Archive for July, 2010
Turco to ‘Hawks if they walk away or trade Niemi … Bieksa and Kaberle getting interest …
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on July 31st, 2010
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: Richard Bloch could be the arbitrator in Kovalchuk case. Wednesday could be the start date, possibly concluding on Thursday.
- Tim Sassone of the Daily Herald: Sources are saying Antti Niemi could be getting between $3 and $4 million from arbitration, which won’t be a good number for the ‘Hawks. Before arbitration the ‘Hawks offered Niemi a 3 year, $8 million deal. 3 teams that could be interested in Niemi are the Sharks, Capitals and Flyers.
- NHLSourcesSay via twitter: If the Blackhawks walk away or trade Antti Niemi, they have a verbal agreement with Marty Turco for 1 year, $1.5 million.
- Dennis Bernstein via twitter: After the trading of James Wisniewski, the Ducks could be looking at Andy Sutton, possibly Tomas Kaberle.
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: The Ducks are apparently very interested in Kevin Bieksa, also looking into Tomas Kaberle.
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: The Columbus Blue Jackets are still looking at defenseman, including Kevin Bieksa and Tomas Kaberle.
- Vicki Hall of the Calgary Herald: The Calgary Flames are currently about $2.35 million over the cap ceiling after the Ian White signing. That doesn’t include Mikael Backlund (about $1.27 million) but does include Ales Kotalik ($3 million). Kotalik could be sent to the minors or head back to Europe, both options would take Kotalik’s number off the cap. They have 8 defenseman under contract, which could mean one of them could be dealt.
- Steve Conroy of the Boston Herald: After Blake Wheeler’s arbitration ruling, the Bruins are currently over the salary cap ceiling. They aren’t expected to buyout a player. The Bruins will most likely send a player to the minors, with Michael Ryder and his $4 million contract the leading candidate, or make a trade.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Jamal Mayers is talking to multiple teams, and hopes to have a deal done by end of next week.
Setoguchi getting a 1 year deal … Caps interested in Niemi? Stars and Neal waiting it out
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on July 30th, 2010
- Craig Custance of the Sporting News: The San Jose Sharks and Devin Setoguchi could be closing in on a 1-year deal, which could be done in the next week. They are also starting talks with Joe Thornton on an extension.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: The Dallas Stars and James Neal still haven’t been able to reach an agreement, both are playing the waiting game. The Stars could be looking for a 2 year deal in the $2.5 million range, with Neal wanting more. Possible comparables in Tomas Fleishmann and Mason Raymond signed in that range. Other RFA that could be used as comparables are Bobby Ryan, Devin Setoguchi, Chris Stewart and Patric Hornqvist.
- James Mirtle via twitter: Reading between the lines to Blackhawks GM Stan Bowman comments, other teams may be looking into Antti Niemi’s availability.
- NHL Sources Say via twitter: If the Blackhawks don’t like Antti Niemi’s ruling and he becomes available, the Capitals could be interested.
- Damian Cristodero of the St. Petersberg Times: The Tampa Bay Lightning have 7 defenseman under contract, and GM Steve Yzerman could be looking for 1 more. Yzerman would like to bring Paul Ranger back, but Ranger is not ready to make a decision at this time. Ranger missed most of last season due to personal reasons.
- Craig Custance via twitter: The Atlanta Thrashers still have some interest in bringing Maxim Afinogenov back, though negotiations may not be that active.
Rumors involving the Toronto Maple Leafs for July 30th
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on July 30th, 2010
- Michael Traikos of the National Post: Six teams are reportedly still interested in Tomas Kaberle, so it looks good that Burke’s biggest asset will be moved by Aug. 15th. After the 16th Burke loses some control as the no-trade kicks back in. Kaberle could veto all deals during the season and leave a free agent, with the Leafs getting nothing in return (see Mats Sundin). This could be why Burke isn’t getting the home-run offer he’s seeking. “We’re not asking for anything,” Burke said. “We’re fielding offers. We’re either going to get an offer that makes sense for Tomas Kaberle or we’re going to keep him.” According to a Post source, the Leafs have already rejected a deal involving a top 6 forward and a draft pick. The Devils, Kings and Ducks could be waiting for the Kovalchuk saga to end before they make a move. Burke says “It’s clogging the waters,” referring to the Kovalchuk situation.
- Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun: The countdown has begun for Tomas Kaberle’s August 15th trade cut-off date. Burke hopes the Kovalchuk situation gets cleared up quickly so some teams can turn their focus on Kaberle (NJ and LA could be involved regarding both players. Rumors to the Kings, who just lost defenseman Matt Green for 3 months, will heat up, he’ll only miss about 3 weeks of the regular season though). If the Leafs don’t get their top-6 forward from a Kaberle deal, they could go back to Marc Savard if the price comes down a bit.
- NHL Sources Say via twitter: The Maple Leafs could be interested in James Neal of the Dallas Stars, but would have to take some salary back, Mike Ribeiro could be that guy.
- Michael Russo via twitter: Rumor that the Minnesota Wild are interested in Tomas Kaberle are NOT true.
- Dave Fuller of the Toronto Sun: Scratch Columbus off the list of possible destinations for Tomas Kaberle after they avoided arbitration the other day with Anton Stralman. Now this may be true, but this team needs to make the playoffs, and an upgrade to their defense would be a step in the right direction, especially a power play quarterback.
White-Flames heading to arbitration … Regin and Campoli at standstill with Sens … Richards staying in Dallas long-term? Redden to be waived?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on July 29th, 2010
- Randy Sportak of the Calgary Sun: It doesn’t appear like the Calgary Flames and Ian White will reach an agreement before their Friday arbitration case. From White’s agent, “If something happens, something happens. But we’re not counting on it”. White made $950,000 last season, where he had 13 goals and 25 assists in 83 games.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: It looks like both Peter Regin and Chris Campoli will be going to arbitration with the Ottawa Senators, as contract talks with both are going nowhere.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: It looks like Brad Richards will remain with the Stars, with the possibility of being one of the center-pieces the club builds around. “The Stars want to keep Richards and Richards wants to stay here.” He’d have to take a pay cut from his $7.8 million if he were to resign.
- Douglas Flynn of NESN: Before the Bruins include Tyler Seguin and Blake Wheeler’s salary (his ruling should come out sometime today), they are pushing up against the cap. Efforts to trade Marc Savard and Tim Thomas are at a standstill. Michael Ryder and his $4 million salary could be a cap casualty. Chiarelli has said he won’t buyout players. Ryder would be a $1.33 million cap hit the next 2 seasons if they bought him out, which might not help out as much as they need. His contract may make it hard to find a trade partner. They could put him through waivers and send him to the minors. Ownership may not want to pay $4 million to someone in the minors, and there is a chance that Ryder would be unhappy and have a negative influence on their prospects.
- Jimmy Murphy via twitter: Accroding to La Presse, if Antti Niemi’s arbitration ruling is too high, they’ll look to trade him and sign Jose Theodore.
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: The Rangers are about $6.7 million under the cap, with Marc Staal still unsigned, and the need for possibly another defenseman. Wade Redden could be waived during camp. It’s believed that Frolov turned down a 4 year, $18-20 million deal from the Rangers to sign a 1 year deal with the Rangers.
- David Pagnotta via twitter: Even after signing Alexei Ponikarovsky, the Kings may still look to add another top guy.
- Alessandro Seren Rosso of RussianHockeyFans: Alexander Radulov’s KHL contract runs out after this season, and it looks like he’ll be heading back to Nashville next year to play out the remaining year with the Predators under is old NHL contract.
- Genadi Boguslavski via twitter: 2010 St. Louis Blues 1st round draft pick, Vladimir Tarasenko, is still deciding if he’ll play in the KHL or head to St. Louis. Andy Strickland says that the Blues expect Tarasenko to play in Russia this year.
- Craig Custance via twitter: The Phoenix Coyotes are talking with the Lee Stempniak, they’d like him back at the ‘right price’.
League to look at other long-term deals? More ‘Hawks Options … Turco to decide in 7-10 days
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on July 28th, 2010
- William DePoali via twitter: Gary Bettman said yesterday that if the league wins its case against Ilya Kovalchuk, they may look in to other long-term deals.
- Richard Durrett of ESPN Dallas: According to his agent, Marty Turco is going to play for a contending team next season. He has 3 potential landing spots, and will make a decision in the next 7 to 10 days.
