Archive for category NHL News
Radulov and A. Kostitsyn Suspended by Predators … Kovalchuk out for Game 2 … Devils and Flyers lines
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Suspensions on May 1st, 2012
- Predators on NHL.com: The Predators have suspended Alexander Radulov and Andrei Kostitsyn for Game 3 for violating team rules.
“The Nashville Predators have a few simple rules centered around doing the right things,” Poile said. “We have always operated with a team-first mentality and philosophy. Violating team rules is not fair to our team and their teammates.”
- Chris Stevenson via twitter: Rumors are that Radulov and Kostitsyn were out late before Game 2.
- Josh Cooper of the Tennessean: Predators GM David Poile:
“Pretty easy decision,” he said. “Our creed is always to try to do the right thing. I try to do that in my personal life, so I should try to do it in my business life, and we’ve just done the right thing. We put the team ahead of a couple of individual players and we’ll see where we go from there.”
“It’s just a team rule,” he said. “Everybody has the same team rules, and what they did was unacceptable, and coaches and myself had to come to the plate and do the right thing for the team.”
- Jim Diamond via twitter: Alexander Radulov:
“It was something I didn’t do right.” “They did what they had to (do).”
- Devils PR via twitter: Devils Ilya Kovalchuk is day-to-day and has been dealing with the injury since the 1st round. GM Lou Lamoriello said that Kovalchuk will miss Game 2.
- Rich Chere via twitter: Devils lines: Elias centers for Parise and Clarkson; Zajac centers for Sykora and Zubrus. D Peter Harrold on 4th line with Gionta and Carter.
- Adam Kimelman via twitter: Flyers lines: Hartnell-Giroux-Jagr, Read-Schenn-Simmonds, Rinaldo-Briere-Voracek, Talbot-Courturier-Wellwood.
Pietrangelo hopeful for Thursday, Halak out series … Could Ovie get traded? Canes looking to spend … Be “reasonable” Karlsson … Cheaper better for Leafs
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 1st, 2012
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Blues coach Ken Hitchcock is hopeful that defenseman Alex Pietrangelo can return on Thursday, but right now he’s listed as day-to-day.
- Dennis Bernstein via twitter: Hitchcock also said that Jaroslav Halak won’t return for the balance of this series.
- Randy Miller via twitter: Responding to a followers question: It “wouldn’t shock” Miller if the Capitals traded Alex Ovechkin.
- Luke DeCock of the Raleigh News & Observer: Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford has said he’s been given the green light to spend some money on a winger that is capable of playing with Eric Staal, and Zach Parise will be their #1 target. Detroit will be among many teams that will also be trying to sign him as well. If they can’t get Parise, they may wait a year and try to get Jordan Staal hits free agency, or they could try to make a deal with the Penguins beforehand if they decide they can’t re-sign him. There are 3 big names that they could look to trade for: Jarome Iginla, Rick Nash and Patrick Marleau. They may not having an interest in playing in Carolina though, and they wouldn’t be cheap.
- Peter Alder of the Edmonton Journal: Ak Bars Kazan of the KHL is trying to bring Blue Jackets Maxim Mayorov and Jets Alexander Burmistrov to the KHL. Burmistrov has 1 year left on his deal which will pay him $1.5 million. Paul Friesen of the Winnipeg Sun: Burmistrov’s agent:
“Nobody talked to me,” Mark Gandler said, Monday afternoon. “The guy is under contract. End of discussion.”
“If people in Edmonton want to print gossip from the Russian papers without checking sources … all it takes is two minutes to make a phone call,” he said. “They obviously didn’t do their homework.”
- Mike Brophy of Sportsnet: Brophy wonders if it would be better to spend the money on goalies UFA goalie like Antero Niittymaki, Chris Mason, Dan Ellis, Tomas Vokoun, Martin Biron, Josh Harding or Curtis Sanford than trading for Roberto Luongo’s and his contact. The Leafs could hope they get a preformance like Brian Elliott and Mike Smith, both who signed for minimal amount before this past season. The Lightning had put Smith on waivers with no takers last year. Burke doesn’t have the luxury of making a mistake though. If they miss the playoffs again, he’s time as the Leafs GM is likely over.
- Allen Panzeri of the Ottawa Citizen: Senators owner Eugene Melnyk cautions defenseman Erik Karlsson to be “reasonable” with his contract demands. Karlsson could be looking for a deal in the $6.5 to $7.5 million range. Other young top defenseman deals: Viktor Hedman – low $4 million per season, Shea Weber – 1 year deal at $7.5 million, Drew Doughty – 8 years and $56 million, Tyler Myers – 6 years and $33 million. GM Bryan Murray isn’t worried about negotiations.
- Kevin Kurz of CSNBayArea: Kurz wonders if Sharks Antti Niemi could be an option for the Blue Jackets. Niemi has 3 years left at a $3.8 million cap hit. The Sharks may revisit the Rick Nash trade talks this summer. The Sharks don’t have a lot of goalie depth. Thomas Greiss has proven he can at least be a backup in the NHL. Alex Stalock, Tyson Sexsmith and Harri Sateri are also in the organization.
- Pavel Lysenkov via twitter: Capitals prospect Evgeni Kuznetsov said he’ll stay with Traktor of the KHL for another 2 season. He added that he is not ready for the KHL just yet.
Pens should keep their “Big Three” … Dubinsky, Boyle updated … Seguin has detached tendon … Bruins offseason decisions
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on April 30th, 2012
- Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune Review: Rossi thinks the Penguins cannot abandon their “Big Three” formula of Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Jordan Staal because there aren’t many prospects worthy of playing with them or replacing one of them on the horizon. They have traded many prospects over the years to upgrade their current roster. Of the Penguins top 10 prospects, only 3 of them are forwards and none were drafted for 2010. In the next 2 years, Staal, Crosby, Letang and Malkin will be up for free agency.
- Andrew Gross of the Bergon Record: Rangers forward Brandon Dubinsky didn’t take part in the Rangers optional practice yesterday, and was seen around the practice facility on crutches. Forward Brian Boyle skated for the 3rd consecutive day, no timetable is set:
“I feel better each day but I don’t know what’s going to happen,” Boyle said. “There have been no setbacks. It’s progressed. But it’s not consistent with each guy, there are different symptoms. I’m trying to be honest with myself. But I wouldn’t have skated if I still felt foggy.”
- Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe: Bruins Tyler Seguin will likely have surgery on this left hand. Seguin suffered a detached tendon on March 15th. Doctors told him that he couldn’t do any more damage if he continued to play, he would just have to tolerate the pain.
- Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe: The Bruins may have trouble improving their top 6 due to a weak market, and may have better luck with their bottom 6. They’ll need to decide whether or not to trade Tim Thomas, as it could free up as much as $5 million off their cap. The Bruins will look to re-sign Chris Kelly and Gregory Campbell. Brian Rolston and Daniel Paille may be let loose. Benoit Pouliot is a RFA and will be looking for a raise. Currently only Shawn Thornton and Jordan Caron are under contract.
Sunday notes on Pietrangelo, Staal, Oilers, Lightning, Senators, Cleary, Coyotes, Leafs and Canucks
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on April 29th, 2012
- Dan O’Neill of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: Blues defenseman Alex Pietrangelo left in the 2nd period after being hit face first into the boards by Dwight King. He’ll be evaluated over tonight and an update should be given today.
- Rich Hammond of LA Kings Insider: From officiating supervisor Kay Whitmore on King’s hit:
Question: As far as the aftermath, Pietrangelo being cut, did that warrant a five-minute major?
WHITMORE: “In these situations, if a player is cut to the face, and it’s visible right away, instantly, they’ll call a major … in most cases. In this case, they didn’t see the cut, the small cut, under his chin from what I’ve been told until up to a minute or so after when they were over by the bench. So it was a delay, a period of time that went by, and it’s tough for them to go over and say, ‘It’s a major now’ … because they didn’t see it after the scrum. He got off the ice. There was no visible blood. If it was running down his forehead or his cheek, it’s automatic. It’s a major game-misconduct. In this instance, they didn’t see it initially right away. They didn’t see the blood running down his chin, in his beard … one of those things.”
- David Staple of the Edmonton Journal: Should the Oilers trade the 1st overall pick for Jordan Staal? (Poll: 141-No, 80-Yes) Speculation out there is that Staal could become available for the right price. Staple’s:
Staal is a big, strong and fairly aggressive two-way centre, still in his prime, capable of playing the toughest minutes. He won’t come cheap, but he’ll likely be worth the money over the next six or seven years if he can stay healthy.
He is exactly the kind of player the Oilers need at centre, giving the team an excellent one-two punch with Ryan Nugent-Hopkins. While the Oilers have been a weak team, the thought of playing with wingers like Jordan Eberle, Taylor Hall and Ales Hemsky might be enticing for Staal. He’d certainly have a bigger role here.
- Erik Erlendsson of the Tampa Tribune: The Lightning need to acquire a long-term goalie this offseason. They were acquiring assets in hope that they could do a deal with the Canucks for Cory Schneider, but now it appears that Schneider is staying. Roberto Luongo is expected to submit a list to Canucks with teams he’d be willing to accept a trade too, and the Lightning are expected to be on it. 10 years left on his deal may be too much of the Lightning, especially with Vinny Lecavalier’s contract, unless he’s apart of the deal. So their may not be a match for the Lightning and Canucks. Other possibilities could be: Tim Thomas (1 year left on contract), Tomas Vokoun (UFA), Jonathan Bernier, Josh Harding, Anders Lindback and Riku Helenius.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Senators GM Bryan Murray said they need to add a defenseman and maybe a top 6 forward to play with Kyle Turris.
“Our goaltending was really solid, we’ve got depth there, no question some decisions have to be made on the blueline. Offensively on the blueline, we’re really good,” said Murray. “We have to find out if one of these (UFAs) we have will come back and be solid or do we have to go get another guy? Up front, we’re always looking for somebody to step in and score goals. That line with (captain Daniel Alfredsson) played with Turris, if we had one more guy that could score consistently or be a 20-to-25 goal scorer would make our team different.”
Erik Karlsson may be looking for a deal in the $6.5-7.5 million per season range.
“I’m not worried about Erik. We’ll get a deal done. It’s not going to be hurried up by any means,” he said. “We’ll talk over the next few weeks, probably to his agent to start. There’s no immediate demand. We’re not playing for awhile.”
- Ian Mendes via twitter: Senators GM Bryan Murray said he won’t automatically qualify all of their RFAs. Bruce Garrioch via twitter: Murray also said that he may go shopping on July 1st to speed up the process of getting better.
- Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: Red Wings Danny Cleary will under knee surgery this week. He now wishes he had surgery on it last November is it got progressively worse over the season. The surgery will fix “significant issues — tears, loose cartilage, bone-on-bone, lot of fluid. The buildup of fluid was a major issue. I’m hoping to get it resolved.”
- Lisa Halverstadt of the Arizona Republic: Glendale’s chief negotiator told City Council last week that any deal to keep the Coyotes in Glendale will require millions of taxpayers money each year, and taking on the costs of managing the Jobing.com arena. It’s not the type of deal Glendale had envisioned when they built the arena.
- Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun: If the Maple Leafs and Cancuks talk about Roberto Luongo, and the Canucks had to take back a bad contract, they may rather have Matthew Lombardi over Mike Komisarek. Lou Lamoriello told Simmons that Zach Parise isn’t going anywhere, but others think he’ll sign with another team that has a chance at the cup.
Boyle and Dubinsky questionable … Chiarelli talks Bruins, Thomas … Could Stars look at Boyes? Oilers blueline
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on April 28th, 2012
- Brett Cyrgalis of the NY Post: Rangers forward Brian Boyle took part in a full-contract skate yesterday and is questionable for today. It was his first day back on the ice after suffering a concussion in Game 5. Brandon Dubinsky is also questionable with a leg injury he suffered in Game 7. Dubinsky hasn’t been practicing.
- Stephen Harris of the Boston Herald: Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli:
“From the makeover perspective, certainly we’re not going to do anything to make over this team,” said Chiarelli, who met the press alongside coach Claude Julien. “You’ve heard me talk about parity in this league. A first-round loss this year (for the Bruins), and there could be another Stanley Cup final next year. It’s that close.
“I’d like to maybe look at a forward to bolster our top-nine. That doesn’t mean we’re not going to look at re-signing (free agent Benoit) Pouliot or putting (Jordan) Caron up there (on a top line). But we’re going to look at the trade and free agent markets.
