In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the Nashville Predators are preparing for a major front-office change, Marc-André Fleury’s rumored NHL return appears unlikely, the Montreal Canadiens are reassessing their interest in Nazem Kadri, and the Toronto Maple Leafs receive crucial reassurance from Auston Matthews—while Artemi Panarin’s trade market continues to take shape.
Barry Trotz Stepping Down
Barry Trotz is set to step down as general manager of the Nashville Predators, though he will remain in place until a successor is named. With a replacement expected within the next month, Nashville now faces uncertainty heading into the trade deadline. The Predators had climbed within four points of a playoff spot after a slow start, making their direction especially unclear.
Related: Maple Leafs and Rielly Could Both Benefit From Parting Ways
Several core names—Ryan O’Reilly, Steven Stamkos, Jonathan Marchessault, Michael Bunting, among others—have surfaced in rumors this season. However, it’s hard to imagine a departing GM making franchise-altering moves.
The next month won’t just be about finding a new GM; it will also be about ensuring the team develops a game plan for the deadline.
The good news is that Trotz’s leaving is not health-related.
Fleury Content in Retirement
Despite persistent rumors linking Marc-André Fleury to a potential NHL comeback, Penguins insider Josh Yohe reports that the veteran goalie appears content in retirement. After speaking with Fleury and those close to him, Yohe believes a return isn’t in the cards, even as goaltending issues around the league continue to spark speculation.
Yohe writes:
“I’ve spoken with Fleury and several people close to him in recent weeks, and while I don’t doubt he misses life in the NHL, I don’t think we’ll see him playing in the league again. The Flower seems very content in retirement, and I take him at his word.”
source – ‘What I’m hearing about the Penguins: Bryan Rust suspension, Marc-André Fleury return’ – Josh Yohe – The Athletic – 02/02/2026
Fleury, 40, went 14–9–1 with Minnesota last season and has been loosely connected to teams like Edmonton, Montreal, and Vegas amid their struggles in net.
Canadiens Cool on Kadri as Roster Picture Changes
According to a report by Marco D’Amico of RG.org, the Montreal Canadiens explored Nazem Kadri earlier this season, but league sources say that interest has cooled. Montreal is not on Kadri’s no-trade list, and at one point, the fit made sense. However, several changes this season for the Habs have altered the plans.
Nazem Kadri, Calgary Flames (Sergei Belski-Imagn Images)
Oliver Kapanen’s emergence into a top-six role, Michael Hage’s progression, and the acquisition of Phillip Danault stabilized Montreal’s center depth. The Canadiens are now believed to be prioritizing a scoring winger instead.
Kadri remains a coveted deadline name, with Minnesota, Carolina, and Detroit viewed as serious teams to watch if Calgary retains salary.
Matthews Commits to Maple Leafs
Amid Toronto’s struggles, Auston Matthews delivered important reassurance to the Maple Leafs. According to Elliotte Friedman, Toronto recently checked in with Matthews’ camp to confirm he has no desire to play elsewhere next season.
The response was that nothing has changed from his end. Matthews remains fully invested in the organization, easing fears that the captain might reconsider his future as the Leafs weigh potential seller moves.
Panarin Market Takes Shape
Meanwhile, Friedman also outlined Artemi Panarin’s evolving trade market. Panarin is seeking an extension as part of any deal, narrowing his list of realistic suitors.
The catch is that he wants a contract extension. Teams willing to extend him include Washington, Los Angeles, San Jose, Florida, Detroit, and Carolina. Colorado, Dallas, Anaheim, and Carolina have also expressed interest but have not committed to an extension.
With Panarin sharing that he’d rather not move twice, the Capitals, Sharks, and Red Wings currently stand out as the most plausible landing spots.