- Jesse Rogers of ESPN Chicago: The Blackhawks and Antti Niemi have submitted their written briefs before their Thursday arbitration hearing. The ‘Hawks would like to keep Niemi but it all comes down to the price. One option to save cap space would be to go with a 21 man roster (2 below the max, which most carry), with the 21st player being able to play both forward and defense. If Niemi’s salary is below $2.5 million (and Victor Stalberg is sent to minors, saving $300K) they could do that (they’d also have a $1 million cushion for injuries). If the number is between $2.5 and $3 million, they’d have to make another move. If it’s over $3 million, he may not be their starting goalie next season. Marty Turco could be an option if they lose Niemi, they might be able to get him between $2 and $2.5 million.
- Chric Kuc of the Chicago Tribune: Niemi is likely seeking between $3 and $4 million a season, the ‘Hawks probably closer to $2 million. The ‘Hawks could accept any ruling either way, and look to trade him, or someone else.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: The Boston Bruins are talking to Bill Guerin, but would need to make a roster move first. Penguins are still interested in him.
- Michael Arace of the Colubus Dispatch: (written before the Blue Jackets and Anton Stralman settled before their arbitration, 1 year, $1.95 million.) The Blue Jackets will look to improve their defense, and will look via trades and not free agency. 3 options could be Tomas Kaberle, Kevin Bieksa and Sheldon Souray. Arace believes the Blue Jackets have made a pitch for Kaberle, inquired about Bieksa, and made a ‘token’ call about Souray. Nikita Filatov’s name probably would come up.
- Tim Benz of Inside Pittsburgh Sports: Penguins GM Ray Shero hasn’t completely ruled out bringing Bill Guerin back next season, and is still in touch with him. But at the moment they are looking at young kids to fill the holes.
- James Mirtle via twitter: Alexei Ponikarovsky signed a 1 year deal with the Kings (for $3.2 million cap hit). He wanted a 4 year from the Leafs on a ‘big ticket’ when he was with them.
- Michael Russo via twitter: Willie Mitchell could be a possibility for the Wild, but he’s not looking to take physicals just yet.
- William DePoali via twitter: Raffi Torres is getting some interest lately according to his agent.
Alexander Frolov signs with the New York Rangers
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News on July 27th, 2010
TSN: Alexander Frolov has reached a 1-year deal with the New York Rangers. Frolov will take a $1 million pay cut, signing for $3 million.
Frolov turned down a 4 year, $20 million contract from the KHL. He wanted to play 1 more season in the NHL before deciding his long-term future.
In 536 career games he’s scored 168 goals and added 213 assists for 381 points.
Coyotes Sale in Trouble? Wheeler, Niemi Heading to Arbitration … Frolov to Rangers
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on July 27th, 2010
- SpectorsHockey via twitter: 17 teams have less then $10 million in cap space. 13 have less than $5 million. 13 teams with more than $10 million in cap space, most have ‘self-imposed’ cap ceilings.
- Rebekah L. Sanders and Cecilia Chan of the Arizona Republic: The city of Glendale is saying the Ice Edge Group have not complied with the terms to purchase the Phoenix Coyotes. Ice Edge and the NHL say the deal is going forward. The group were to submit financial documents to gain exclusivity on negotiations with the city, but haven’t sent all documents, 5 weeks past the imposed deadline. Glendale and Ice Edge had hoped to have negotiations closed by the August 6th. Ice Edge believe they have submitted the documents that meet the requirements. The city claims the exclusivity rights are done, so in theory, they and the NHL, could entertain other offers. Bill Daly shot down rumors on Friday that the deal was in trouble.
- James Mirtle via twitter: Antti Niemi’s arbitration date is set for Thursday. If he is awarded more than $3 million, Mirtle thinks they should walk away and sign either Turco or Theodore.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: Kovalchuk decision could be made as early as next week. Arbitrator should be chosen by today.
- Helene Elliott via twitter: After Kovalchuk and another move fell through for the LA Kings, the Kings went back to Alexander Frolov, he said no.
- Michael Obernauer of the NY Daily News: Alexander Frolov’s agent has said that they have a 1-year deal in place with the New York Rangers. Another source said they weren’t quite there yet. Frolov was close to heading to the KHL, but he wanted to stay in the NHL. He’ll take a short deal this summer, in hopes of getting a long term next year.
- Douglas Flynn of NESN: Blake Wheeler and the Boston Bruins are set to go to arbitration today. Wheeler had a cap hit last season of $2.825 million including bonuses. The Bruins could use David Perron’s 2 year, $4.3 million as a comparable. Wheeler’s agent could use Nikolai Kulemin’s 2 year, $4.7 as a comparable, with Wheeler having better numbers over the last 2 years. Clarke MacAthur was awarded $2.5 million with lesser numbers that Wheeler, the Thrashers walked away.