“But in the major-change front, I’m not looking to do anything like that. I’d like to add some pieces.
“We lost in the first round, after having won the Cup last year, (but) to me we can go after the Cup again next year. I have every confidence we can do that.”
It doesn’t sound like the Bruins will be looking at Zach Parise or Ryan Suter.
- Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe: Bruins forward Patrice Bergeron suffered an oblique injury in Game 3 and re-aggravated it in Game 5. He also had a broken nose. GM Chiarelli on Tim Thomas trade rumors:
“I know I’ve seen speculation about moving a goalie and all that stuff,” Chiarelli said. “Certainly, I’m not inclined to do that. Tim didn’t have, statistically, the year he had the year before. But I thought he had a very good year. We have, if not the best, one of the top two or three goalie tandems in the league.”
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: (mailbag) Heika notes that if the Stars decide move Mike Ribeiro and/or Branden Morrow, they could look at Brad Boyes as a replacement. Heika points out he has no knowledge if they plan on moving Ribeiro or Morrow, but if they wanted to shake things up, those 2 could be candidates.
- Jonathan Willis of the Edmonton Journal: Willis expands on Dejan Kovacevic’s article in the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review about how the Penguins blueline needs to be blown up, and that the Paul Martin and Zbynek Michalek signings haven’t worked out. Willis points out that either Martin or Michalek would help stabilize the Oilers blueline. The Oilers would have to include salary in any deal, and the Pens wouldn’t take on Shawn Horcoff’s contract. Other than Eric Belanger, the Oilers may not have an expendable player with a contract. So there may not be a good fit between the 2 teams. The Pens will likely want to get a meaningful asset back.
Grossman not cleared yet … 2 or 3 weeks for Habs GM? Alfie to take some time … Could Bruins trade Thomas? Seguin needs surgery
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on April 27th, 2012
- Dan Rosen via twitter: Flyers Nicklas Grossman said he hasn’t been cleared yet. Hopes to play on Sunday.
- Stu Hackel of Hockey Inisde/Out: Renaud Lavoie wrote that it’s possible that the Canadiens could have a new GM in place in the next 2 or 3 weeks.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Senators Daniel Alfredsson will take some time deciding his future:
“I will see how I feel physically and mentally after taking some time off.”
“This year has been unbelievable. I’ve had a lot of fun. It’s been great to be part of a great group of guys. They kept me upbeat and happy when I’m a grumpy old man. They’ve made this year very enjoyable.”
- Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe: Tim Thomas’s no-movement clause will expire on July 1st. Thomas has 1 year left on his 4 year, $20 million contract. Tuukka Rask will be a RFA on July 1st as well. If the Bruins were to move Thomas, Anton Khudobin would backup Rask if/when they re-sign him. If they moved Thomas’s $5 million cap hit, they could use the money elsewhere. Zach Parise will be a UFA, has played for Julien before, but may be looking for $7 million plus. Toronto, Chicago, Tampa Bay, Florida, Edmonton, and Columbus may be looking for goaltending help this summer. The Bruins may not get much return for Thomas due to age and contract, but would give the B’s cap relief.
- Fluto Shinzawa via twitter: Bruins Tyler Seguin needs surgery, likely on his left hand.
More on Luongo Rumors … Grossman could be ready for round 2 … Gill could return … Tarasenko decision soon
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on April 27th, 2012
- Gord McIntyre of the Vancouver Province: Canucks GM Mike Gillis said on Team 1040 that he hasn’t been given a list of teams that Roberto Luongo is willing to waive his no trade clause.
“We’ve met, but we’ve decided we’ll take our time and talk in the next few days over the phone,” Gillis said. “I’m not quite sure why something like that [the reports] would be out there.”
“I think we all need to take a deep breath,” Gillis said. “The early exit from the playoffs, not meeting our expectations, can lead you to make some pretty poor decisions in a real hurry.
“I think we all need to step back for a couple of days and not do anything – think about it then begin to plan out what we want to do with this team over the summer for the coming season.
“It’s a little premature to start down that path already.”
- Darren Dreger of TSN: It is believed that Luongo would prefer be traded to a Florida team. The Maple Leafs and Blackhawks are also on the list, though Luongo could be leery of heading to the competitive market of Toronto and the “emotional scars” that may exist with the Blackhawks. The Leafs, Blackhawks and Lightning could use goaltending help. The Canucks may have to take salary back to move Luongo. With regards to the Maple Leafs, the Canucks may have to take a contract like Mike Komisarek, who has 2 years at $4.5 million per.
- Damian Cristodero of the Tampa Bay Times: If Luongo was to make his way to Tampa Bay, the Canucks may have to take some salary back. Vinny Lecavalier is on a 11 year, $85 million deal. Many think that Ryan Malone and his $4.5 million cap hit could be key to a deal. Yzerman and Guy Boucher are big fans of him though. If they did move Lecavalier or Malone for Luongo, it would create an even bigger hole in their top 6. It’s an area they are already looking to improve, even before a potential trade.
- James Mirtle via twitter: One way for the Maple Leafs to fit Luongo into their salary cap would be to buy out Mike Komisarek and Matthew Lombardi/Colby Armstrong. In an ideal situation they would trade them.
- Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: Flyers Nicklas Grossmann took part in practice yesterday in a ‘contact’ jersey. It appears he’ll be ready to start of their round 2 series. Defenseman Andrej Meszaros skated for a bit at the end of practice wearing a back brace.
- Greg Sullivan of the Tennessean: Predators defenseman Hal Gill is progressing with his lower body injury.
“He’s moving pretty good,” Trotz said. “He’s practiced and he’s had a little more of the grind and the battles that he needed to have to see where he is. Right now he’s on track and I expect him to play in the series.”
- Andy Strickland of True Hockey: At the end of the IIHF World Championships, the Blues and their fans may find out if prospect Vladimir Tarasenko will sign with the team or head back to the KHL.
- Tom Reed via twitter: Reed points out that it’s easy to see why the Blue Jackets wanted to have Chris Kreider in a Rick Nash deal. If he wasn’t off the market then, he will be now.
