Nugent – Hopkins’ third game, and the Panthers and Leaf Rumors – Hockey Writer – NHL Rumors

Ryan Nugent-Hopkins will be the game-time decision for the Edmonton Oilers in a NHL rumor today. He was on the ice on Monday morning and would participate in the warm-up, but would he play? Meanwhile, Toronto Maple Leafs are almost involved in a big three-team blockbuster, and Max Pacioretty tends to return. Finally, are Sam Bennett and Brad Marchand both looking to return to the Florida Panthers?

Nugent-Hopkins Ice on Monday morning

Nugent-Hopkins missed Sunday’s practice and was ruled as Game 3 match time. He was on the ice on Monday but looked a little temporary to the optional skateboard.

The report indicated that he was late and gently pushed the puck past. According to head coach Kris Knoblauch, the veteran forward will remain the decision of the game time.

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Nugent-Hopkins flew in 18 games with 18 points (5 goals, 13 assists) in the playoffs. He skated for nearly 26 minutes in two overtime losses in Game 2, and he played his strength, the availability of strong play and penalty kills made him particularly valuable, especially considering that Zach Hyman lost him with wrist surgery for the rest of the playoffs.

It is not clear when Nugent-Hopkins will be injured, but Monday’s listing on the ice is a positive step towards his game 3.

Bennett and Marchand want to be with Black Panther

Although he speculated that he would test the market for looking for a market for home contracts, Sam Bennett is expected to be with the Florida Panthers, according to James Mirtle of Track and Field. Mirtle reported in a recent article that the 27-year-old loved to play in Florida, and the organization shared the sentiment.

Although Bennett can command at least $8 million a year, he may be willing to enjoy a discount in his hometown to stay in Florida. If so, attention will shift to other major free agents, including longtime Leopard Aaron Ekblad and veteran winger Brad Marchand.

Marchand may also want to stay, but will consider other options. “Marchand praised the organization for its professionalism behind the scenes – it is also one of six teams in the U.S. without state income taxes,” wrote ESPN’s Greg Wyshynski.

When he added, he quoted the striker:

“Some teams are absolutely important. It doesn’t matter to every player, but when you deal with people who choose between multiple teams, it definitely works,” Marchand said. “If you have two teams that offer the same contract, you will choose the team with fewer taxes.”

Max Pacioretty tends to return to maple leaves

According to Mirtle, Max Pacioretty appears to return to the NHL next season and wants to rejoin the Toronto Maple Leafs after attending the NHL Scouting Combine last weekend in Buffalo.

Mitel wrote:

“One good news over the past few days is that after the Leaf said that after Leaf expressed great interest, UFA MAX PACIORETTY tended to return, which was a very interesting thing, and he left a huge interest after the playoffs.”

Source – “Nine of the funniest teams in NHL free agents: What I heard from Buzzy Draft Combine” – James Mirtle – Track and Field – 06/09/2025

He also reported that Maple Leaf was almost finished with a blockbuster trade involving three teams that had trade deadlines. The deal would have brought Mitch Marner to Vegas Golden Knights, while Mikko Rantanen came to Toronto, where Carolina acquired multiple assets.