NHL Rumors July 2026: Canadiens, Predators and Flyers Outlook

The Montreal Canadiens showed no serious interest in Anthony Mantha despite earlier rumors circulating in mid-July 2026.

Predators roster math forces moves

Nashville Predators new general manager Chris MacFarland inherited a 26-player roster after adding seven players via free agency and trades with the Avalanche and Stars. The team must reach the NHL-mandated 23-player limit before opening night. MacFarland stated on the first day of free agency that salary shedding would be required.

Ilya Lyubushkin remains the most movable piece after his acquisition from Dallas. His physical style could fetch a late-round pick. The 30-year-old defenseman carries a $3.5 million cap hit for one more season.

Jonathan Marchessault posted declining underlying metrics across five seasons. His $5.5 million salary for three remaining years makes a trade difficult. A team acquiring him would need to absorb the full amount.

Joakim Kemell, the 22-year-old former first-round pick, has yet to translate offense to the NHL level. A return of a third-round pick or comparable prospect appears realistic.

Canadiens and Flyers stay quiet

Marco D’Amico reported that Montreal never submitted a legitimate offer for Mantha. The Canadiens instead prioritized internal depth and draft capital retention.

Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Jamie Drysdale could receive a three- or four-year deal averaging $6.25 million to $6.5 million. The 24-year-old logged 68 games in 2025-26 while averaging 21 minutes per game.

Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin has not rescinded his trade request following Steve Yzerman’s departure as general manager. No roster upgrades occurred during the first two weeks of July to improve playoff odds.

Outlook for July 16 through training camp

The Predators hold three clear trade candidates whose departures would solve both roster and cap constraints. The Canadiens and Flyers hold no comparable external targets at present.

Unless MacFarland completes two of the three projected deals before September 15, Nashville will enter camp with excess bodies and face compliance buyout discussions.