The NHL rumor mill is spinning faster than ever, and today’s developments have fans and insiders glued to their screens.

In the heart of Texas, the Pittsburgh Penguins’ stars celebrated on the ice, but off the rink, whispers of seismic change are swirling—changes that could reshape not only the Penguins but also the Montreal Canadiens and several other teams.

At the center of it all is Carey Price, whose contract has suddenly become the hottest topic in hockey. With a major bonus payment just processed and Kent Hughes working the phones, speculation is mounting about a blockbuster deal that could drop at any moment.

Why are the Chicago Blackhawks, San Jose Sharks, and—most shockingly—the Pittsburgh Penguins linked to Price’s contract? What does this mean for the futures of legendary names like Kris Letang, Erik Karlsson, and Sidney Crosby?

Insiders hint that the Penguins’ interest could trigger a chain reaction of veteran trades, but the full story remains shrouded in mystery.

As September begins, the stakes have never been higher, and the next move could send shockwaves through the league. What’s really happening behind the scenes, and who will be the next star on the move? Keep reading to find out.

Apr 5, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Kris Letang (58) and ight wing Rutger McGroarty (2) and center Evgeni Malkin (71) and defenseman Erik Karlsson (65) celebrate after Penguins center Sidney Crosby (87) scores a power play goal against the Dallas Stars during the first period at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

All eyes are on Carey Price’s contract today. Several sources expect Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens to trade Price’s contract as early as today (September 1st), or otherwise in the coming days.

It’s a deal that is currently in the works behind the scenes, and Kent Hughes is working the phones hard today.

Why September 1st?

Because today was the date of Carey Price’s last big bonus payment.

“September 1, 2025.

We had circled this date on the calendar.

Carey Price is, since this morning, richer by $5,500,000.” – Marc-Olivier Beaudoin

According to these same sources, three teams have indeed been targeted to acquire Price’s contract: the Chicago Blackhawks, the San Jose Sharks and the Pittsburgh Penguins!

While the first two names make perfect sense, the Penguins’ involvement is a bit more surprising.

That said, we now know the reason why Pittsburgh would be interested in Carey’s contract.

The Pittsburgh Penguins would acquire Carey Price’s contract in order to trade away other veterans

Wow.

Marco D’Amico: Re Carey Price rumours: “Another surprising team that was suggested..the Pittsburgh Penguins; although they are $12M above the salary cap floor..the Penguins could strip it down early and trade some vets” – RG

So don’t be surprised-especially if they do acquire Carey Price-if the Penguins immediately follow it up by trading names like Kris Letang, Erik Karlsson, Bryan Rust, Rickard Rakell, and others.

Exciting times ahead!

The next few days promise to be extremely interesting on the NHL trade market, especially for Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens.

I wonder if one or more of these veterans could interest Hughes.