Contract negotiations between the Calgary Flames and restricted free agent Connor Zary have hit a standstill, raising questions about the lack of urgency to finalize a deal. Zary's ice time has noticeably decreased following the Flames' acquisitions of Joel Farabee and Morgan Frost, complicating his situation further. Meanwhile, defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov is garnering attention as a potential target for the New York Rangers, should he enter free agency, as reports suggest he would favor a move to the Big Apple.

As the NHL draft approaches, teams like the Sharks are rumored to be considering various prospects, although some discussions have cooled. The Blackhawks appear set to retain their No. 3 overall pick despite trade inquiries from teams including the Rangers, Sabres, and Flyers. The Kings, holding the No. 24 pick, are also exploring trade options to secure an additional second-round pick.