- James Mirtle via twitter: According to Teemu Selanne and Paul Kariya’s agent, Don Baizley, they are still deciding on whether to play or not.
- Roman Augustoviz of the Star-Tribune: Nick Leddy, acquired by the Blackhawks from the Wild for Cam Barker last season, should decide in the next week if he’ll be turning pro and leaving the Gophers.
NHLPA files grievance … NHL Rumors involving Frolov, Ponikarovsky, Sutton, Wheeler, Stralman
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on July 26th, 2010
- NHLPA.com: Media release from the NHLPA stating they’ve filed a grievance against the NHL for the rejection of Ilya Kovalchuk-New Jersey Devils contract.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: August 1st is when the Maple Leafs could be pushing clubs to make their best Tomas Kaberle offer, if not, he could remain a Leaf.
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: Mason Raymond locked up by the Canucks for 2 years, $5.1 million ($2.5 and $2.6 mill.)
- William DePaoli via twitter: Alexei Ponikarovsky mulling an offer he’s received in the last 72 hours.
- William DePaoli via twitter: The Rangers have spoken with Ponikarovsky’s agent, but they are in talks with Alexander Frolov.
- Arthur Staple (Newsday) via twitter: Alexander Frolov has a 4-year contract offer from the KHL, and likely a 2 year deal for less money from the Rangers.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: The Avalanche are about $8 million below the $43.8 cap floor, with RFA’s Peter Mueller and Chris Stewart left to re-sign. There is no rush to sign the two, but it’s expected to happen at some point.
- Chris Botta via twitter: It’s down to 2 western teams for Andy Sutton’s services, could be finalized this week.
- Jimmy Murphy via twitter: The Bruins and Blake Wheeler will be going to arbitration tomorrow as they were unable to to get something done beforehand.
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: The Columbus Blue Jackets have requested a 1-year arbitration ruling for the Anton Stralman hearing, giving them the option to walk away from the contract if they are not happy with the ruling.
Frolov getting interest from Rangers and Kings … Other Russian FA’s … Tampa Bay Lightning talk
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Videos on July 26th, 2010
- Genadi Boguslavski via twitter: The New York Rangers have talked to Alexander Frolov’s agent.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Frolov’s agent has said the Rangers are very interested, and the LA Kings have shown interest in the last couple days.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: SKA of the KHL are interested in Alexander Frolov, Maxim Afinogenov, Denis Grebeskov and Ilya Kovalchuk according KHL President Medvedev (who owns the team).
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Medvedev to Kovalchuk, “Listen to a woman and do completely the opposite.”
- The Hockey News video: Ryan Dixon, Ryan Kennedy, and Adam Proteau talk about the Tampa Bay Lightning. How Yzerman will fill out the roster, Victor Hedman’s development, Vinny Lecavalier, and Brett Connolly.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: The St. Louis Blues and Eric Johnson are getting close on an extension.
Canucks to be $4 million over cap … Devils could get fined … Stralman-Jackets far apart
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on July 25th, 2010
- Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun: The league did try to get a maximum of 5 year and 7 year contracts in the last CBA, but the PA wouldn’t go for it unless they were granted other terms. If the Maple Leafs found takers for Jeff Finger and Mikhail Grabovski, their free cap room number would be about $8 million. The Vancouver Canucks could be about $4 million over the cap after Mason Raymond’s arbitration case this week.
- Mark Everson of the NY Post: There is the possibility that the NHL will fine the New Jersey Devils a $1 million (up to $5 million) for circumventing the CBA. Kovalchuk could get between $250,000 and a $1 million fine. The NHLPA has until tomorrow afternoon to file a grievance.
- Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: The Blue Jackest and Anton Stralman are about $1 million apart, arbitration is set for Wednesday. If Stralman’s ruling is too high, the club may walk away.
- Craig Custance of the Sporting News: Paul Martin took a 5 year, $25 million deal from the Penguins on July 1st over other offers from Los Angeles, New Jersey, Minnesota, and Toronto.
- Mike Harrington of the Buffalo News: The Sabres continue to talk with Tim Kennedy, his arbitration hearing is set for July 27th. The Sabres don’t have any trade talks going on at the moment.
- William DePaoli (insidepghsports) via twitter: The Penguins haven’t talked to Paul Kariya, and it’s probably not going to happen.
