Bryan Rust navigates a rising trade rumor tide as his no-trade clause expires and Kyle Dubas says he would look at anything. The Penguins face structural questions, and Rust’s name keeps surfacing in a market where teams weigh cap, aging assets, and fit. Chinakhov’s situation amplifies the chatter around Edmonton, too, with Oilers balancing space and depth.

Edmonton’s goalie setup—Skinner’s development, a new goalie coach, and Janmark’s unsettled roster slot—along with Hyman’s delayed return and Tolvanen’s long-term Seattle link, threads a league-wide pattern: contracts, upside, and the risk of a cluttered market shaping fantasy value early in the season.

Yegor Chinakhov's situation with the Columbus Blue Jackets has escalated, prompting speculation about a potential trade. After struggling with a back injury that sidelined him for 40 games last season, Chinakhov's relationship with the team's coaching staff has soured. His agent has announced that Chinakhov is open to a trade, and the New Jersey Devils may be a suitable landing spot, especially given their need for scoring after Tyler Toffoli's departure.

Chinakhov previously demonstrated his scoring ability, posting a 25-goal pace in his last healthy season. The Devils are looking for ways to revitalize their offensive lineup and Chinakhov could thrive alongside playmakers like Jack Hughes and Jesper Bratt. A trade could be acquired at a low cost, similar to Matias Maccelli's move to the Toronto Maple Leafs for a conditional third-round pick.