Let’s dive into the latest developments from around the NHL, where trade talks are heating up and one legendary goaltender has officially closed the door on a return. From Marc-André Fleury’s status to the Minnesota Wild’s aggressive pursuit of a top-line center, and the price tags attached to Justin Faulk and Evander Kane, there’s a lot to unpack.
Marc-André Fleury Shuts the Door on NHL Comeback
Marc-André Fleury has been a topic of conversation all season, despite hanging up the pads. From suiting up in a Penguins preseason game to making appearances around the Minnesota Wild, the future Hall of Famer’s presence has kept the rumor mill spinning. But any hopes of a late-season return can be put to rest.
Fleury made it clear this week that he’s not planning a comeback. Speaking candidly, he admitted that while a few teams reached out, he turned them down.
“Probably not… a couple teams asked. But I just said, ‘No.’
It’s tough for some reasons,” Fleury said.
His appearance at Wild practice and involvement in a ceremonial puck drop stirred up speculation, but it turns out it was just that - ceremonial. At this point, it looks like Fleury is content with retirement, even as teams continue to check in.
Wild All-In, Eyeing Centers Ahead of Deadline
The Minnesota Wild have already made a splash by acquiring Quinn Hughes, and while there's no extension in place yet, the move signals one thing: they’re going for it. With the playoffs in sight and a roster that’s starting to take shape, Minnesota is now turning its focus to the middle of the ice.
The Wild are actively exploring options to upgrade at center - a position that could be the missing piece in their Cup push. Names like Vincent Trocheck, Charlie Coyle, and Brayden Schenn have surfaced as potential targets. Each brings a different style, but all would slot in as reliable, playoff-tested additions.
Trocheck could become available as the Rangers pivot into a rebuild. Coyle might be on the move if the Blue Jackets decide to sell. And Schenn, a proven playoff performer, could be an intriguing fit if the Blues are open to dealing within the conference.
What makes Minnesota particularly dangerous in the trade market is their asset pool. Jesper Wallstedt, their highly touted goaltending prospect, is reportedly on the table in the right deal. Beyond that, they’ve got a deep pipeline - Charlie Stramel, Carson Lambos, Danila Yurov - and future draft capital to sweeten any offer.
Bottom line: if the Wild want someone, they’ve got the pieces to make it happen. And judging by their recent moves, they’re not waiting around.
Price Tags Revealed for Justin Faulk and Evander Kane
Trade deadline season always brings surprises, and this year’s market is no different. We’re starting to get a clearer sense of what teams are asking for - and in some cases, the price may be lower than expected.
In Vancouver, the Canucks are looking to move Evander Kane, and the asking price is a third-round pick with some salary retention. That’s a manageable cost for a team looking to add scoring depth without committing to a long-term deal.
There’s also flexibility - a comparable offer that includes a prospect could get it done. The Kings and Stars are among the teams linked to Kane, but there’s interest coming from the Eastern Conference as well.
Meanwhile, in St. Louis, the Blues are shopping Justin Faulk.
They’re aiming for a return similar to what Calgary got for Rasmus Andersson - a strong benchmark, though some might argue Faulk doesn’t quite carry the same trade value at this stage. Still, he’s been a steady presence on the Blues’ blue line for years, and contenders in need of a veteran defenseman could see him as a stabilizing piece.
Final Thoughts
With the deadline approaching, teams are starting to show their hands. Minnesota is clearly in win-now mode, Fleury is officially staying retired, and the trade market is beginning to take shape. Whether it’s a blockbuster or a depth move, the next few weeks promise to be full of action - and the chessboard is already shifting.