Archive for May, 2010
Coaching and free agent NHL Rumors from around the League
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on May 31st, 2010
Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: There’s a good chance the Red Wings won’t bring Kirk Maltby back for his 14th season, despite only making $500,000 last year. Dany Heatley was battling a groin injury in the playoffs. Heatley also only managed to get 16 shots on net in his last 146 shifts. The Oilers may look to add some goalie depth to their system, Swedish Fredrik Pettersson-Wentzel had a 1.85 GAA and 6 shutouts in the Swedish First Division. Joe Pavelski didn’t have a good 2nd round, and may affect his contract offer from the Sharks, maybe in the 4 year, $16 million range. Kirk Muller is a possible candidate for the New Jersey Devils head coaching position. Kevin Dineen could be the leading candidate for the Tampa Bay Lightning head coaching position, with Scott Arniel and Gerard Gallent as other possibilities. Steven Stamkos’ next contract could be in the $6 million range, using Jonathan Toews and Nicklas backstrom as comparables.
Aaron Portzline of Columbus Dispatch: Reports are that the Atlanta Thrashers are close to naming Chicago associate coach, John Torchetti, as their new head coach. Any ‘official’ word would probably come after the Stanley Cup finals. The Columbus Blue Jackets have given Ken Hitchcock permission to talk to any team, and he should get calls from New Jersey and Tampa Bay.
Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe: Ken Hitchcock may be ‘too defensive-minded’ for the Lightning. Paul MacLean, an assistant coach with the Red Wings may be a better fit. Yzerman and the Lightning may go with the ‘Detroit Philosophy’ and not spend big on their goaltender, which may bode well for Mike Smith and his $2.2 million contract. Yzerman will look to bring in grinders to fill out the bottom two lines.
Boston: Buyout for Ryder, trade Wheeler? Kaberle and more for the 4th overall pick? Boston to trade up for #1?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Videos on May 30th, 2010
- Kevin Paul Dupont of the Boston Globe: GM Chiarelli says that one of either Hall or Seguin will have an impact on the how the organization will move forward in the future. “Yes,” said Chiarelli, “it will have a bearing in what direction we go in.” Dupont notes that Michael Ryder could be bought out, which would save them $2.64 million against the cap. Marco Sturm will make $3.5 million next year but can’t be bought out due to the fact that he has a knee injury, but if they could be convince that recovery is too long and he were to retire, he’d come off the books. Blake Wheeler and his $2.85 million could be dealt.
- Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun: The Blue Jackets may be under pressure this year to make the playoffs, and could the #4 overall pick be available? Simmons thinks that Brian Burke could offer Tomas Kaberle and more for the pick.
- Stephen Harris of the Boston Herald: It’sbeen rumored that the Bruins favor Taylor Hall over Tyler Seguin, and if they want to ensure they get him, they could attempt to make a deal with Edmonton for the #1 overall pick. The Bruins are already deep at center, so Hall would be a better fit for them. The Oilers are in need of centerman more than they are of wingers. Chiarelli hasn’t met with Oilers GM, Steve Tambellini yet, but he plans on it. Harris wonders what it would take to move the one spot, Blake Wheeler or Tim Thomas?
- Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: The Columbus Blue Jackets expect to announce their next coach in the next 7 to 10 days.
Hockey Night in Canada Hotstove:
Salary cap could increase $2 million which would the Penguins and others … James Wisniewski may seek #2 Dman money and/or be traded … NHL Draft Rumors
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 29th, 2010
- Shelly Anderson of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: The Pittsburgh Penguins and the rest of the league received some good news in that according to Gary Bettman, the salary cap could be going up by about $2 million from it’s current $56.8 million. This might make it a bit easier for the Penguins to re-sign Sergei Gonchar and Matt Cooke. GM Ray Shero said that Ruslan Fedotenko won’t be back, and that they are talking to Jay McKee, but they might go a different direction. Bill Gurein wants to play next year, but the Pens have to see if he fits in to their plans. No decision has been made on whether they want to bring Alexei Ponikarovsky back or not.
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: The Anaheim Ducks will retain the negotiating rights with James Wisniewski by offering him a qualifying offer before the June 25th cut off date. Wisniewski may be looking for a nice raise on his one-year, $2.75 million deal he signed last year. He was 20th in ice time and may be seeking #2 Dman money. If that is the case, look for the Ducks to continue to try and trade him (at the deadline they were trying to move him). Ducks GM Bob Murray has yet to meet with Saku Koivu or his agent. Murray has talked to the agent of Sheldon Brookbank.