Canucks need to lock up Schneider before dealing Luongo … More on Luongo … Theodore starts … Norris finalists
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Starting Goalies on April 26th, 2012
- Darren Dreger via twitte: Canucks Cory Schneider is 1 year away from being an unrestricted free agent and could easily demand 4 years and $4 million per season. Andy Strickland via twitter: The Canucks need to lock up Schneider before trading Luongo.
- Craig Custance via twitter: One GM noted that the return the Canucks get for Roberto Luongo may be better than we think. Only takes 2 teams to drive up the price. Jim Matheson via twitter: Tampa Bay already has 1 long contract in Vinny Lecavalier, would they really want another in Luongo? Matheson thinks they’ll look younger with Jonathan Bernier. Darren Dreger via twitter: Dreger thinks the Canucks will have to take a contract back in a Luongo trade. He’s still an elite goalie, but may only have 4 good years left and lots of term. James Mirtle via twitter: Mirtle points out (through capgeek) that you just can’t buy Luongo out after 6 year under the currently CBA:
SEASON SALARY CAP HIT BUYOUT SAVINGS BUYOUT CAP HIT 2018-19 $3,382,000 $5,333,333 $583,333 $2,798,667 $2,534,667 2019-20 $1,618,000 $5,333,333 $583,333 $1,034,667 $4,298,667 2020-21 $1,000,000 $5,333,333 $583,333 $416,667 $4,916,667 2021-22 $1,000,000 $5,333,333 $583,333 $416,667 $4,916,667 2022-23 $0 $0 $583,333 -$583,333 $583,333 2023-24 $0 $0 $583,333 -$583,333 $583,333 2024-25 $0 $0 $583,333 -$583,333 $583,333 2025-26 $0 $0 $583,333 -$583,333 $583,333
- Harvey Fialkov via twitter: Jose Theodore will start for the Panthers and Jason Garrison will be back in the lineup.
- Scott Cullen via twitter: Norris finalists: Erik Karlsson, Shea Weber and Zdeno Chara.
Random NHL Facts
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on April 26th, 2012
#RandomNHLfact posted by @NHLHistoryGirl today. Jen is an excellent twitter follow for NHL random facts and history tidbits.
- December 15, 2010, Nicklas Lidstrom recorded his 1st career hat trick, at 40 years of age, making him oldest player to do so.
- P.J. Stock tried to interview his pet hamster Richard Gere on-air when he was a co-host for CHOM-FM radio.
- Mark Recchi won his first #StanleyCup in 1991. #Bruins teammate Tyler Seguin hadn’t been born yet.
- The 1989 Calgary #Flames were the first relocated #NHL team to win the #StanleyCup. They began as the Atlanta Flames.
- In 1990, #Caps John Druce notched 14 goals and 3 assists in 15 playoff games. Rest of his career: 6 pts in 37 playoff games.
- Historically, teams holding a 2-1 Final series lead have won the Cup 34 of 39 times, or 87 % of the time.
- In 1990, #Caps John Druce notched 14 goals and 3 assists in 15 playoff games. Rest of his career: 6 pts in 37 playoff games.
- The 1990-91 Minnesota North Stars were the last sub-.500 team to play in the Cup Final.
- The #Flyers have only swept 3 best-of-7-series in franchise history. #NYR in 1995, #Leafs in 1975 & Atlanta Flames in1974.
Jen is running a 10K race in memory of Derek Boogaard for the Defending the Blue Line, a charity that Boogaard was involved with. She is looking to raise at least $500 (hopefully a lot more) and we are trying to help her out.
We’ve put up a banner in the right navigation that will direct you to her donation page or just click here.
From her site, NHLhistoryGirl.com on why she is running:
The people at DTBL do amazing work to support military families who want to participate in hockey. I support them because I come from a family with a long history of military service; like Boogaard, I once had hopes of joining the armed forces. Supporting DTBL is a way to meaningfully show appreciation not just to the military, but to their families who sacrifice much as well.
About Defending the Blue Line:
Our mission at Defending The Blue Line (DTBL) is ensuring that children of military members are afforded every opportunity to participate in the game of hockey. We accomplish this by providing free equipment for military kids, hockey camps, special events, and financial assistance for registration fees and other costs associated with hockey. Defending The Blue Line is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization DTBL Tax ID# 27-0711063.
Luongo to submit list … Thomas could hit market as well … Stars may look at Nash … Could Hawks gauge interest in Keith or Sharp?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on April 26th, 2012
- James Duthie via twitter: Sources are saying that Roberto Luongo will submit a short list of teams the he would waive his no-trade clause to go to next week. The Maple Leafs will be on it. Nick Kypreos via twitter: The Canucks didn’t even have to ask Luongo to waive his no-trade. He tells them during his exit meeting with he wants out of Vancouver. Dan Murphy via twitter: Murphy confirms that the Maple Leafs will be on Luongo’s list. Tampa Bay will also be on it. James Mirtle of the Globe and Mail: Mirtle thinks that the Canucks and their fans should expect a homerun if they trade Luongo. There are not a lot of teams that will be interested, and he has 10 years left on his contract. Tim Thoams, Miikka Kiprusoff and others could become available. Mirtle thinks if the Canucks could get a late 1st rounder or a middling prospect, it could be a fair deal. They might even have to take back some salary. Steve Buffery of the Toronto Sun: Buffery doesn’t think trading for Luongo is a good idea. “Besides the fact he’s 33 years old and has 10 more years in his deal, there is a reason why he is expendable in Vancouver … because he’s 33 years old and has 10 years left on his contract.”He notes that the Leafs aren’t close to a cup, so why not go with the youngsters – James Reimer, Ben Scrivens, Mark Owuya and Jussi Rynnas.
- Jimmy Murphy via twitter: Murphy predicts that Tim Thomas will be traded this offseason.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: Heika thinks the Stars may be open to the idea of trading for a player like Rick Nash due to the limited number of scores on the free agent market. One key point regarding Nash is whether is okay numbers are a result of being in a bad system in Columbus or if he could break out on a line with Jamie Benn and Loui Eriksson. What the Blue Jackets would want is another question. Would the Stars be willing to part is a solid player, a top prospect or 2 and a high draft pick? The Stars may think higher of Zach Parise and may see what he’ll do if he hits the open market.
