NHL rumors: Canadiens prospect stays in Russia, Senators eye UFAs, Sharks plan blue line overhaul

The latest NHL rumors highlight key developments across three teams entering the offseason. Montreal Canadiens prospect Alexander Zharovsky will remain in Russia for at least another season, focusing on physical development.[1][2] Ottawa Senators general manager Steve Staios has not ruled out re-signing any of their pending unrestricted free agents, including veterans like Claude Giroux. Meanwhile, San Jose Sharks GM Mike Grier takes a measured approach to contract extensions for stars Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith while prioritizing defensive improvements.

These updates come amid playoff conclusions and draft preparations, shaping team strategies for 2026-27.

Montreal Canadiens prospect Alexander Zharovsky commits to another year in Russia

Gold Star Hockey Management Group confirmed that Alexander Zharovsky, the Canadiens’ skilled forward prospect, will stay with his KHL club for at least one more season.[3] Drafted 34th overall in 2025, Zharovsky impressed in his first full KHL campaign with Salavat Yulaev Ufa, showcasing offensive flair alongside childhood friend Ivan Demidov.[4]

The decision allows Zharovsky to build strength during the offseason. Canadiens management views this as optimal for his growth, avoiding a premature North American transition. Scouts praise his playmaking and shot, positioning him as a potential top-six winger.

Zharovsky’s KHL stats highlighted his promise, including power-play contributions. Staying abroad aligns with successful paths of other Russian prospects. Montreal continues to stock its pipeline patiently.

This move echoes recent Canadiens success with imports like Cole Caufield, who recently hit 50 goals. Fans await Zharovsky’s eventual arrival, but development trumps haste.

Ottawa Senators GM Steve Staios leaves door open for all pending UFAs

Steve Staios spoke candidly about the Senators’ unrestricted free agents after their playoff exit. “I have not closed the door on anyone. Spoke to each one of them,” Staios said. “It’s fresh right now…think we all decided to take a little bit of time and reflect, including my conversation with G (Giroux).”[5]

The list includes veterans Claude Giroux, Lars Eller, Nick Jensen, Nick Cousins, and Dennis Gilbert. Giroux, a key leader, remains a priority if he continues playing. Ottawa’s sweep by Carolina has sparked broader speculation, including on captain Brady Tkachuk, though Staios dismissed trade talk as nonsense—for more on Senators’ postseason fallout, see this analysis.

Re-signing decisions hinge on cap space and team direction. Staios emphasized reflection before action. Depth players like Cousins and Gilbert could return for grit.

The Senators aim to blend experience with youth. Giroux’s potential return would stabilize the locker room. Fans watch closely as Staios navigates a pivotal summer.

Eller and Jensen provide defensive reliability. Ottawa’s blue line needs bolstering regardless. These talks set the tone for contention pushes.

San Jose Sharks take patient approach with Celebrini and Smith extensions

Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith become extension-eligible after July 1, but GM Mike Grier sees no urgency. Both expressed love for San Jose, with Celebrini stating, “I want to commit to this team and being here.” They have one year left on deals, buying time.[6][7]

Only Dmitry Orlov and Sam Dickinson are signed defensemen for next year. Restricted free agent Shakir Mukhamadullin awaits a deal, while Mario Ferraro, Vincent Desharnais, John Klingberg, and Nick Leddy hit UFA status. Grier eyes Collin Graff as a future piece.

Sharks’ blue line requires multifaceted upgrades. “It’s probably a little bit of everything,” Grier noted. “I think we need to be able to move the puck a little bit better, we need to be harder around our net, and we need to be able to kill more plays in the D-zone.”

Ferraro desires a return but may test free agency for better value. Recent moves like signing Eric Pohlkamp signal prospect focus—check Sharks’ latest entry-level deal. Celebrini’s award buzz, including Ted Lindsay finalist nods, underscores his value.[8]

San Jose balances youth retention with defense rebuild. Cap projections loom large with rising stars. Grier’s caution preserves flexibility.

These rumors signal active offseasons ahead. Montreal invests in overseas growth, Ottawa weighs veteran retention, and San Jose fortifies its core. Expect movement as July nears, impacting 2026-27 races—stay tuned for draft and free agency twists.