Dan’s Daily: Picked Over UFAs; Teams Calling Fleury; Penguins Improvement

The Pittsburgh Penguins Development will get serious beginning today, as we have not gotten a great look at the prospects under pressure yet, but today the camp accelerates in anticipation of the scrimmage on Monday. We’ll have analysis and a few feature stories with some of the Penguins’ draft picks coming up, too. We’ve had the chance to speak with the new coaches, and there is a clear revitalization effort from the coaches’ offices. Elsewhere, the list of top 10 remaining free agents includes a former Penguins defenseman but shows how much the class is picked over. Despite nothing new, Montreal media is still digging for Sidney Crosby trade talk. Eleven RFAs elected salary arbitration, and the Toronto Maple Leafs are churning the NHL trade chatter.

All right, set your calendars. My next attempt to take some time away is set for two days this week (though I’ll probably write at least the Daily). My ability to imperfectly time a day off goes back several years, so get ready for the biggest news of the summer. Of course, we’ll see how the weather reacts, too.

If you pop into the Development Camp today, say hello.

Pittsburgh Penguins

Pittsburgh Hockey Now: We had a chance to speak with head coach Dan Muse and assistant Todd Nelson. There was an obvious new attitude and fresh air from those who will be running the team. Dan Muse talked philosophy, and Todd Nelson outplayed his power play strategy. I hope it’s a good read–here’s what you’re getting with the new Penguins coaches.

The Penguins’ mystery prospect from Russia is on his way–sooner than later. Mikhail Ilyin seemed to indicate he was on his way this season, but assistant GM Jason Spezza later clarified the schedule. Here’s what’s up with a potentially impactful Penguins prospect.

Steelers Now: Development is not linear. One player showing very well in the Steelers’ off-season, the big winner, is Joey Porter Jr.

NHL Trade Talk, News, & National Hockey Now

Toronto Sun: Toronto does need a roster infusion and some turnover. Terry Koshan has circled former Maple Leafs center Nazem Kadri, but the trade rumors are beginning to swirl around Toronto.

TVA: Make sure your browser translates from French to English. The Montreal media is still digging for Sidney Crosby trade potential, and Nick Kypreos is still talking about it. Presented without further comment–the reasons for Crosby to go to Montreal.

One great point that Lyle Richardson made on Spector’s Hockey was–it doesn’t make sense for Crosby to leave on what very well could be Evgeni Malkin’s farewell tour. I know many of you are ready for the next chapter–the championship core is really flirting with the line in Dark Knight: “You can die a hero or live long enough to be a villain.”

And, yes, goaltending-desperate teams are calling Marc-Andre Fleury.

How thin is the NHL goalie market? Five teams tried to convince Marc-André Fleury to come out of retirement!#AgentProvocateur @walsha @adamwylde pic.twitter.com/doIo14ZoZU

— sdpn (@sdpnsports) July 4, 2025

Vegas Hockey Now: Our Hannah Kirkell is getting settled into her new place in Las Vegas. She visited a few months ago, fell in love, and is now a resident. I can relate. She digs into WHY Vegas keeps attracting top players, and it’s not for casinos or shows. It’s obvious from the inside why the Vegas Golden Knights are winners.

NY Post: If you spend a moment on Facebook, you’ve probably seen the dozens of clickbait articles about the end of Don Cherry’s podcast and his retirement. However … it’s not true. I had to dig into it. I’ve always liked Cherry (and I can separate his political views from mine when necessary). He clarified. Grapes isn’t done just yet.

Philly Hockey Now: OK, so the Philadelphia Flyers just whiffed on Maxim Shabanov. What comes next for GM Daniel Briere and the rebuilding Flyers lineup?

NYI Hockey Now: GM Mathieu Darche has gotten to work revamping the Islanders this summer. Additions, including Shabanov and subtractions, too. Get a look at the new look New York Islanders lineup.

Sportsnet: The top 10 UFAs are not a great list. It now includes Matt Grzelcyk, too. Luke Fox went over the availables with the latest updates and some insight.

Daily Face-Off: Eleven players filed for salary arbitration, and there are some big names, including Gabriel Vilardi, who are now headed toward a bruising negotiation.