- David Haugh in the Chicago Tribune: Haugh thinks the Blackhawks should look at the trade interest in defenseman Duncan Keith or forward Patrick Sharp. Keith hasn’t been the same since 2010 and could bring more back than Brent Seabrook. Sharp is a more tradeable asset than Marian Hossa, and Toews and Kane remain untouchable.
- Helene St. James via twitter: Red Wings Tomas Holmstrom on whether his 39-year old body can handle another summer of training and long season:
“I love the game, I would love to play three, four more years,” Holmstrom said. “It’s so much fun to come to the rink and everything. It’s just if the body can take it one more year or two more years. There’s lots of wear and tear on the body. Mentally, the last couple of years, you’ve got to go through the soreness, aches and pain, and it can be pretty tough during the regular season.”
Possibly the only way that Holmstrom is in a Wings uniform next season is if Nicklas Lidstrom says he’d like to have him come back too.
- Damien Cox of the Toronto Star: At the trade deadline, the Maple Leafs were given a choice between 24-year old Steve Downie (a RFA looking for more than $3 million) or 20-year old Carter Ashton for defenseman Keith Aulie.
- Toronto Sun: Reports are that Patrick Roy has met with Serge Savard at a restaurant recently, but Savard denied they met in-person, but spoke on the phone.
Afternoon notes on Luongo, Schneider, Hodgson, Filppula, Kane, Jagr, Petrov, Vezina finalists, Konopka and Boyle
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on April 25th, 2012
- Elliotte Friedman of CBC: Despite having 10 years left on his deal, it doesn’t mean the Canucks won’t be able to trade Roberto Luongo. Jeff Carter had 11 years and was dealt. The biggest factors holding a deal back may be what the Canucks want for him or what other goalies are available. There could be between 5 and 9 teams that are interested. His top 2 landing spots would be Tampa Bay and Florida. He may not want to play in the spotlight of Toronto. Cory Schneider will not be blocked from an offer sheet from July 1st to July 5th because he made under $1.5 million. The Canucks would offer him arbitration but due to his salary, if Schneider and another team worked out a deal before July 5th, the Canucks would have the choice to match. The Canucks targeted 6 players they would have traded Cody Hodgson for at the deadline before they did the deal with the Sabres for Zack Kassian (Kassian obviously being one). Brandon Sutter of the Hurricanes was one, and John Carlson of the Capitals was another. The 4th was Erik Gudbrason of the Panthers and Kyle Clifford of the Kings was the 5th according to sources. The 6th is unknown. The Canadiens may be interested in Sharks GM Doug Wilson. Friedman wonders if the Red Wings will make Valtteri Filppula available this offseason.
- Steve Rosenbloom of the Chicago Tribune: Rosenbloom thinks the Blackhawks should at least see what they could get for Patrick Kane. He notes that Kane’s goal production doesn’t match the hype or salary.
- Sam Carchidi via twitter: Carchidi thinks there is an 80% chance that Jaromir Jagr returns to the Flyers next year.
- Chris Kuc via twitter: Blackhawks GM Stan Bowman: “We’re not going to bring everybody back.”
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Islanders prospect Kirill Petrov: “It’s my dream to play in the NHL. My contract expires on April 30. Then I will decide what to do.”
- Jim Diamond via twitter: Pekka Rinne, Henrik Lundqvist and Jonathan Quick are the Vezina finalists.
- Ian Mendes via twitter: Matt Carkner and Zenon Konopka were not at the Senators practice today.
- Katie Strang via twitter: Brian Boyle didn’t practice with the Rangers today.
Could Canucks move Kesler? Sharks injuries … Did Hodgson want out? Blackhawks notes … Luongo issues for Leafs … Pens blueline
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on April 25th, 2012
- Iain MacIntyre of the Vancouver Sun: MacIntyre wonders if the Canucks would consider trading Ryan Kesler. Kesler antics bother some, he didn’t have a great season, and his no-trade clause starts before next season. The Canucks may look at improving their image. Kesler wouldn’t talk about the injury that is bothering him, and they’ll know in the next 10 days if he’ll need surgery or not.
- David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News: The job security of Sharks GM Doug Wilson and coach Todd McLellan won’t be known until likely sometime next week. Patrick Marleau on if he’d be open to exploring other options if asked: “We’ll cross that bridge if it ever comes up.” Dan Boyle said there was a window opening for his NMC but he said he doesn’t want to think about it or go anywhere. Logan Couture requires shoulder surgery at some point. Joe Pavelski was getting injections for his foot and had a thumb ligament and knee ligament issues. Brent Burns had abdominal discomfort, Ryan Clowe had a groin strain, TJ Galiardi had a lower back issue, Machal Handzus had a groin strain, Doug Murray had a groin strain, Colin White and Tommy Wingels had a shoulder injuries.
- James Mirtle of the Globe and Mail: Canucks GM Mike Gillis on trading Cody Hodgson at the deadline for Zack Kassian and Marc-Andre Gragnani:
“There clearly were issues that were ongoing,” Gillis said when asked about Hodgson during Tuesday’s season ending press conference. “I spent more time on Cody’s issues than every other player combined on our team the last three years.
“We made a determination that he didn’t want to be here; we built him into something we could move. There were six young players that I would have traded him for if any of them were ever made available. One was made available at the trade deadline and it was Zack.”
- Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: The Red Wings would like to keep UFA Brad Stuart, but he may be heading to back to California to be closer to his family:
“I’ve been living here while my family has spent a lot of time in California,” Stuart said. “I’ve got a step-daughter that needs to finish high school. That’s how it is. There’s really no way to get around that. I guess it will be up to me to decide what needs to be done, because it’s been a tough couple of years. As much fun and as great as it’s been to play here, it’s been equally as tough on the family side of it.”
GM Ken Holland has approached Stuart about a contract extension, but he said he needed to consider his family.
“I guess the decision I’ll have to make is, am I going to go to free agency and see what happens, or not?” he said. “I haven’t talked to Kenny yet. I’m sure there might be a point where he wants to know one way or the other. It’ll be within a month-a-half, I guess. I love it here. If it was a purely hockey decision, I would stay.”
- Chris Kuc of the Chicago Tribune: The Blackhawks core will remain, and if the salary cap in the new CBA remains around $64 million, they’ll have around $7 million is space. Not returning next year will likely be Andrew Brunette, Brendan Morrison, Jamal Mayers, Sean O’Donnell and Sami Lepisto. Bubble players are Brandon Bollig, Bryan Bickell, Steve Montador and Johnny Oduya. Oduya made $3.5 million and may be looking for a raise.