Salo out, Bieksa staying? Ryan and Wisniewski still unsigned … Kariya to the Kings?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on July 24th, 2010
- Craig Custance of the Sporting News: Don’t wait for Bobby Ryan to sign an offer sheet with someone. “Bobby wants to remain in Anaheim and they want him there,” Guy (Ryan’s agent) told Sporting News. The Ducks would match most offer sheets.
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: James Wisniewski is set to go to arbitration on August 3rd. Wisniewski’s agents wouldn’t rule out the possibility of getting something done before the 3rd. Bob Murray, the Ducks GM, expects to go to arbitration. Last year, the sides signed a 1 year deal before to avoid the process, but don’t look for that to happen this year.
- The Vancouver Province: Sami Salo will be out for at least 3 months with a torn achilles tendon while playing floorball (similar to floor hockey) in Finland. The Canucks have 9 defenseman locked up, 6 make more than $3.25 million.
- Brad Ziemer of the Vancouver Sun: With Salo out until Christmas, the Canucks may not be able to live without both Salo and Kevin Bieksa. Canucks GM Mike Gillis had hoped to swap Bieksa for a top 6 forword, but may now have to look to free agency to add some scoring.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Paul Kariya looking for ‘right fit…’ Los Angeles Kings?
Options for ‘Hawks if Niemi isn’t back … Stars would match most offer sheets for Neal
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on July 23rd, 2010
Jesse Rogers of ESPNChicago: There hasn’t been much progress between the Chicago Blackhawks and Antti Niemi. Niemi’s arbitration date is set for July 29th (arbitration dates for all players). They could still trade him before the arbitration date, walk away from the ruling if they don’t like it, or possibly trade him after they accept the 1-year deal.
Jesse Rogers of ESPNChicago: Blackhawk options if they lose Niemi: Corey Crawford could be the “best and most likely option.” Some organizational members liked him better than Niemi, and he makes $800,000. Marty Turco has already turned down $2 million a season from Philly, so he might be too expensive for Chicago. A lower salary for a chance to win the cup could sway him. Turco is talking with a couple teams, and has turned down more than Philly. Jose Theodore had a great record but a bad GAA last year, his career is on the tail end, and he’d have to take a big cut from his $4.5 salary (which he’d have to do anyways if he wants to stay in the NHL). Vesa Toskala (not if they want a shot at winning the cup next year) has a winning record every season except for last year. Would have to take a pay cut from $4 million. Has options in Europe if no one in the NHL wants him. Ray Emery could be cheap option, but he’s coming off hip surgery.
Helene Elliott via twitter: Ducks GM Bob Murray and Teemu Selanne have talked this week, and plan to speak again next week, no decision yet on if he’ll return or retire.
Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: The Dallas Stars would match reasonable offer sheets for James Neal, if he were to sign one. If the deal was front loaded, it might be difficult, but they would probably find a way to do it. If the offer was for over $4.638 million, they might consider taking the 2011 1st, 2nd, and 3rd round picks (compensation for signing RFA’s). If RFA’s are not signed by Dec. 1st, they are ineligible for the remainder of the season.
Damian Cristodero of the St. Petersberg Times: The Tampa Bay Lightning have shown mild interest in Aaron Asham. Asham could bring some toughness.
Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Colorado have been checking out Andrew Cogliano’s availability.
Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Dmitry thinks that Alexander Radulov could be back in the NHL next year (2011-12).
Aaron Portzline via twitter: Nikita Filatov and Blue Jackets coach Scott Arniel will speak in the next couple days. Arniel says “I’m going to let him do most of the talking, but I’ll have something to say at the end of the conversation.“
The Saga continues ….
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on July 22nd, 2010
SportsNet – HockeyCentral with Daren Milard, Mike Brophy and John Shannon
Mark Everson of the NY Post: Before the Devils had the Kovalchuk press conference announcing the signing, they had already known that contract would be rejected by the NHL. “The Devils apparently went through with their press conference in order to seal their position and set in motion the chain of events that likely will lead to arbitration, which is expected to force the NHL to accept and register the deal.” It’s up to the NHLPA to file a grievance, not the NJ Devils. It doesn’t appear that fines will be placed on the Devils or on Kovalchuk for ‘circumvention penalties’. The team could be fined between $1 and $5 million, $250,00 to $1 million on the player.