- Damian Cristodero of the St. Petersburgh Times: They can’t talk contract extension until after July 1st, but Lightning GM Steve Yzerman plans to start conversations with Steven Stamkos. Stamkos agent told the paper he’d “welcome” the discussion.
- Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette: Canadiens GM Pierre Gauthier said there won’t be a major overhaul of the club. The Canadiens have about 11 million to sign 7 players. They’ll look to trade both Kostitsyn’s but that could be difficult. The 6’5″ Ryan O’Byrne could also be trade bait. Gauthier and Tomas Plekanec’s agent have talked but no offer has been made, and it’s doubtful the Canadiens will overpay for him. He’s rumored to be after $5 million a season. Jaroslav Halak has arbitration rights, and has put up numbers similar to goalies in the $4-5 million range.
- Gare Joyce of ESPN: The Florida Panthers might be willing to trade down from their #3 draft slot. One Eastern Conference GM said he thinks draft prospect, Jack Campbell, could be a top-10 pick. Kirill Kabanov’s draft stock continues to be surrounded by red flags. One top scout said they won’t interview him, therefore won’t draft him. He met with 17 teams. Brett Connolly who’s draft slot has been in question due battling an injury all season (hip injury), survived the testing and looked good. He’s projected as a top-10 pick, possible a top-5 if further medical tests are good.
Ilya Kovalchuk and Alexander Frolov get KHL Offers
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 28th, 2010
TSN.ca: According to a Russian website (Sovsports) , Ilya Kovalchuk as received a 3-year, $30 million contract offer from the SKA St Petersburg. Kovalchuk would like to stay in the NHL, and will wait to see all his options on July 1st.
The same Russian website is also reporting that SKA St Petersburgh has made an offer to Kings forward Alexander Frolov. Kings GM Dean Lombardi didn’t comment on the report, and was unsure if he could re-sign Frolov at the terms he is looking for. It’s not known what SKA offered Frolov.
Now, we all expected Kovalchuk and Frolov to get some offers from the KHL, but what surprised me was how little Kovalchuk’s offer was for. Don’t get me wrong, $10 million tax free a year is a ton of money, but for months its been mentioned that he could get upwards of $20 million a season. We know that some owners/league backers have a ton of money, but are they now realizing they don’t have as much clout as they thought they had? It’s been reported in the past that all players weren’t getting paid or not getting what they were promised. The once powerful Moscow Dynamo folded last month, and were the 2nd team in the last year to cease operations.
In the end, I see Kovalchuk staying in the NHL for around $8 million a season. It’s about $2 million less than what Atlanta was offering, but I think he wanted out. If he goes to a larger market, he will be able to easily make up the difference in endorsements.
Boucher back Saturday? Rob Blake leaning to retirement … Nabokov would like to stay in San Jose … Yzerman needs to lock up Stamkos
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 27th, 2010
- Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: Though it was speculated that his season was over after suffering sprained ligaments in both knees on May 10th, Brian Boucher returned to practice with the hope of dressing for game 1 on Saturday. He’ll travel with the team to Chicago on Friday. Though he’s experiencing a bit of pain, and it will continue for another month or so, doctors have said the injury has healed.
- David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News: Signs are pointing to Rob Blake retiring from hockey according to a ‘source’ close to the situation. “You need time to unwind after the season and different things,” Blake said.
- David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News: Evgeni Nabokov would like to return to the San Jose Sharks next season, but he realizes that decision may not be up to him. “Let’s face it, the mission is not accomplished yet,” he said of the Sharks’ goal of winning the Stanley Cup. “I want to be a part of it, but I don’t know if it’s up to me.” Patrick Marleau is also a UFA and has said that he and his family like living in San Jose. When asked if he’d take a ‘hometown discount’, Marleau said “I’m not going to get in to that.”
- Elliotte Friedman of CBCSports: Steve Yzerman is reported to now be the highest paid VP/GM in the league at $2.5 million a season for 5 years. Glen Sather reportedly makes more, but he is also the president. One of Yzerman’s important tasks will be locking Steven Stamkos up long term, next season will be his last on his entry level deal, and will make $875,000 base salary this year with a cap hit of $3.725 million with all bonuses included. Comparables for Stamkos will be: Crosby/Malkin – 5 years, $43.5 million, $8.7 million cap hit. Anze Kopitar – 7 years, $47.6 million, $6.8 million cap hit. Nicklas Backstom – 10 years, $67 million, $6.7 million cap hit. Paul Stastney – 5 years, $33 million, $6.6 cap hit. Toews/Kane – 5 years, $31.5 million, $6.3 million cap hit. Mike Richards – 12 years, $69 million, $5.75 million. Look for Stamkos to sign for below the Crosby/Malkin average ($8.7 million), but higher than Kopitar ($6.8 million).
