Duffer’s Dabbles: Red Wings Expected To Be Suitors For Maple Leafs Zach Hyman

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Zach Hyman is about to become an unrestricted free agent. It appears that the cap-heavy Leafs are going to let him walk. Might Hyman travel west on the 401 and join the Detroit Red Wings?

The Red Wings certainly seem set on trying to make that happen. Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman is one NHL insider touting a Hyman to the Red Wings possibility, while also admitting that many NHL teams will be suitors for Hyman. He’s an excellent 200-foot player, can skate in any role and is difficult to play against. What NHL contender wouldn’t covet such a player?

Where the Wings might have an edge, though is that Hyman and Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin are buddies going back to their college days at Michigan. Will their relationship give the Wings a better chance to land Hyman? Well, it certainly won’t hurt.

Breaking Down Bertuzzi Rumors

Detroit: There’s load of trade rumor speculations that the Toronto Maple Leafs are interested in Tyler Bertuzzi. Our Kevin Allen did a little more digging – here’s the scenario under which Detroit will put Bertuzzi on the NHL trade market. 

Could we see the #Leafs possibly target Tyler Bertuzzi this offseason?@FriedgeHNIC discusses that and more w/ @ScottyMacThinks & @mikezigomanis. #LeafsForever https://t.co/uOWQbbIjdi

— Sportsnet 590 The FAN (@FAN590) July 9, 2021

NYI: Anthony Beauvillier tortured Sidney Crosby and the Penguins’ top line in the playoffs. Otherwise, he had an inconsistent year, but now he’s an RFA. So, what is he actually worth? 

Pittsburgh: Which buyouts should or could GM Ron Hextall and the Pittsburgh Penguins be watching?

Philly: The latest update on the Philadelphia Flyers and NHL trade talks. Seth Jones. Jakub Voracek. Philadelphia is trying hard, loves the game, but no one loves the Flyers back. 

Boston: Wait, did he just do that? Jack Eichel was totally flirting with the Boston Bruins right in front of the Buffalo Sabres. 

Vegas: Tom Callahan opines that the Vegas Golden Knights have significant opportunities but first must make a salary dump, too. So wave goodbye to a star player. 

Florida: Steve Goldstein is a hidden gem in Florida. The play-by-play voice of the team is not only staying with the Panthers, he’ll be adding some Dolphins duties, too.