- Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer: Hurricanes Eric Staal said he hasn’t held any preliminary talks with GM Ron Francis about a contract extension.
“I’m not worried about it, to be honest.”
Staal will become a UFA after next season and could sign an extension after July 1st. He carries a $8.25 million cap hit and will make $9.5 million next season.
“I’m not sure what their plans are or what lies ahead,” Staal said. “I love being here. I love this team, the people, the fans.
“Sure, I would love to be part of the group that gets back to the playoffs and another chance at the Stanley Cup. Whether they feel I’m a part of that will be determined in the future. But as of right now I have another year on my contract and I’ll be here to perform to the best of my abilities.”
Staal has a no-trade clause. He said he wouldn’t stand in the way of trade, but added:
“Depending on where I was being shipped off to. I’m not going to answer questions where I don’t know what (management) is thinking.”
- Rory Boylen of Sportsnet: Cox: Changes could be made by the Maple Leafs starting on Monday.Elliotte Friedman said that Oilers won’t be breaking up their core.
“He has informed Taylor Hall, Jordan Eberle and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins not to worry about listening to rumours because those players will not be traded. He said you can add Nail Yakupov to that list as well,” Friedman reported. “He believes very strongly that these are players, and the types of players that they are other teams have given up on too early. He doesn’t want to make the same mistakes and he wants to give them a chance to grow together.”
There was talk that Penguins Kris Letang might consider retiring due to his health, but have been told that, that is not the case.
Robyn Regehr will retire.
Daniel Briere’s future is uncertain. He could retire.
The cap could come down to around $68 million next year. The NHL and NHLPA may meet to come up with number. Friedman guessing $70 million.
