Barzal Trade Rumors Heat Up | NHL News

NHL News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 3, 2026 · 1m

The Islanders eye a massive cap windfall next offseason, but this summer they’re squeezed—GM Mathieu Darche is already moving fast to upgrade for 2026-27. With key players locked in long-term, trading star Mathew Barzal—whose $9.15M cap hit runs until 2031—could be on the table. And guess who’s itching to land him? The Chicago Blackhawks, whose young phenom Connor Bedard has openly called Barzal his idol. Bedard, the 2023 No. 1 pick, already commands attention despite Chicago’s struggles—and adding Barzal could be the move that turns their franchise around. But don’t count on it: Barzal’s…