- Randy Sportak of the Calgary Sun: Trading Jarome Iginla makes no sense for the Calgary Flames, on and off the ice. If they could be guaranteed to get a franchise player in return (top 2 pick in the draft), then it might be possible, but that probably won’t happen.
- Kevin Allen of the USA Today: After the St. Louis Blues organizational meetings wrap up on June 12th, the Blues GM Doug Armstrong wants to meet with UFA Chris Mason in person. Mason is 34-years old and made $3 million last season.
- Chris Vivlamore of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution: According to Maxim Afinogenov’s agent Don Meehan, he’s received a one-year contract offer from the Atlanta Thrashers. Afinogenov’s was second in team scoring with 61 points after signing a one-year deal worth $800,000 last season. After some discussions, Colby Armstrong will not receive a contract offer from the Thrashers. He made $2.4 million last season.
- Rich Hammond of LA Kings Insider: Kings GM Dean Lombardi was on the 1260-AM and asked if Alexander Frolov will be back or whether they’ll move on, here’s part of his response.
LOMBARDI: “When you talk about building today, it’s certainly different from prior to the lockout. You really get tied in with, `Do you like the player?’ Yes, but do you like him at `X’ price? Because you now have to get the right price, if you’re going to be able to keep your core together. So would we like to keep him? Yes. But if the price is prohibitive, and maybe would prevent us from filling other holes and making sure we keep Doughty and Johnson and all these kids coming through, then you have to walk away. I think you’re probably right on Fro. He’s a good player. I guess at times, like you say, you think he’s capable of more, but he’s still a productive player. But you still now have to really be astute in how you attach a price tag to that, or you’re going to get yourself in trouble down the road, and then all this building we’ve done makes no sense if we can’t keep these young players that have come through our system. So I’m not too optimistic, given what he’s looking for. The other thing we’re confronting here, don’t forget, is the KHL, and they’re offering an awful lot of money, tax-free. It’s almost like the WHL days, where the difference in dollars is huge.”
- AP in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution: Atlanta native and film-maker, Stephen Rollins, hasn’t made an offer to buy the the Atlanta Thrashers, but he did admit to being interested in becoming a majority owner in the club. He has talked to one of the owners about his interest.
More on the Canadiens … Ryan and Ducks talking … Marleau to Toronto? Jacob Markstrom coming to North America?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 26th, 2010
- Sean Gordon of the Globe and Mail: The Montreal Canadiens will have $13-14 million to fill out 9 roster spots. That is not a lot play when players like Tomas Plekanec, Jaroslav Halak and/or Carey Price are due for raises, if they want to keep them. Gordon thinks Halak’s price could be in the $3.55 million range, similar to Kari Lehtonen. Halak doesn’t want to think hockey right now, saying he needs a vacation. GM Pierre Gauthier will consider all options involving both goalies, even if it won’t be popular with fans. Signing Dominic Moore could be a priority for the team. The Habs will probably look to deal Roman Hamrlik, and the Kostitsyn brothers this summer.
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Bobby Ryan’s agent, Don Meehan, confirmed yesterday that he’s had recent talks with the Anaheim Ducks regarding a contract extension, and expects more meetings in the upcoming weeks. It doesn’t sound like a deal will happen soon, but both sides appear to want to get something worked out over the summer.
- Jeff Blair of the Globe and Mail: Do Globe and Mail writers require a ‘comment quota’ they need to reach each month? The article title says it all “Marleau to Toronto makes sense” … It doesn’t make sense if Marleau wants to win a cup soon. Sure the Leafs would probably love to have this guy, but don’t count on it happening.
- George Richards of the Miami Herald: Panthers GM Dale Tallon met with top goalie prospect Jacob Markstrom about coming over to North America next season. If/when he’s signed, they’d ideally like him to get some action in the AHL to get adjusted to the North American style of play. The Panthers still have Tomas Vokoun and Scott Clemmensen under contract, but if a taker could be found for Vokoun, I’d be surprised if they didn’t move him and have Markstrom battle for the #1 spot.
- Columbus Dispatch: One of the top candidates for the Columbus Blue Jackets head coach position, may also now be a top contender for the Tampa Bay Lightning position. Newly hired GM Steve Yzerman and Kevin Dineen have a strong friendship dating back years. The Blue Jackets are still waiting to meet with Guy Boucher of the AHL Hamilton Bulldogs, who play game 7 tonight.
