NHL Rumblings: Nylander's Health, McDavid's Hesitation, and Trade Watch on Hughes and Formenton
We’re entering that stretch of the NHL season when little things start to feel like big things - and for some of the league’s top players and franchises, there are a few storylines worth keeping a close eye on. From William Nylander’s uncharacteristic play to Connor McDavid’s growing reluctance to shoot, and the ongoing questions surrounding Quinn Hughes and Alex Formenton, there’s no shortage of intrigue around the league right now.
Nylander’s Not Quite Right - and the Leafs Know It
William Nylander has been the engine behind the Maple Leafs’ offense this season - consistent, dynamic, and flat-out productive. But lately, something’s been off.
After missing four games - three with a lower-body injury and one due to illness - Nylander hasn’t looked like the same player. He’s still putting up points (32 in 22 games), but the eye test tells a different story. He’s looked hesitant, shied away from contact, and hasn’t shown the same burst that’s made him one of the most dangerous wingers in the league.
TSN’s Mike Johnson pointed out that Nylander doesn’t appear to be at full strength, and practice footage showed him taking an awkward spill that clearly left him uncomfortable. Nylander’s brushing it off, saying there’s "nothing to worry about," but the Leafs can’t afford to have their top scorer playing at anything less than peak form - especially in a season where the margins are razor-thin.
This isn’t panic time in Toronto, but it is a moment to monitor. Nylander’s production is still there, but the Leafs need the version of him who can take over games - not just contribute on the scoresheet.
McDavid’s Frustration Boils Over - and So Does Edmonton’s
The Oilers dropped a 1-0 heartbreaker to the Wild, and while the scoreboard told one story, Connor McDavid’s reaction told another. He was visibly frustrated postgame - and not just because of the loss.
The issue? He’s not pulling the trigger.
Twice during the game, McDavid carved through Minnesota’s defense like only he can, only to dish off low-percentage backhand passes instead of firing from prime scoring areas. Both plays fizzled, and afterward, he admitted the team “passed some away,” adding, “myself more than anybody…”
This isn’t a one-off. It’s becoming a pattern.
For a guy who once lit the lamp 64 times in a season, McDavid’s reluctance to shoot - especially in high-leverage moments - is becoming a real concern. Internally, there’s frustration in Edmonton.
Management knows they need their superstar to be assertive, to take over games, to finish. And when you lose a game 1-0, it’s hard not to look at the chances that were passed up.
McDavid’s still one of the most electrifying players in the world. But right now, the Oilers need him to be more than a playmaker. They need him to be a difference-maker - and that starts with putting the puck on net.
Formenton’s Future in Limbo - Could an Offer Sheet Be in Play?
In Ottawa, the Alex Formenton situation remains murky. The winger missed the NHL’s signing deadline, meaning he won’t play this season. That leaves the Senators holding his rights - but for how much longer?
According to league insiders, the most likely scenario now is that Formenton signs an offer sheet this offseason. If it comes in under $1 million, Ottawa won’t receive any compensation - and they’re reportedly okay with that. The team could also petition the league to renounce his rights entirely, but that would require NHL approval.
As it stands, the Senators hold his rights until July 1, 2027, but this situation feels like it’s trending toward a quiet resolution - either via offer sheet or a mutual parting of ways.
Quinn Hughes Trade? Not Likely - But Don’t Rule It Out
There’s been chatter around Quinn Hughes, but don’t expect a blockbuster just yet. According to league sources, a trade involving the Canucks’ captain is highly unlikely this season - but that doesn’t mean the door is completely closed.
If Vancouver falls out of playoff contention, things could change quickly. Hughes has been linked to New Jersey in the past, but lately, Detroit is emerging as a team to watch. The Red Wings may have the kind of pieces Vancouver would need to even consider moving a player of Hughes’ caliber.
For now, it’s just smoke - but if the Canucks’ season starts to slide, don’t be surprised if the fire follows.
Seguin Sidelined Long-Term with ACL Injury
Tough blow in Dallas: Tyler Seguin is out long-term with an ACL injury. That’s a significant loss for the Stars, who’ve relied on Seguin’s offensive contributions early this season. With 17 points in 27 games, he was producing at a solid clip - and his absence will be felt both on the scoresheet and in the locker room.
Dallas will need its depth to step up in a big way, especially in a tight Western Conference race where every point matters.
Bottom Line
From injury concerns to trade whispers, the NHL’s early-season storylines are starting to take shape - and they’re only going to intensify as we head into the winter grind. Whether it’s Nylander’s health, McDavid’s mindset, or the future of players like Hughes and Formenton, these aren’t just footnotes - they’re the kind of developments that can shape a season.