NHL Rumors: Cassidy to Maple Leafs, Babcock Secret, Larkin Trade List Grows, Jenner’s Future – Hockey Writers – NHL Rumors

In today’s NHL rumor game, the Toronto Maple Leafs may be waiting for a big-name coaching option, the Edmonton Oilers’ coaching search is officially out with uncertainty surrounding Mike Babcock, the Detroit Red Wings are looking for flexibility in Dylan Larkin’s trade talks, and two key Columbus coaches may be missing out on key pieces for Columbus.

Maple Leafs Can Wait for Bruce Cassidy

The Toronto Maple Leafs may not be done exploring coaching options just yet. Bruce Cassidy has reportedly expressed interest in talking to an organization (really, any) about their vacancy, but only if the Vegas Golden Knights give permission—something they have so far refused to do.

Toronto has already cast a wide net, talking to dozens of candidates and narrowing the field to a few finalists. However, Jonas Siegel of The Athletic writes:

“There’s nothing wrong with waiting a little longer when you’re new Leafs manager John Chayka, who fired Craig Berube last month. Free agency doesn’t start for another two and a half weeks, and as Chayka said, the team won’t be operating under any “made up timeline” in terms of hiring the next coach.”

source – ‘Bruce Cassidy turned on the Maple Leafs. They should wait for a chance to speak’ – Jonas Siegel – The Athletic – 06-11-2026

There is a growing belief that Vegas can bounce back once its playoff run is over, especially since Toronto is an Eastern Conference team. Cassidy is arguably the most successful coach around, and waiting a little longer to see if that door opens might be worth it.

Oilers Pick Babcock, But There’s A Problem

The Edmonton Oilers’ coaching search is getting tougher. What once seemed like a potential fit for Mike Babcock has now been overshadowed by the NHL’s investigation into his departure from Columbus. It is reported that the Oilers players talked for a long time with Babcock and told him more about his past life. They left the meeting saying, “This is our boy.” However, the NHL may have something to say about it. The feeling is that there are accounts of other cases with this cell phone issue that everyone knows about.

With uncertainty growing at that position—and other candidates like Peter Laviolette already off the board—the Oilers may need to rotate quickly. There is a feeling that the NHL’s investigation into Babcock will reveal some troubling news. The Oilers may have little choice but to walk away.

One interesting name that could emerge as a running back option is veteran coach Darryl Sutter. Sutter, a two-time Stanley Cup winner, has been out of the league since 2023 but brings experience and a hard-nosed approach. It would be another divisive option, but would likely come with far less scrutiny than Babcock.

The Oilers could also see Tortorella being offered an extension in Vegas. If June 30 hits, Tortorella is free to sign anywhere.

Larkin Trade Talks Extend Beyond Real Teams

The Detroit Red Wings are reportedly seeking more flexibility in potential trade talks for Dylan Larkin. Initially limited to a short list (three groups) of preferred locations, that list may now be expanding.

GM Steve Yzerman has asked multiple teams and other teams have called Detroit looking for an interview. Clubs like the Dallas Stars and Anaheim Ducks have been loosely linked, and the possibility of a third team stepping in could further complicate negotiations. Pierre LeBrun writes, “Yzerman went back to Brisson and asked to expand their original roster to three teams, and my sense is that Brisson accepted that to some degree. So I don’t think we’re still dealing with the Minnesota Wild, Vegas Golden Knights and Florida Panthers.”

The wider the list, the easier it would be for Yzerman to get a return that meets expectations. For now, the situation remains fluid.

Green Jackets Face Tough UFA Decisions

The Columbus Blue Jackets have important decisions to make regarding several unrestricted free agents, including Mason Marchment and Boone Jenner.

According to Aaron Portzline of The Athletic, Marchment is believed to be aiming for a significant payday, making him extremely difficult to keep. Jenner’s situation should also be considered after the recent agent change, which may indicate a desire for a long-term deal—something Columbus may be reluctant to offer.

Although there is still time for negotiations, the Blue Jackets may be at risk of losing both players. Watch for the Edmonton Oilers to show some interest in Jenner if he is available.