- Damien Cox of the Toronto Star: So Roberto Luongo said he’d be willing to waive his no-trade clause yesterday. The Maple Leafs are looking for a goalie and may be interested, but there are some issues to run through. 1. Could Luongo help the Leafs? Yes. 2. Is Luongo in his prime? Nope. He is 33 but still in the top 1/3 in the league, likely top 5 goalie in the East. 3. Is the contract a crippling deal to any team? It’s cap friendly at $5.33 for 10 years. Salary decreases in the last 4 to $7 million total, can buy him out at 39. Can look at it as a 6 year deal for around $40 million. 4. Would the Leafs have to give up the 5th overall pick or Jake Gardiner for Luongo? Absolutely not. Belief is the Canucks wouldn’t get much of a return. 5. Would it be a better play to go after Cory Schneider? Maybe, but the Canucks are expected to keep Schneider. 6. Is Luongo the best option for the Leafs to get a true No. 1 goalie? It will create some discussions in the Leaf office. Dave Nonis acquired Luongo in Vancouver. Debate could increase if other goalies become available. Can the Blues keep both Halak and Elliott? Could the Penguins move Marc-Andre Fleury? Will Miikka Kiprusoff become available? What about Nikolai Khabibulin? Would the Sabres be ready to trade Ryan Miller?
- Dejan Kovacevic of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: The Penguins core isn’t the issue. Penguins GM Ray Shero is too smart to trade Evgeni Malkin, and he’ll look to keep both Sidney Crosby and Jordan Staal. Kovacevic thinks there blue line must be blown up. Shero spent $45 million on Paul Martin and Zbynek Michalek, both have 3 years left, and both have been busts. Their defense needs to “get younger, faster, stronger and more skilled.”
- Cody Nickolet via twitter: GMs Steve Yzerman and Brian Burke were in Moose Jaw last night watching top 10 draft picks Morgan Rielly and Griffin Reinhart. There were also scouts from Edmonton, Phoenix, LA, and others from Toronto and Tampa Bay.
Roberto Luongo talks to the media about his future
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Videos on April 24th, 2012
Canucks goalie Roberto Luongo talks to the media today about his future today, if it’s with the Canucks or elsewhere. He would be willing to waive his no-trade clause.
Luongo would waive his NTC … Pens want to re-sign Crosby and Staal … Grabovski gets offer before Leafs deal … Kesler injury
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on April 24th, 2012
- Elliotte Friedman via twitter: Canucks Roberto Luongo tells reporters that he would waive his no trade clause if asked.
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: It’s no secret the the Blue Jackets need a starting goalie, but due to Roberto Luongo’s age and contract, he would be a last resort.
- Elliotte Friedman via twitter: Penguins GM Ray Shero said that it is their goal to re-sign both Jordan Staal and Sidney Crosby. Shero added that his is “not sure” if he can do it until he speaks with Staal and Crosby, and has a better idea of the landscape. The CBA will be a factor as well. Shelly Anderson via twitter: Shero on trading one of their 3 big centers: “We have to take a look over the next couple months.”
- Will DePaoli via twitter: Penguins GM Ray Shero: “I think Dan Bylsma is the right coach for our team”
- Brian Hedger via twitter: Red Wings Nicklas Lidstrom: “I want to take a few weeks and get over this. It’s hard when you’re just a few days away from losing.”
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Maple Leafs Mikhail Grabovski tells goal.by that he had doubts about re-signing with the Leafs and that he had an offer from another club. Darren Dreger responds with how can he get an offer if he was still under contract with the Leafs, and that it might have come from the KHL. Chesnokov thinks it might have some from Minsk … or that he said too much.
- Ben Kuzma via twitter: Canucks Ryan Kesler has a shoulder injury. Doctors will look at it further to determine if surgery is needed. He injured it in February.
- David Pagnotta via twitter: Masterton finalists: Daniel Alfredsson, Joffrey Lupul and Max Pacioretty.
- James Mirtle via twitter: GM of the Year finalists: Doug Armstrong, David Poile and Dale Tallon.
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Panthers Jose Thoedore wasn’t at their morning skate. Jacob Markstrom was on the ice with Scott Clemmensen. Harvey Fialkov via twitter: Theodore is with the team, and the injury is not serious. He had the injury before.
Halak out 2 games … Sharks questions … Wings to pursue big 2 … Preds have 15 FAs … Kesler is high-maintenance … Ducks looking a a #2 … Quenneville presser
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on April 24th, 2012
- Jeremy Rutherford of hte St. Louis Post Dispatch: Jaroslav Halak’s ankle injury will keep him out for at least first 2 games of the Blues-Kings series.
- Craig Custance of ESPN: Custance lists 5 questions regarding the San Jose Sharks. 1. Is it time for a dramatic change at the top? – referring to GM Doug Wilson. 2. What about McLellan? 3. Has the window of opportunity to win a Cup truly closed on the Sharks core’? 4. Is it time to break up Thornton and Marleau? 5. Is it time for a dramatic rebuild in San Jose?
- GregG Krupa of the Detroit News: Krupa mentions the cap space the Red Wings have to go after Zach Parise and Ryan Suter. The skill after those 2 declines. Suter on the Wings:
“They have one of the greatest hockey traditions going,” Suter said. “They’re one of the greatest franchises, maybe ever.”
The Predators will have 8 UFAs and 7 RFAs. The price to retain Shea Weber, Alexander Radulov, Sergei Kostitsyn and 12 others over the next 2 years will be steep. The Stars, Kings, Rangers and others will also be looking to sign Parise and Suter.
- Mark Spector of Sportsnet.ca: There are rumors that Canucks Ryan Kesler and his “high-maintenance, bristling personality is wearing on people around the organization are easy to believe, once you meet the guy.”
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: The Ducks would like to re-sign Saku Koivu, but they may be looking at adding a 2nd line center. GM Bob Murray noted, “we just need our younger players to mature faster.” “And we need a couple of more pieces,” he added.
- Eric Stephens via twitter: Ducks defenseman Francois Beauchemin had successful surgery to repair a torn labrum in his right shoulder. Recovery is expected to be 4 months.
