NHL Rumors: Maple Leafs plans, Senators looking for defense, Oilers Howard trade rumors – Hockey Writers – NHL Rumors
In today’s NHL Rumor Digest, the Toronto Maple Leafs and general manager Brad Trelive hinted that no major changes will be expected despite a rocky start. Meanwhile, the need to make a move isn’t imminent, but the Edmonton Oilers could face a key decision on top prospect Isaac Howard. Finally, the Ottawa Senators are exploring trade options to shore up their blue line following a significant loss.
Maple leaves don’t really change
Despite growing noise surrounding the Toronto Maple Leafs’ early-season struggles, general manager Brad Treliving made clear Tuesday that sweeping changes won’t be forthcoming. The general manager said he will continue to look for solutions internally and externally.
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Trelevan publicly acknowledged the team’s performance issues, stressing that “we weren’t where we wanted to be or where we envisioned” and taking responsibility for the slow start. Meanwhile, the general manager expressed unwavering confidence in head coach Craig Berube and put an end to any discussions about replacing him. “Craig didn’t become a bad coach overnight,” Treliving said.
Treliving criticized Toronto’s identity, calling it “too generic,” and he urged the team to “dig deep” and commit to work immediately. As for potential deals, he warned against quick fixes. “You don’t trade your way out of a problem,” he noted, adding that performance, not panic behavior, will determine their direction. The Maple Leafs will continue to look for ways to improve, but there won’t be a major shakeup anytime soon.
Possibility of Ike Howard trade to Oilers
A surprising scene appears in Allan Mitchell’s latest work Competitor: Edmonton Oilers prospect Ike Howard could become a trade chip as the 2025-26 deadline approaches.
While Howard was not sold, he was sent to the AHL where he will get more playing time and a chance to return to the NHL. However, there are obstacles in his path. Edmonton’s front nine is getting tighter with Matthew Savoie joining Connor McDavid in a coveted role. If Savoie stays put and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins slides to third-line center, the door opens for Howard. However, if he underperforms in the AHL and spots are limited, Mitchell suggested things could go in the other direction.
He wrote:
“Another NHL team might have what Edmonton needs at the deadline and have a top prospect like Howard. The Oilers’ top prospects are Savoie and Howard, and Savoie has established himself as the foundation right now.”
Source – “What does Edmonton Oilers rookie Ike Howard need to accomplish in the AHL?” – Alan Mitchell – The Athletic – 11/16/2025
Senators look for trade options
In Ottawa, the Senators find themselves scrambling for defensive depth after losing Thomas Chabot and seeing Donovan Sebrango leave the organization. Reported by Bruce Garrioch ottawa sunGeneral manager Steve Staos has begun scouring the trade market for reinforcements on the left side of the blue line.
He wrote:
“NHL executives confirmed to Postmedia on Saturday that Senators president of hockey operations and general manager Steve Staios has been taking calls to explore available blueline options. The Senators are not looking for a player who can move into the top six; at this point, they are happy to find a left-shooting defenseman who can help their American Hockey League affiliate in Belleville and who can also be called up to the NHL in the event of injury.”
Source – “Ottawa Senators look to NHL for defensive help” – Bruce Garrioch – Ottawa Sun – 11/15/2025
One name Garrioch mentioned was Ville Heinola of the Winnipeg Jets. Heinola, who currently plays for AHL Manitoba, has previously said he welcomes a new start and would be a viable target if the Jets were willing to part with the former first-round pick.
The Senators made a move on Monday, acquiring guard Dennis Gilbert from the Philadelphia Flyers in exchange for guard Maxence Gaynett.
