Morning Hits: Coyotes, Richards, Lecavalier, NHL Schedule, Quebec City, Shanahan and Messier
  • John Shannon: Gary Bettman and Bill Daly warn the City of Glendale for the second time in three weeks that if a deal isn’t done by July 2nd, the team will relocate.
  • Chris Johnson: A decision on if the Rangers will be buying out Brad Richards is “coming shortly.”
  • Elliotte Friedman: Vincent Lecavalier: “It’s a tough day, but I’m so motivated…to go somewhere else and prove I can still play at a high level.”
  • Chris Johnston: The NHL has made up multiple schedules for the Coyotes, Seattle, etc scenarios. Should be released in mid July.
  • Chris Johnston: When asked if Quebec City was still in play, Bill Daly said: “I wouldn’t rule it out.”
  • Renaud Lavoie: Brendan Shanahan will stay with the NHL rather than take a job with the Flames.
  • NY Rangers: Mark Messier will be leaving the Rangers.

    “I would like to thank the New York Rangers and particularly Glen Sather for giving me the opportunity over the last four years to work with the Rangers. I am resigning my position with the Team to pursue an opportunity to expand the game of hockey in the New York area by developing the Kingsbridge National Ice Center. Although some will perceive this as a reaction to the coaching decision, nothing could be further from the truth. I completely respect the decision that was made and for all the reasons it was made. I harbor no hard feelings toward Glen or the Rangers. This is a personal choice I am making to create a program in the New York area that will give our children more choices and opportunities in the future. I wish the Rangers nothing but the best in the future.“