NHL Shockwaves: Minnesota Wild and Ottawa Senators Poised for Surprising Moves That Could Change Everything

In the ever-turning carousel of NHL trade talks, the Minnesota Wild’s front office is quietly plotting some intriguing moves at center ice. Bill Guerin, their GM, has been poking around the marketplace, scouting potential acquisitions who might just tip the scales as the Olympic break draws near. Names like Ryan O’Reilly flicker through the whispers — a perfect fit, some say, though the Nashville Predators aren’t exactly ready to let him slip easily. Then there’s Vincent Trocheck, whose connection to Guerin adds a layer of familiarity to this chess match, along with recent checks on Coyle from Columbus. It’s clear the Wild are sharpening their pencils, eyeing every center with intent. Meanwhile, a separate franchise in Ottawa is turning heads with its own defensive flirtations, engaging the Calgary Flames about MacKenzie Weegar. A player who brings seasoned leadership, grit, and a fair share of ice-time stability — all qualities the Senators desperately seek to bolster their ranks. With these developments, both teams are weaving subtle tapestries of strategy as the trade deadline looms and playoff prospects hang in the balance. LEARN MORE

The Minnesota Wild have checked on some potentially available centers

TSN: Minnesota Wild GM Bill Guerin has been making the rounds and seeing who is available, according to Pierre LeBrun, and it would likely be after the Olympic break.

“I think Ryan O’Reilly would be perfect for Bill Guerin and the Wild. I just don’t know that O’Reilly is available yet. The Predators have been competitive and O’Reilly, I don’t think wants to quit on things there in Nashville. So, I don’t know if he’s actually on the market.

Vincent Trocheck, the Rangers are selling. We just talked about it. Trocheck – Bill Guerin has a connection to him through Team USA. I think that’s a player of interest to Minnesota.

I just mentioned Coyle. I believe the Wild have checked in with Columbus on him. Wherever you see centre between now and March 6, think of Bill Guerin and the Wild, because that’s what they hope to do.”

NHL Rumors: Minnesota Wild and Colorado Avalanche

The Wild will likely be matched up with the Dallas Stars in the first round, and could have the Colorado Avalanche after that.

The Ottawa Senators have spoken with the Calgary Flames about MacKenzie Weegar

Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Citizen: The Ottawa Senators have been looking for a top-four defenseman all season, and sources have said that they have talked to the Calgary Flames about MacKenzie Weegar.

The 32-year-old Weegar is from Ottawa. He carries a $6.25 million cap hit through 2030-31, and he owns a full no-movement clause. It would seem on the surface that he would be okay with a trade to Ottawa.

The Senators did talk to the Flames about Rasmus Andersson, but he wasn’t interested in signing an extension with the Sens.

Ottawa shouldn’t be looking at the rental market, as they may not make the playoffs. Since Weegar has term, it makes sense as they are close with few other tweaks needed.

NHL Rumors: Predators, Maple Leafs, and the Blue Jackets

A league executive on Weegar and the Sens.

“The Senators were in on Andersson, and Weegar would be a fit. He brings some grit and some good leadership. He’s a good player who can help them. He’s competitive, and he can play on the power play. He could be a good fit.”

Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? Rumor roundups and hot topics from around the league. We’re also posting some stuff on Instagram.