Steve Yzerman named new GM of the Tampa Bay Lightning
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on May 25th, 2010
Damian Cristodero of the St. Petersbrug Times: It came as a bit of surprise today that Steve Yzerman was named the new General Manager of the Tampa Bay Lightning. For weeks it was thought that he wasn’t interested in taking the position. A few days ago, he offered a ‘no comment’ when asked about his interest in it, which then led one to believe he was back in the running.
The deal could be for 5 years, and with the possibility of Yzerman being one of the top paid GMs in the league (one of the top paid GMs was mentioned on the Fan 590 today).
New Lightning owner Jeff Vinik said “Steve is the right man to bring a winning atmosphere back here and build a world-class organization”. “Vinik lauded Yzerman’s leadership, integrity and loyalty and ‘intelligent, thoughtful approach to making decisions.’”
Yzerman will now look to hiring a new coach, and preparing for the NHL Draft on June 25th-26th which they have the 6th overall pick.
Wings won’t do anything until Lidstrom decides what he’s doing … Horton trade bait … What will the Canadiens do now?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 25th, 2010
- George Malik of MLive: Red Wings GM Ken Holland told MLive that they can’t re-sign Tomas Holmstrom, Todd Bertuzzi, or any of their 5 RFAs before they hear if Nicklas Lidstrom will be back next season or not. Lidstrom has told the them he’ll let them know in a couple weeks. It doesn’t look like Brett Lebda, Jason Williams, and Doug Janik will be back. Derek Meech should get a qualifying offer from them.
- Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe: Panthers GM Dale Tallon isn’t a fan of players who aren’t willing to pay the price, which means that Nathan Horton could be on his way out, as he known to not have a good work ethic. A Bruin, who has friends on the Panthers has been told that Norton has “No heartbeat”. “We weeded out people who didn’t want to pay the price,” Tallon said. “If you don’t want to pay the price and you don’t want to be involved here, you’re not going to be here.” The Bruins have limited funds available to sign free agents, but could target Flyers winger, Aaron Asham.
- Lyle Richardson of Fox Sports: The Montreal Canadiens currently have 14 players locked up for about $45.7 million. Tomas Plekanec is a UFA and it might take around $5 million to re-sign him. Their biggest off-season situation is obviously what to do with Jaroslav Halak and Carey Price. Halak has shown that he can the #1, but Price could be the future star. RFAs Maxim Lapierre, Tom Pyatt, and Benoit Pouliot should be back. Glen Metropolit, Marc-Andre Bergeron, and Paul Mara probably won’t be back. Halak playoff performance may get himself a contract offer from the Canadiens, maybe in the $3 million range. To clear up some salary space, they may try to get rid of Andrei Kostitsyn (1 year, $3.25 million) and Roman Hamrlik (1 year, $5.5 million), but that could be difficult. One option would be for the Canadiens to package one of them with Carey Price. Buying George Laraque out will free up $1 million. Andrei Markov will be a free agent after next year, and could be shopped around if they think he’ll be out of their price range ($7 million?) or not in their long term plans.
- Mark Purdy of the San Jose Mercury News: It is possible that the Sharks could re-sign both Patrick Marleau and Evgeni Nabokov, but odds are they will only go after 1. Joe Pavelski and Devin Setoguchi will be getting pay increases, and cap space will be disappearing. If they let Nabokov go, they could go with Thomas Greiss and minor leaguer Alex Stalock, or look to bring in a less expensive goalie to challenge for the #1 spot.
- Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer: Carolina Hurricanes majority owner Peter Karmanos Jr. has hired a New York investment firm to help him find a local buyer for a 49% stake in the team. Karmanos former co-owner, Thomas Thewes, passed away a few years ago, he owned the 49% of the team.
Kovalchuk to KHL? Marleau talk … Blues to go after a D-man?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 24th, 2010
- Mark Everson of the NY Post: Reports are floating around that Ilya Kovalchuk is signing with St. Petersburg of the KHL, but … “Don’t jump to conclusions,” warned the source at the World Championships in Germany.
- David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News: It’s unsure if the San Jose Sharks will want to bring Patrick Marleau back, but it sounds like he’d like to stay. “There’s lots of time to think about that,” Marleau said. “We love San Jose. We’ll see how every thing works out.”
- Ray Ratto of the San Francisco Chronicle: Ratto thinks the LA Kings and Calgary Flames could have an interest in Patrick Marleau. The Kings we’ve heard before, and the Flames might have trouble fitting his salary under their cap. Rob Blake could retire.
