While several young players have already signed their new contracts ahead of the 2025-2026 season, the case of Marco Rossi continues to draw attention in the NHL.
The Austrian forward, still a restricted free agent, has yet to reach an agreement with the Minnesota Wild, and negotiations appear to be at a standstill.
According to well-informed journalist Michael Russo of The Athletic, no discussions have taken place between the two parties since the beginning of June-a silence that creates uncertainty about what comes next.
"The Wild and Rossi's camp haven't had talks since early June, per league sources. President of hockey operations and general manager Bill Guerin has said he likes Rossi and wants to re-sign the restricted free agent. But with no offer sheets coming, at least for now, this might be a waiting game until the next pressure point in negotiations - the start of training camp in mid-September." - Michael Russo
The slow progress of the negotiations is not necessarily unusual in this type of situation. The Wild seem to be taking a patient approach, banking on the fact that no offer sheet is imminent from another NHL team. This lack of external pressure allows Minnesota's management to keep control of the timeline.
On Rossi's side, no public statement has been made recently, but everything indicates that the player hopes to secure a contract that reflects his development and potential after a clearly improved 2024-2025 season.
NHL Teams Could Enter the Marco Rossi Derby
The Montreal Canadiens could be among them. According to some sources, General Manager Kent Hughes is keeping a close eye on the situation of the young Austrian center, who remains a restricted free agent.
Rossi, 23, made solid strides last year and could represent an intriguing option for a team looking for center depth and already-established young offensive talent. While no offer sheet is imminent, the ongoing deadlock could open the door to discussions or even a trade.
For the Habs, the interest would be logical: Rossi fits the profile of a developing player that the organization is looking to build around long-term. Time will tell whether Montreal moves from observation to action.
| POLL | ||
JUILLET 30 | 189 ANSWERS Canadiens' Chances Hurt by Poor Handling of Marco Rossi Situation Should Kent Hughes Be Interested in Marco Rossi? | ||
| Yes | 76 | 40.2 % |
| No | 113 | 59.8 % |
| List of polls | ||
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