Eric Duhatschek of the Globe and Mail: To fix the Kovalchuk deal, the Devils/Kovalchuk can make a few quick adjustments. They could take off the final 2 years of the contract, and up the salary to $1 million for the final 3 years of the deal. He’d be 42 years old when the contract is done, the same age as Hossa will be when his deal expires (same with Prongers). The problem for the Devils would be that it would raise the salary cap number up to about $6.8 million from $6.0 million.
Helene Elliott of the LA Times: Elliott confirms the Kings would be interested in Kovalchuk if the opportunity presents itself again. The union could file a grievance, but must do so by Monday. If they do, it could to an arbitrator (but there is no arbitrator in place). If the arbitrator decided the deal violates the CBA, he would become a unrestricted free agent again.
Rich Hammond of LA Kings Insider: Kings GM Dean Lombardi has said the team would still be interested in Ilya Kovalchuk if he becomes a free agent again.
5 teams interested in Bieksa … Johnson-Blues making progress … No progress on Wheeler
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on July 22nd, 2010
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: The Anaheim Ducks could now be targeting Canucks defenseman, Kevin Bieksa. The Kings, Sharks, Blue Jackets, and the Montreal Canadiens have also shown interest. If Bieksa doesn’t work out, they could also look at Edmonton’s Sheldon Souray, if they’d take Jason Blake’s contract back.
- Ben Kuzma of the Vancouver Province: Passes on the rumor that Montreal Canadiens are interested in Kevin Bieksa, and that 2010 1st round pick Jarred Tinordi could be headed the other way. The Canucks like Tinordi, but I doubt the Canadiens would go for it.
- Jeremy Rutherford via twitter: Eric Johnson and the St. Louis Blues are getting closer on a contract extension, but there is still work to do.
- James Murphy special to ESPNBoston: Blake Wheeler’s arbitration date is set for July 27th, and there hasn’t been any progress in recent talks. The two sides will meet again this weekend.
- Chris Vivlamore via twitter: Slava Kozlov still hopes to play in the NHL next season, if not, he’ll head back to Russia.
- Ben Wright of Bluelandblog: The Atlanta Thrashers walked away from Clarke MacArthur’s $2.4 million arbitration ruling. They have 12 forwards locked up, with prospects looking to crack the lineup: Spencer Machacek, Patrice Cormier, Carl Klingberg and Alex Burmistrov.
A comparison of NHL Contracts that are front-loaded
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on July 21st, 2010
After the Kovalchuk contract rejection by the NHL for circumventing the cap, we’ve put together a chart showing the salary numbers for contracts that have been called in to question for being front-loaded, but were allowed to go through.
- Johan Franzen, Red Wings, 11 years, $43.5M ($3.9M cap hit), Signed April 2009
Henrik Zetterberg, Red Wings, 12 years, $73M ($6M cap hit), Signed January 2009
Marian Hossa, Blackhawks, 12 years, $62.8M ($5.23M cap hit), Signed July 2009
Roberto Luongo, Canucks, 12 years, $64M ($5.3M cap hit), Signed September 2009
Chris Pronger, Flyers, 7-year extension, $34.9M ($5M cap hit), Signed July 2009
Marc Savard, Bruins, 7-year extension, $28.05M ($4M cap hit), Signed Dec. 2009
Players current age is in brackets.