- Scott Cullen of TSN: The Blues say they are not in the market for a big free agent scorer (they tried acquiring Kovalchuk at the trade deadline), but they could look to a spend some money on a top defenseman free agent, with Cullen naming Paul Martin and Dan Hamhuis as possibilities. They’ll also have to decide what they want to do between the pipes as last years starter, Chris Mason, is a UFA.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Panthers new GM, Dale Tallon, may look to his old team (Blackhawks) to help improve his new club. The ‘Hawks will be the center of plenty of rumors this summer as they will be forced to trade some of their higher price players to get under next seasons cap. Matheson thinks Tallon will go after Kris Versteeg, and possibily Dustin Byfuglien and Patrick Sharp. The Blackhawks currently have 14 players under contract for $55 million next season.
- QMI Agency, Toronto Sun: The Globe and Mail reported that if the NHL can not find a new owner to keep the Phoenix Coyotes in Glendale by Dec. 31st, the league has a ‘bona-fide offer’ to purchase the club and move it Winnipeg. The city of Glendale agreed on Friday that they would cover up to $25 million in team losses during the 2011-12 season if a new owner can’t be found before hand. True North Sports and Entertainment is the name of the group that is interested in moving the team to Winnipeg.
No Market for Spezza? Volchenkov to Capitals? Harder for Bruins to trade Tim Thomas now
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on May 23rd, 2010
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Jason Spezza has 5 years and $35 million left his salary, and he has a no-movement clause that doesn’t kick in until July 1st. Many fans (44% of those polled by the Sun) would like to see him dealt away. The Sun contacted 5 teams to see if Spezza’s name was out there, but they hadn’t heard anything. “There’s no market for him,” said Sportsnet analyst Doug MacLean, a former GM of the Columbus Blue Jackets. “I think what you do is you hope that he improves. You’ve got (Milan) Michalek and you hope those two can develop some chemistry. You just have to plug around (Spezza).” If they could deal him, they probably wouldn’t get equal value back. Garrioch mentions 3 teams that could be interested in Spezza, Tampa Bay, Columbus, and Edmonton.
- Don Brennan of the QMI Agency, Toronto Star: Anton Volchenkov appears be getting ready to move on from Ottawa Senators, as he’s put his house up for sale. The Washington Capitals are reportedly getting ready to offer him somewhere in the $5 million a season range. The Senators would still like to re-sign him, but contract talks are going nowhere. Retaining Andy Sutton could be plan B for the Sens.
- Boston Herald: Trading Tim Thomas this off-season became a little tougher as he had surgery on a torn hip labrum, and it will be 3-4 months recovery. Andrew Ference had hernia surgery that will require 2 month recovery. Vladimir Sobotka will have shoulder surgery on Tuesday.
- Chris McCosky of the Detroit News: Tomas Holmstrom took a hometown discount on his last Detroit Red Wings contract, but that may not be the case this time around. The 37-year old is looking for a multi-year deal. From his agents, “On the last contract, Tomas took a hometown discount so the organization would have enough cap room to keep everybody here (in Detroit). But at the end of the day, Tomas is going to have to feel he’s being treated fairly in the realm of what is taking place in the locker room.”
- Ron Cook of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: Though the Penguins have said they aren’t interested in trading Evgeni Malkin, Cook thinks they’d be crazy not to listen to offers, and I agree with him. Why not listen to what teams will throw your way? Though they wouldn’t get the best player in any deal, they should be able to get a lot of nice pieces that might improve their team on a whole. A star winger, a top 2-4 defenseman, a prospect, maybe a pick or 2? Malkin and Crosby make a combined $17.4 million, toss in Jordan Staal, and that’s about $21.4 million in your top 3 centermen.
Options if Lidstrom Retires … Yzerman still considering Tampa? A new look Shark team next year?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 22nd, 2010
- George Malik of MLive: If Nicklas Lidstrom retires, Brian Rafalski could step up into a larger role. One option available for the Red Wings would be to call up the Maple Leafs and see what it would take for Tomas Kaberle. They could also look at 2nd tier defenseman like Henrik Tallinder, Toni Lydman, Derek Morris, Joe Corvo, and Kim Johnsson.
- Ansar Khan of MLive: There are mixed reports on if Steve Yzerman is still considered a candidate or interested in the Tampa Bay Lightning GM position. It was report earlier that he wasn’t interested, but that may not be the case. When asked about it, “My response has always been not to comment,” Yzerman said. That might lead one to speculate that it’s still an option for him.
