NHL Rumor Roundup: Latest On Nico Hischier, Darcy Kuemper And Boone Jenner
Among the priorities facing Sunny Mehta since taking over as GM of the New Jersey Devils is negotiating a contract extension with Nico Hischier.
The 27-year-old Devils captain has a year remaining on his contract with a salary-cap hit of $7.25 million. He was noncommittal when a reporter raised the issue of discussing an extension with a new GM last month, but that was before Mehta was hired.
On Tuesday, Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic reported that preliminary discussions between Mehta and Hischier's agent, Allain Roy, had recently taken place. He described them as "amicable and positive," but added that negotiations were at an early and "delicate stage."
NHL Rumors: Kings Linked To Devils Captain Nico Hischier
The Los Angeles Kings are among several teams expected to show interest in the Devils captain amid early extension talks in New Jersey.
Speaking of the Kings, Eric Stephens of The Athletic believes Darcy Kuemper is "almost certainly" staying put despite losing the starting goalie's role to Anton Forsberg this season.
Kuemper, 36, has one year left on his contract with a cap hit of $5.25 million. His relegation to backup status prompted speculation that the Kings might dangle him in the trade market. He has a 10-team no-trade list.
Stephens suggested Kuemper could become a comeback candidate. However, he also didn't rule out the possibility that he could be put on the trade market next season. Given the dearth of veteran starting goalies in the trade and free-agent markets, Kuemper's situation could be worth monitoring.
Blue Jackets Facing Big Decision With Captain Boone Jenner
What will the Blue Jackets do with Boone Jenner?
Meanwhile, in Columbus, Aaron Portzline of The Athletic recently speculated that Blue Jackets captain Boone Jenner might be on the move this summer.
Jenner is slated to become a UFA on July 1 after completing a four-year deal with an average annual value of $3.75 million. The 32-year-old has spent his entire 13-season NHL career with the Blue Jackets.
Portzline said nothing is settled yet, and Jenner could still re-sign with the Blue Jackets. However, he felt that management hadn't made re-signing him a priority.
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This story was originally published May 27, 2026 at 12:44 PM.