- Lisa Halverstadt via twitter: Glendale mayor Scruggs: “I’m ready to go on with life without the #Coyotes” though best thing would be for the team to stay.
- Ansar Khan of MLive: Red Wings assistant GM Jim Nill will remain with the Wings.
“I had two great talks with Montreal; I was interested, they were interested,” Nill said. “But it’s not the right time.”
- Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer: The Hurricanes have re-signed Jiri Tlusy to a 2 year deal worth $3.2 million. He’ll make $1.5 million next season, $1.7 million the following year. The ‘Canes also signed defenseman Beau Schmitz to a 3 year entry level deal.
- Blackhawks coach Joel Quenneville’s after being eliminated from the playoffs last night.
Selke, Lady Byng finalists … Injury updates on Alfredsson, Kovalchuk, Garrison and Boyle … Canucks decisions … Parise blocks out future talk
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on April 23rd, 2012
- Mike Morreale via twitter: Frank J. Selke finalists: David Backes, Patrice Bergeron and Pavel Datsyuk. Lady Byng finalists: Brian Campbell, Jordan Eberle and Matt Moulson.
- Allen Panzeri of the Ottawa Citizen: Senators Daniel Alfredsson will be in the lineup tonight.
- Rich Chere via twitter: Ilya Kovalchuk denies again that he is hurt, “I’m fine, 110 percent.”
- George Richards via twitter: Panthers defenseman Jason Garrison is traveling with the team and could skate on Tuesday.
- Chris Johnston via twitter: Rangers Brian Boyle didn’t travel with the team.
- Spector’s Hockey via twitter: The Canucks will have some tough decisions with Roberto Luongo and Cory Schneider. If they are not able to find a trade partner for Luongo, they may have to trade Schneider. They could hope there is an amnesty buyout in the next CBA agreement which they could use on Luongo if he’s untradeable, but this is a long shot.
- Terry Koshan of the Toronto Sun: Zach Parise on his future if they lose on Tuesday:
“It’s blocked out,” Parise said of what his hockey future might hold if the Devils are eliminated. “I don’t think about it and I really don’t want to talk about it.”
Martin Brodeur on his future:
“Career-wise, I don’t feel it will be the last (game),” Brodeur said. “But opportunity-wise, you never know. Who knows what position we’ll be in this time next year. I just want to keep this going regardless of what the future brings for me.”
Injury notes on Alfredsson, Garrison and Kovalchuk … The Red Wings and Sharks may have a busy offseason
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on April 23rd, 2012
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: There is a chance the Senators Daniel Alfredsson will return from his concussion for Game 6 tonight. He’s missed the last 3 games.
- Harvey Fialkov via twitter: It’s looking like Panthers defenseman Jason Garrison could be out for the rest of this series with a lower-body injury.
- Rich Chere of the Star-Ledger: There is speculation that Devils forward Ilya Kovalchuk is playing with a significant injury. Kovalchuk said he’s good, and coach Peter DeBoer added: “You know what? Everybody this time of year is dealing with stuff.”
- Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: The Red Wings will be clearing out their lockers tomorrow. GM Ken Holland:
“We have lots of cap space, and there’ll be players available July 1,” general manager Ken Holland said. “We’re going to look at free agency, but the NHL is so tight now. The days of us having way more depth than the opposition or one extra star, those are over for everybody. It’s a league that’s very, very close.”
The Wings will have $22 million in cap space next season (# could change depending on what the new cap will be). Some will go Nicklas Lidstrom if he decides to come back. The team plans to pursue Ryan Suter, but the teams bigger problems may be upfront. It’s likely they won’t bring back UFA Jiri Hudler next season. The Wings are also interested in Zach Parise who will be looking for a raise over his $6 million contract. Other forwards that may be available: Andrei Kostitsyn, Shane Doan, Olli Jokinen, Saku Koivu and Teemu Selanne. The core group of Datsyuk, Zetterberg and Filppula will be back to go along with Bertuzzi and Cleary. RFAs Helm and Abdelkader will be re-signed. Patrick Eaves should be recovered from his concussion in time for next season. Gustav Nyquist should stick with the big club.
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: Red Wings GM Ken Holland:
“I think we’re in an era now where every year is a new year, it’s hard to sustain things for more than two to three years because of the cap,” Wings GM Ken Holland told ESPN.com on Sunday. “It’s also because we all have a better understanding of the system, there are fewer kids traded, fewer draft picks traded. There’s more parity. The days of a team being at the head of the class for seven to eight years, those years are over.”
“Certainly we’re going to explore all avenues, trade and free agency to try and improve our team,” Holland said. “Our goal is to be a playoff team and position ourselves where we have the potential to be on a playoff run.”
Notable Red Wings UFAs: Jiri Hudler, Tomas Holmstrom, Brad Stuart, Ty Conklin and Nicklas Lidstrom. Holland hopes to know by the middle of June what Lidstrom’s plans are for next year. If Lidstrom retires, it would definitely give them a lot more cap room. If Ryan Suter or Zach Parise hit the open market, the Wings will be bidding. Notable Sharks UFAs: Torrey Mitchell, Dominic Moore and Daniel Winnik. Patrick Marleau has 2 years left with a $6.9 million cap hit and a no-trade clause. Havlat has 3 years left at $5 million. Brent Burns has 5 more years at $5.76 million. LeBrun thinks the Sharks need to shakeup their core. Aside from Joe Thornton, Logan Couture, Ryane Clowe and Dan Boyle, LeBrun would trade almost anyone. GM Doug Wilson did speak with Columbus about Nash at the trade deadline.
- David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News: One question for the Sharks offseason is if they will keep coach Todd McLellan? Another one is if they’ll keep GM Doug Wilson on? The Sharks could look at Rick Nash again, but would likely cost a Joe Pavelski or Ryane Clowe. Patrick Marleau’s future in a Sharks uniform may be addressed. He has pointless during the playoffs after putting up 64 regular season points. Martin Havlat had an injury filled season, and only scored 7 goals while putting up 27 points in 39 games. Pavelski had no points in playoffs, but if he’s moved, it would have to bring back a player like Nash. Antti Niemi wasn’t perfect in the playoffs, but he isn’t among the teams biggest problems. Michal Handzus didn’t have a good season, and if there is a market for him and his $2.5 million salary, he could be moved.