- Mike Brophy of Sportsnet: The Sharks are down 3-0, and it will take a miracle for them to come back and win the series versus the Blackhawks. Big changes could be coming from them in the off-season. Odds are looking good that Patrick Marleau won’t be back with the Sharks next season. Evgeni Nabokov is 34 and a UFA, and despite solid regular season numbers, he has a history of not performing in the playoffs. No one questions Joe Thornton’s talent, but the playoffs have a tendency of not bringing out the best of him, he’s a -10 heading into last night. GM Doug Wilson will also be on the hotseat as he’s the one who’s put together this team that has had some playoff woes the past couple seasons.
Malkin not going anywhere? Taylor Hall at center? Kubina and Afinogenov could be back with the Thrashers
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 21st, 2010
- Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: Rossi has been told that the Penguins “are not entertaining the possibility of trading C Evgeni Malkin”.
- Ron Cook of the Pittsburgh Post Gazette: Cook doesn’t think the Penguins will bring back UFAs: Sergei Gonchar, Alexei Ponikarovsky, Bill Guerin, Jordan Leopold, Ruslan Fedotenko, and Jay McKee. Matt Cooke (depending on how much money he wants) and Mark Eaton are the best possibilities to be brought back by the Pens.
- Ken Weibe of QMI Agency in the Toronto Sun: Windsor Spitfires coach thinks Taylor Hall should be the #1 pick (not a surprise since he coaches him). Part of the belief that the Oilers could select Tyler Seguin with the #1 pick is that they need a ‘center of the future’. Coach Bob Boughner says Hall is naturally a center … “Taylor is a centre naturally, he’s playing left wing on our team but he’ll take some draws once in a while and he’s good on draws,” said Boughner. “I don’t doubt that if he goes to the next level and they need a centre, he could play centre as well. He’s pretty strong on the puck. “The reason I put him on the wing is to conserve his energy and expose other teams wide because he has that speed.”
- Kevin Allen of the USA Today: The Atlanta Thrashers have talked with 2 of their UFAs, Pavel Kubina and Maxim Afinogenov, and come away thinking they have a good chance at re-signing them. Allen thinks Kubina will want a deal in the 4 year, $16 million range, which might be problem for the Thrashers. It doesn’t look like Colby Armstrong will be back with the Thrashers next season.
- Gordon McIntyre of the Vancouver Province: Canucks RFA Mason Raymond could be on the trade block this summer. The going rate for a 25 goal scorer is around $2.5-3 million, but how do you offer him over $2 million when Alex Burrows makes that much and scored 38 goals. Raymond’s game is also similar to another RFA, Michael Grabner. The Canucks could trade him for a top-4 defenseman, or for some more size up front (if they are giving him up for more size, that player has to have some skill as well).
- Craig Custance of the Sporting News: There are currently 4 teams without a head coach: Atlanta, Columbus, New Jersey, and Tampa. Custance goes through top coaching candidates out there. “The AHL Contingent” – Guy Boucher (Hamilton), Scott Arniel (Manitoba), and Kevin Dineen (Portland). “Top NHL Assistants” – Craig Ramsey (Boston), Paul MacLean (Detroit), Brent Peterson (Nashville). “Stanley Cup Winners” – Bob Hartley and Ken Hitchcock. “Recent NHL Experience” – Craig MacTavish, John Stevens, and Rick Tocchet.
Nabokov’s time in San Jose running out … Wild could look to adding another 1st round pick
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL News on May 20th, 2010
- Michael Russo of the Star Tribune: The Minnesota Wild have an extra 2nd round picks, 3 picks in the top 57, and 4 picks in the top 69. The Wild’s GM Chuck Fletcher treats draft picks as ‘currency’ and may look to packing his 2 2nd round picks and move up to late in the 1st round. Fletcher has had some conversations with some of the teams UFAs, but it looks like only a couple may be re-signed, and that might be after July 1st. Their unrestricted free agents are Boogard, Nolan, Scott, Ebbett, Hnidy, and Earl.
- Cam Inman of the Contra Costa Times: Inman thinks Evgeni Nabokov’s Sharks legacy is hinging on this series with the Blackhawks. If they don’t come back, and Nabokov struggles, he may be playing his final games in a Sharks uniform. He has had a strong playoff, but it might not be enough.
- Aaron Portzline of teh Columbus Dispatch: Scott Arniel had his second interview with the Columbus Blue Jackets yesterday, and will be meeting with the Atlanta Thrashers either today or tomorrow. The Blue Jackets are waiting to talk with AHL Hamilton Bulldogs coach, Guy Boucher, who’s team is still playing.
Whitney and Babchuk back in Carolina? Dale Tallon and the Panthers
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News on May 19th, 2010
- Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer: Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford is confident that Ray Whitney and Anton Babchuk will be back with the Canes next season. Rutherford has also met with Rod Brind’Amour once, and will meet again in June, to discuss if he’ll back for his final season on his contract, or retire. Either way, Brind’Amour salary will count against the cap.