| Season |
Kovalchuk (27)
|
Pronger (35)
|
Savard (32)
|
Hossa (31)
|
Luongo (31)
|
Franzen (30)
|
Zetterberg (29)
|
| 2010-11 |
$6 mill
|
$7.6 mill
|
$7 mill
|
$7.9 mill
|
$10 mill
|
$5 mill
|
$7.75 mill
|
| 2011-12 |
$6 mill
|
$7.6 mill
|
$7 mill
|
$7.9 mill
|
$6.716 mill
|
$5.25 mill
|
$7.75 mill
|
| 2012-13 |
$11.5 mill
|
$7.2 mill
|
$6.5 mill
|
$7.9 mill
|
$6.714 mill
|
$5.25 mill
|
$7.75 mill
|
| 2013-14 |
$11.5 mill
|
$7 mill
|
$5 mill
|
$7.9 mill
|
$6.714 mill
|
$5 mill
|
$7.5 mill
|
| 2014-15 |
$11.5 mill
|
$4 mill
|
$1.5 mill
|
$7.9 mill
|
$6.714 mill
|
$5 mill
|
$7.5 mill
|
| 2015-16 |
$11.5 mill
|
$525,000
|
$525,000
|
$7.9 mill
|
$6.714 mill
|
$5 mill
|
$7.5 mill
|
| 2016-17 |
$11.5 mill
|
$525,000
|
$525,000
|
$4 mill
|
$6.714 mill
|
$3.5 mill
|
$7 mill
|
| 2017-18 |
$10.5 mill
|
$1 mill
|
$6.714 mill
|
$2 mill
|
$3.5 mill
|
||
| 2018-19 |
$8.5 mill
|
$1 mill
|
$3.382 mill
|
$1 mill
|
$1 mill
|
||
| 2019-20 |
$6.5 mill
|
$750,000
|
$1.618 mill
|
$1 mill
|
$1 mill
|
||
| 2020-21 |
$3.5 mill
|
$750,000
|
$1 mill
|
||||
| 2021-22 |
$750,000
|
$1 mill
|
|||||
| 2022-23 |
$550,000
|
||||||
| 2023-24 |
$550,000
|
||||||
| 2024-25 |
$550,000
|
||||||
| 2025-26 |
$550,000
|
||||||
| 2026-27 |
$550,000
|
Salaries from NHLnumbers.com
Kovalchuk frenzy take 2
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on July 21st, 2010
- TSN: The Ilya Kovalchuk deal was rejected by the NHL because the “NHL does not believe that either Kovalchuk nor the Devils expected the 2004 Rocket Richard trophy winner would be playing near end of the contract and that it is a case of artificially lowering the annual average value of the contract.” Deals must be negotiated in good faith that the player will fulfill the entire duration of the contract. Section 26.3 of the CBA:
(a) No Club or Club Actor, directly or indirectly, may: (i) enter into any agreements, promises, undertakings, representations, commitments, inducements, assurances of intent, or understandings of any kind, whether express, implied, oral or written, including without limitation, any SPC, Qualifying Offer, Offer Sheet or other transaction, or (ii) take or fail to take any action whatsoever, if either (i) or (ii) is intended to or has the effect of defeating or Circumventing the provisions of this Agreement or the intention of the parties as reflected by the provisions of this Agreement, including without limitation, provisions with respect to the financial and other reporting obligations of the Clubs and the League, Team Payroll Range, Player Compensation Cost Redistribution System, the Entry Level System and/or Free Agency.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: “If NJ doesn’t refile and the NHLPA doesn’t grieve, Kovy will be a UFA. If the PA grieves, his future is up in the air pending resolution.”
- Greg Wyshynski via twitter: Every source that Wyshynski has talked to (as of late last night) thinks that the Devils will meet with the NHL to restructure the deal, rather than having the NHLPA going to battle with the NHL.
- Jimmy Murphy via twitter: Rejection of deal may be another sign that there might be a 2012-13 season.
- Tim Gulitti of the Bergon County Record: (worth a read, writen before the contract fallout) Lou Lamoriello doesn’t think that contracts like the Ilya Kovalchuk signed should be part of the NHL, but says that everything is within the rules of the CBA.
“I might agree,” he said. “But there is nothing that we have done wrong. This is within the rules. This is in the CBA. There are precedents that have been set. But I would agree we shouldn’t have these. But I’m also saying that because it’s legal and this is something that ownership felt comfortable doing for the right reasons.”
It sounds like Lou may not have been a fan of bringing Kovalchuk back with the huge contract.
So why would he sign Kovalchuk to such a deal?.
“You’d have to speak to ownership about that,” Lamoriello said. “The commitment that ownership has made here, this is a commitment and a decision they wanted to make for this type of a player and all I can do is say whether the player is a player that will fit into the team, can help the team and is not a risk as a player. As far as what the financial commitment is and that aspect of it, that was out of my hands.”
Semin staying … Spezza happy … Columbus interested in Bieksa/Kaberle … Kings shopping Williams/Stoll
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on July 21st, 2010
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: An NHL GM told LeBrun that he heard that in the next CBA they’ll look to have the average of the five highest salaried years count against the cap. That’s one of several ideas that’s being tossed around.
- Dennis Bernstein (TFP) via twitter: Alexander Semin is not going anywhere.
- Don Brennan of the Ottawa Sun: Jason Spezza once again has said he happy in Ottawa and hopes to stay there.
- Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: If Anton Stralman gets a ‘hefty’ salary from arbitration next Monday, the Blue Jackets may walk away from it. GM Scott Howson may start investigating other options, possibly Kevin Bieksa and Tomas Kaberle. There is a chance that the Blue Jackets could dangle Nikita Filatov as bait. For Bieksa they probably wouldn’t have to offer Filatov, a lesser prospect could work, unless the Canucks added more than Bieksa for Filatov. It’s not known if Filatov is the kind of player Burke is interested in. The Blue Jackets are reluctant to break up their top-6 forwards, which is what Burke covets for Kaberle.
- NHLSourcesSay via twitter: Ryan Johnson and the Columbus Blue Jackets are closing in on a deal, 1 year between $850,000 and $900,000.
- NHLSourcesSay via twitter: Sources saying that Los Angeles Kings are shopping Justin Williams and Jarret Stoll.
- Genadi Boguslavski (sovsport.ru) via twitter: Jose Theodore getting interest from a few KHL teams.
- Genadi Boguslavski via twitter: Maxim Afinogenov getting interest from KHL, but will focus on NHL until August 1st.
- Michael Russo via twitter: Rumors that Nick Leddy could be heading back to the Blackhawks are untrue. Wild and Leddy are talking. In 2-3 weeks, it could be different though.
NHL Rejects Ilya Kovalchuk – New Jersey Devils Deal
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on July 20th, 2010
TSN: The NHL has rejected the contract between the New Jersey Devils and Ilya Kovalchuk as “it circumvents the NHL’s salary cap.”
I understand why the NHL did this, but I don’t understand how they can do after letting so many deals that “circumvent the NHL’s salary cap”. From my understanding, Lou followed the ‘rules’ of the CBA, so what grounds are there to reject it? I look forward to reading the NHL’s explanation.
Life after the Kovalchuk signing … Other pieces will begin to fall
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on July 20th, 2010
Kevin McGran of the Toronto Star: Don’t expect a Tomas Kaberle trade this week as GM Brian Burke has gone fishing for the week. He did have this to say before he left, “The number of offers are up to six but we’re not in a position where we think any of them are good enough,” said Burke. “We’re still in a holding pattern.” The Lightning at one point were dangling Ryan Malone. Burke would not comment on Marc Savard. If he is interested, he’ll most likely wait until after Kaberle is traded as he may not need a center of Savard’s caliber.
Rob Longley of the Toronto Sun: The LA Kings may come calling the Maple Leafs for puck moving Dman Tomas Kaberle, to play along side Drew Doughty. Longley throws out the idea of Brayden Schenn coming back to Toronto.
Randy Youngman of the OC Register: The Ducks and Bobby Ryan are fine with $5 million a year, but Ryan wants less term than the 5 years the Ducks are proposing. Ryan would like 3 years, but that would mean his contract would expire at the same time as Perry’s and Getzlaf’s. 3 years would also leave Ryan as an RFA, 4 years he would be a UFA.
NHLSourcesSay via twitter: Leafs were interested in Bobby Ryan, but Ducks have told all teams they want to sign him.
Dave Gross of the Vancouver Province: Gross mentions players who the Devils could possibly trade to get under the cap: Brian Rolston, 2 years at $5 million. Travis Zajac is at $3.89 million season (I doubt they’d move him, would be a last resort). Dainius Zubrus makes $3.4 million the next 3 seasons. Colin White will make $3 million the next 2 years. Bryce Salvador will make $2.9 million the next 2 years.
EJ Hradek via Twitter: Jamie Langenbrunner could be trade bait for the Devils. He’s at $2.8 million and a no-trade clause, but he should get some interest.
Jeff Marek via twitter: There could be a new style of play in New Jersey next season, more ‘up-tempo’, less trap.
Adam Jahns of the Chicago Sun-Times: Blackhawks GM Stan Bowman has told Patrick Sharp that “he’s not going anywhere.” They are still working on Antti Niemi, no solution, but have ideas.
Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: Mike Modano will start skating on August 5th, and won’t make a decision to return or not before that.
Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Alexander Frolov has begun contract talks with KHL’s Salavat Yulaef.
Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: After the seeing what the Flyers got for Simon Gagne (Matt Walker and a 4th), the Oilers may not expect to get much back for Sheldon Souray. There’s not a big market for Souray, with his $5.4 million cap hit for the next 2 years, and his health concerns. The Oilers may look to teams who are sitting around the salary cap floor: Atlanta, NY Islanders, Colorado, and St. Louis. They may ask the Oilers to throw in a young player or pick to take back the salary.
John Boruk via Twitter: Aaron Asham could be signed by the end of the week, Philly a possibility.
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