It was a quiet week in the NHL, highlighted by the potential for a new Texas-based expansion team by December, targeting a 2029-30 debut. Blue Jackets goaltender Elvis Merzlikins underwent shoulder surgery, putting his season start in jeopardy. Ducks winger Cutter Gauthier rejected a four-year, $52MM offer after teammate Leo Carlsson’s big contract, while Anaheim added prospect Cruz Lucius from Pittsburgh. Additionally, Canadiens defenseman Adam Engstrom is attracting trade interest as he seeks a full-time NHL role.