- David Neal of the Miami Herald: From Dale Tallon’s news conference after being named the new GM of the Florida Panthers, “We’re going to build from the drafts and hire a top-notch scouting and hockey [operations] staff. We’ve been given the budget to do so.” The Panther#3 overall pick, along with 3 2nd round picks. The Panthers haven’t had a lot of success with the draft, but hope to change that going forward.
- Eric Duhatschek of the Globe and Mail: Dale Tallon has had some success through trades and through the draft when he was the GM of the Blackhawks, so the Panthers could be in good hands. He basically acquired Patrick Sharp and Kris Versteeg for nothing, and got rid of players such as Tyler Arnason, Mark Bell, and Kyle Calder, who were once thought to be part of the rebuilding core for the Hawks. Who he’ll feel as ‘core’ players for the Panthers is not yet known.
Rumors from Beantown
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 19th, 2010
- Steve Conroy of the Boston Herald: Bruins backup goalie, Tim Thomas, plans on bouncing back from a sub-par season, and thinks he can be a number 1 goalie again. Where he could be the number 1 is the bigger question. Though he has a no-trade clause, he won’t just waive it to anywhere as his family would play an important role. The Bruins would have $6.25 million for both Thomas and Rask, so it’s a good number and would provide them insurance with the 23-year old Rask.
- James Murphy of NESN: Tim Thomas indicated that he might not mind staying with the Bruins and help ‘finish what they’ve started’ with the current team. He also added this when talking about his no-trade clause, “There’s a lot of other factors in every decision that people make,” he added. “Not just you guys but us guys too. You know I have family, I have kids in school — I have other things to think of. So having that kind of control of a no-trade clause is comforting.”
- Steve Conroy of the Boston Herald: The Bruins and Dennis Seidenberg’s agent have begun contract negotiations last week, and Seidenberg is confident something will get done. He’s coming off a 1 year, $2.25 million deal, and might be looking for something around $4 million. I’d be surprised if it was that high, maybe in the $3-3.5 range.
- Stephen Harris of the Boston Herald: Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli will make some changes for next season, some younger players will be a given a chance. Taylor Hall or Tyler Seguin could be a new addition. 2009 1st round pick Jordan Caron will get a serious look. The Bruins will also use patience with their young guys if they feel they are not quite ready, and could bring back Mark Recchi and Shawn Thornton.
Laperriere back soon, Carter unlikely … Offer Sheets out there? Boychuk now a UFA … Sens wanted Cammalleri, got Kovalev
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 18th, 2010
- Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: Flyers winger Ian Laperriere practiced with the team yesterday, and could return later on in the series. Laperriere has been out since April 22nd with a brain bruise and concussion. Jeff Carter skated for the first time since suffering a broken foot on April 20th, though it’s unlikely he’ll be able to return this series.
- Craig Custance of the Sporting News: Will there be any offer sheets or deals similar to last years Bruins-Leafs trade for Phil Kessel? Custance offers a few names that might get some interest: Jaroslav Halak or Carey Price, Joe Pavelski, and Bobby Ryan. I think Pavelski and Ryan will both be re-signed by the the Sharks and Ducks. Price or Halak could be dealt at the draft, with Price the more likely candidate in my opinion.
- Helene St. James of hte Detroit Free Press: Nicklas Lidstrom will let the Detroit Red Wings know in the next few weeks if he will play next season, or retire. “Nick’s told me he’ll give me lots of time prior to July 1 when free agency starts,” Holland said. “I met with him last week, and we talked about the team, and he said he’d give me lots of time before July 1 with his decision.”
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Not much info coming out of Anaheim or the Bobby Ryan camp regarding the RFA. The Ducks will be looking to lock up Ryan long term, but at what cost? Corey Perry and Ryan Getzlaf both signed for around $5.3 million a season, 2 years ago. They would probably like to sign Ryan at a number below what Perry and Getzlaf got.
- Joe Haggerty of CSNNE: Bruins defenseman Johnny Boychuk would have been a restricted free agent this off-season, but due to the fact that he’s played under 80 games, and is 26-years old, he is now a group 6 unrestricted free agent.
- Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: Scott Arniel and Kevin Dineen have been called back for a 2nd interview by the Columbus Blue Jackets for their vacant head coaching position. Red Wings assistant coach, Paul MacLean, should find out today if he’s getting a call back for another interview. Last seasons interim coach, Claude Noel, is still considered a strong candidate even though he won’t have a second interview since they are familar with him.
