NHL rumors: Toronto Maple Leafs and Winnipeg Jets

The NHL offseason is heating up with intriguing developments for the Toronto Maple Leafs and Winnipeg Jets. Semyon Der-Arguchintsev, a former Leafs prospect, is eyeing a return to the organization after two seasons in the KHL. Meanwhile, the Jets hold the No. 7 pick in the 2026 draft and face pivotal decisions on trades and roster building.[1][2]

Both teams are navigating uncertainty, with Toronto awaiting a new GM following Brad Treliving’s departure and Winnipeg plotting ways to elevate their core. These rumors could reshape their lineups heading into next season.

Semyon Der-Arguchintsev eyes Maple Leafs return

Semyon Der-Arguchintsev’s agent, Shumi Babaev, confirmed interest in rejoining the Maple Leafs organization next season. The Russian forward spent the last two years in the KHL with Dynamo, where his contract expires on May 31. No extension talks have occurred yet.[3]

Babaev revealed they discussed a possible return with former GM Brad Treliving. Now, everything hinges on Toronto naming a new GM. Der-Arguchintsev posted six goals and 30 assists in 59 games this season, showcasing playmaking ability.[2]

“I believe Semyon is ready for the NHL,” Babaev said. “Of course, he has to be ready for the possibility of playing in the AHL, but there is no point in going there just for that. We are talking about a one-way contract with a salary closer to the league minimum.” This aligns with Toronto’s need for depth forwards amid front office changes.Toronto Maple Leafs front office and management overhaul

Der-Arguchintsev was once a promising Leafs prospect before heading overseas. His KHL success suggests maturity and skill growth. A return could provide low-risk upside, especially on a minimum deal.

The timing fits Toronto’s rebuild mode post-playoff miss. With Treliving out since late March, candidates like John Chayka are in the mix. Der-Arguchintsev’s agent remains optimistic, but patience is key until the GM is set.[4]

Fans recall his potential from earlier drafts. If signed, he might compete for a bottom-six role or AHL seasoning. More details should emerge soon.Agent says Semyon Der-Arguchintsev could return to Maple Leafs

Winnipeg Jets’ draft and trade crossroads

The Winnipeg Jets sit at No. 7 in the 2026 draft lottery, sparking debate on whether to select talent or package the pick. Experts advise drafting high-end prospects over chasing a second-line center or Dustin Byfuglien clone. Right-shot defensemen like Keaton Verhoeff and Daxon Rudolph, or centers Tynan Lawrence and Caleb Malhotra, could be targets.[5]

Trading the pick for young stars on entry-level deals makes sense. Names like Leo Carlsson from the Ducks or Jason Robertson of the Stars have surfaced in hypotheticals. Winnipeg’s Buffalo Sabres 2027 second-rounder, plus prospects such as Brad Lambert, Nikita Chibrikov, Colby Barlow or Sascha Boumedienne, might lure secondary scorers.Winnipeg Jets news and rumors

Bigger moves could involve goaltender Connor Hellebuyck. A trade might net a top-four defenseman or second-line center, though comparables are scarce. Would the Florida Panthers offer Anton Lundell and No. 8 pick? Recent speculation has intensified around his future amid contract talks.[6]

Kyle Connor’s full no-movement clause complicates deals, but packages echoing Matthew Tkachuk-for-Jonathan Huberdeau have been floated. Trading Josh Morrissey or Mark Scheifele seems unlikely without clear upgrades. The Jets’ core is strong but needs bolstering.

• Draft options: Verhoeff (D), Rudolph (D), Lawrence (C), Malhotra (C).
• Trade assets: No. 7 pick, Sabres 2027 2nd, Lambert, Chibrikov.
• Blockbuster ideas: Hellebuyck for Lundell + pick; Connor in multi-piece deals.

Hard to envision proactive sales of stars like Hellebuyck or Connor unless transformative. GM Kevin Cheveldayoff must balance youth infusion with contention pushes. The offseason looms large.Winnipeg Jets offseason outlook

Looking ahead for both teams

These rumors highlight opportunity amid transition for the Maple Leafs and Jets. Toronto’s GM hire will dictate Der-Arguchintsev’s fate and broader strategy. Winnipeg’s draft choice could define their trajectory.

Staying patient might yield the best results, avoiding rash trades. Fans should watch for GM announcements in Toronto and Jets’ pre-draft maneuvers. Expect fireworks as the summer progresses.