By IHM Team | IHM Rumors Insider | November 2, 2025
Leafs Moving on from Kampf, Oilers Shopping Stecher, Schmaltz Talks Stall and IHM Sources Say Malkin Playing His Final NHL Season
The NHL rumor mill is roaring as contenders and rebuilders move into the next phase of the season. From Toronto’s cap surgery to Edmonton reshuffling its blue line, this week brings significant whispers and one potentially era defining note from IHM sources.
Evgeni Malkin Expected to Retire After Season IHM Exclusive
According to internal discussions and those close to the player, Evgeni Malkin is strongly leaning toward retiring at season’s end.
Sources indicate the legendary forward is still uncertain about post career plans, exploring hockey media, development roles, and business options.
What’s clear he believes this is his last run.
A future Hall of Famer and one of the defining Russian players in NHL history, Malkin’s transition will be a storyline all year in Pittsburgh with emotion and legacy at the forefront.
Kampf “Done” in Toronto
Toronto placed David Kampf on waivers, sent him to the AHL, and now, per multiple insiders, the two sides may be headed toward a contract termination if a trade cannot be found.
Toronto isn’t chasing assets they just need the $2.4M cap relief. Kampf wants NHL ice time. If nothing materializes, a mutual exit remains possible.
Key takeaway: Toronto is aggressively clearing cap space.
Oilers Preparing to Move Troy Stecher
Healthy players are returning. The roster picture is tightening.
Insiders believe Troy Stecher is the odd man out in Edmonton.
He has value, he’s respected, and GM Jeff Jackson wants to do right by the player. Expect a soft landing trade, potentially to an injury hit team seeking depth.
Schmaltz and Utah Mammoth Far Apart on New Deal
Nick Schmaltz’s breakout year couldn’t come at a worse negotiating time for Utah.
He’s in the league scoring elite tier and wants to be paid for it. Talks are ongoing, but far apart. Utah has cap space, but how much they want to spend is the question.
Market whispers say 9-10M AAV would be needed.
Vancouver Hesitant on Sherwood Extension
Kiefer Sherwood is smashing expectations again and the market is noticing.
The Canucks love him but he’s headed for a major raise from $1.5M.
Talks haven’t even started.
Leverage 100 percent Sherwood’s side right now.
Analysts say deal likely reaches 5M plus AAV.
Cale Makar’s Mega Deal Coming
With Necas locked in, the Avs now face their biggest piece Cale Makar.
He will not take the max cap hit but Colorado must get creative to remain competitive.
Insiders project 12M plus AAV, term 8 years.
Samsonov Leaves NHL, Signs in KHL
Ilya Samsonov signs with HC Sochi, seeking a reset after a turbulent NHL stretch.
Not necessarily the end of his NHL career but that door is closing for now.
Chicago and Bedard Talks Paused
Not stalled strategically paused.
Chicago wants eight years. Bedard camp open to five to maximize future earning window.
Projected number 10-12.5M AAV.
Coach Mark Comment
Consistency is the currency in contract seasons. Some players rise under pressure, others tighten up. The teams that manage emotions and cap realities best will shape the playoff field. Watch the organizations that show patience and clarity, not panic.