- Wayne Scanlan of the Ottawa Citizen: At the beginning of last years free agent period, Senators GM Bryan Murray offered Mike Cammalleri a 4 year, $22 million ($5.5 mill. a year) deal. Cammalleri eventually took 5 years and $30 million ($6 mill. a year), and never asked Ottawa if they’d increase their offer. On the bright side Senators fans, that money was used on Alex Kovalev’s 2 year, $10 million deal.
Dale Tallon named new GM of the Florida Panthers
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on May 17th, 2010
Steve Gordon of the Sun-Sentinel: The Florida Panthers will have a press conference tomorrow morning at 11 AM to name Dale Tallon as the teams new general manager. Tallon will replace Randy Sexton, who will remain with the club in some capacity.
Tallon is the former GM of the Chicago Blackhawks, who played a big role in building the club that is playing in the conference finals. Tallon was with the Blackhawks for 33 years, and was the GM from 2005 to July 2009.
In a statement released by the Panthers, Tallon stated …
“It is with great pleasure and excitement that I join the Florida Panthers. I would like to thank Managing Partners Cliff Viner and Stu Siegel, Alternate Governor Bill Torrey and President/COO Michael Yormark for giving me the opportunity to put my mark on this franchise. I look forward to getting to work and will immediately evaluate our club’s framework, as we diligently prepare for the upcoming draft and free agency signing period.”
Nicklas Backtrom Signs a 10 year Extension with the Capitals
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on May 17th, 2010
The Washington Capitals have locked up star center Nicklas Backstrom for the next 10 seasons. The 22-year olds 10 year deal is worth $67 million according to TSN. A $6.7 million salary cap number is a good number in my opinion.
Backstrom recorded his 1st 100 point season this past year, scoring 33 goals and adding 68 assists. He was also a +37. In 246 career games, Backstrom has scored 69 goals, and 189 assists.
Alexander Ovechkin and Nicklas Backstrom will have a combine salary cap number of $16.238 million. Mike Green also brings a $5.25 million cap number for the next couple years. Alexander Semin will make $6 million next year, and will probably not be with the club the following year. I wouldn’t be surprised if the Capitals quietly shop him around.
Extension for Backstrom today? Kicking tires on Miller? yeah right … Time to trade Malkin? Tim Tomas for Brian Campbell?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 17th, 2010
- TSN: There is a good chance that Nicklas Backstrom will be signing a long term contract extension with Washington Capitals this morning. The Capitals are only saying, “significant player-related announcement” is coming on Monday.
- George Malik of MLive: Rob Parker of WDIV’s Sports Final Edition did a terrible job trying to create a rumor involving the Red Wings, saying they will kick tires on acquiring Ryan Miller. Okay Rob. I don’t know what say about this other than; is Rob Parker, Eklund ‘the anonymous hockey blogger’?
- Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: Red Wings GM, Ken Holland will begin working towards signing some of their free agents. Tomas Holmstrom is slam dunk to re-sign with the Red Wings, Todd Bertuzzi is a good possibiliy. They also have an interest in re-signing Andreas Lilja at a lower salary from the $1.25 million he made this past season. Don’t count on seeing Jason Williams, Brad May and Brett Lebda back in a Wings uniform next season.
- Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: Rossi thinks the Penguins should look at moving Geno Malkin, and it would have to include a top-line winger, top 2 defenseman, 2 roster players and either 2 prospects or 2 1st round picks. He thinks re-signing Gonchar to anything more than $4 million on a multi-year deal is a risk. Mark Eaton should be re-sign at around $2 million a season. Ben Lovejoy should be re-signed. Rossi also thinks the Penguins should go after Dan Hamhuis, offering a 4 year deal at a cap hit around $3.25 million. I think it would take more the $3.25 million to get Hamhuis
- Kevin Paul Dupont of the Boston Globe: Dupont thinks the Bruins and Blackhawks could work on a Brian Campbell – Tim Thomas deal this off-season. Thomas has 3 years and $15 million left on his deal, Campbell has 6 years left with a cap hit of $7.14 million. Mark Recchi will most likely play another season for the Bruins.
- Steve Conroy of the Boston Herald: Conroy wonders if the Bruins are able to trade Tim Thomas this off-season, is Rask ready to take the reins without a safety net? If they can deal Thomas, I’m sure they’ll bring in someone to help Rask along, he’s only 23-years old.
- Adrian Date of the Denver Post: With 12 players locked up for about $28.2 million (cap number), the Colorado Avalanche have the cap room to add some significant pieces. Dater lists 3 possibilities: Ilya Kovalchuk, Dan Hamhuis, and Brian McGrattan.
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