Bergeron, Corvo hurting … Alfie skates … Possible landing spots for Luongo … Video of Neil hit on Boyle, may not be reviewed
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Videos on April 22nd, 2012
- Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe: Bruins forward Patrice Bergeron missed some time during their last game after suffering an injury, but will play today.
“I’m not quite sure whether it was that hit,’’ said coach Claude Julien, referring to the third-period thump Bergeron took from Ovechkin. “Or whether it was the hit that he had earlier that he kind of hit the glass. That’s where I think it started, in my mind. I’m not 100 percent sure on that.’’
Defenseman Joe Corvo didn’t take another shift after taking a shot off the leg in the 2nd period on Friday. His status for today is unclear.
- Dave Lozo via twitter: Daniel Alfredsson skated yesterday and is making progress.
- Adam Kimelman via twitter: Flyers Nicklas Grossman is still day-to-day with an upper-body injury according to GM Paul Holmgren.
- Helene St. Jamesof the Detroit Free Press: Brad Stuart has likely played his last game in Red Wings uniform, as the UFA may be looking to play closer to his family in San Jose.
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: The problem with the Maple Leafs as a possible landing spot for Roberto Luongo is Brian Burke dislike for long, front loaded contracts. Luongo has 10 years left.
“I object as a general manager to those contracts,” Burke testified according to a transcript of the hearing reviewed by Slap Shots. “I object to all of these contracts, not just to Kovy’s. I think it’s [expletive deleted]. “In my opinion these [contracts] create artificial cap room and it’s not a level playing field. …I think it’s circumvention. I think it’s an outrage. “I won’t do them. I won’t do a contract like this.” I don’t view this as proper conduct under the CBA.”
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: The Canucks possibly trading Roberto Luongo is an awkward situation, but it is doable. He’s owed $6.714 million until his 39, but only around $6 million total for the final 3 years. Contenders to land him are: 1. Tampa Bay Lightning – They would rather have Cory Schneider, and will be looking at Jonathan Bernier or Anders Lindback. They have 2 1st round picks and possibly 4 2nd rounders. They also need another top 6 forward. 2. Toronto Maple Leafs – If they wanted Schneider, they would have to part with Jake Gardiner, which could be a stumbling block. Luongo could get the Leafs back in the playoffs. 3. Columbus Blue Jackets – The Jackets will likely be parting ways with Steve Mason and Rick Nash. The Jackets goalie coach use to be Luongo goalie coach in Vancouver, and the 2 are still friends, but it is a long shot that he ends up in Columbus. They will be looking at Bernier and maybe Lindback. 4. Florida Panthers – Luongo is liked in Florida, and his wife is from there. The Panthers aren’t sold on Jose Theodore, but have Jakub Markstrom waiting. The Canucks would have interest in Nick Bjugstad and Quinton Howden. 5. Chicago Blackhawks – Do they feel comfortable with Corey Crawford and Ray Emery? They would have get rid of a contract to fit him in. Niklas Hjalmarsson could be an option at $3.75 million with little offense. The Canucks buy him out and spread $31.5 million over 20 years. Would Luongo even want to play in Toronto? Matheson thinks Brad Stuart will sign with the San Jose Sharks this offseason. The Wings could use a guy like Cal Clutterbuck on their team. If the Capitals don’t bring Tomas Vokoun back, Matheson wonders if the Kings would like him as a backup to Quick. Zach Parise will be the Wings No.1 target this offseason, followed closely by Ryan Suter. Could the Bruins part with Tim Thomas this summer?
- Arthur Staple via twitter: Early indications are that Chris Neil won’t be having a hearing for his hit on Brian Boyle. Steve Zipay via twitter: Boyle has a concussion from Neil’s hit.
Morning notes on: Torres, Lidstrom, Alfredsson, Luongo, Red Wings, Roy, Emery, Clifford, Parse and Blues sale
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on April 21st, 2012
- Darren Dreger via twitter: Coyotes Raffi Torres suspension is likely to be announced late morning or early afternoon.
- Helene St. James via twitter: Red Wings defenseman Nicklas Lidstrom reiterated last night that a decision on his future won’t be made for several weeks. He’ll eventually meet with GM Ken Holland to,
“go over things. So I’ll see what he wants to do and what time table he’ll give me to make a decision.”
Coach Mike Babcock,
“I think Nick Lidstrom retires when he thinks he’s not a good player any more. But I think he’s been a pretty darn good player. He’s too good to quit.”
- Don Brennan of the Ottawa Sun: Senators Daniel Alfredsson won’t be returning for Game 5. He didn’t practice with the team yesterday, and didn’t fly with them to New York .
- Jim Jamieson via twitter: Canucks Roberto Luongo said he isn’t reading papers or listening to the radio about speculation surrounding his future. Luongo added that he’s 100% behind Cory Schneider.
- Darren Dreger of TSN: (mailbag) The Red Wings did have interest in Rick Nash at the trade deadline, but it wasn’t the right timing for the Wings. The cost financially and structurally was also too much for the Wings. If they hit the open marketing, the Wings will have interest in landing one or both of Zach Parise and Ryan Suter.
- Marianne White in the Montreal Gazette: Patrick Roy said yesterday that he hasn’t received a call from the Canadiens yet, “But my cellphone is always turned on.” Roy added,
“If I receive a phone call, I’m obviously going to listen,” he said.
“The NHL has been the best thing that’s happened to me in my life and I’m certainly not going to turn down calls from an NHL team. But am I going to make calls? No.”
- Adam Jahns via twitter: Jahns wonders if the Blackhawks will go with Ray Emery for Game 5 over Corey Crawford.
- Rich Hammond of the LA Kings Insider: Kyle Clifford didn’t skate yesterday. Scott Parse took part in his first team practice since November. Parse is still weeks away from possibly playing.
- Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: Gary Bettman said yesterday that the sale of the St. Louis Blues could be completed “soon.” Once the lawyers are finished, the NHL Board of Governors will meet with Tom Stillman to give their final approval.
“We remain singularly focused on Tom Stillman completing his proposed transaction to purchase the St. Louis Blues’ franchise. “The process is progressing positively, and we have no reason to think that it won’t get done in the relatively near future.”
-
You are currently browsing the archives for the NHL News category.
Recent Comments