Archive for category NHL Rumors

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.”

  • 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.

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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.

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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.
  • 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.

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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.

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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

  • 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

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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.
  • 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.

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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.
  • 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.”

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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.

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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

  • 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.”
  • 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.”
  • 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.
  • 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.

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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

  • 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.

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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

  • 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.”

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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.

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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.

  • Adam Kimelman via twitter: Flyers Nicklas Grossman is still day-to-day with an upper-body injury according to GM Paul Holmgren.
  • 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?

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Raffi Torres suspended for 25 games

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Rumors, NHL Suspensions, NHL Videos on April 21st, 2012

Phoenix Coyotes forward Raffi Torres was suspended for 25 games for his hit on Chicago Blackhawks forward Marian Hossa.

Tracey Myers via twitter: Coyotes GM Maloney: “Raffi plays a hard, physical game yet this contact crossed the line on what is acceptable in our game today.” … “We hope Marian Hossa makes a full and speedy recovery as we all enjoy watching him.” … “The Club accepts the NHL’s decision and will focus on our game tonight.”

Darren Dreger via twitter: Dreger says the Blackhawks do a good job at protecting injury information. He thinks that Hossa was/is seriously injured with is a key factor in the suspension. Dreger adds “25 gms doesn’t establish new standard. Next player who delivers leaping hit to the head may only get 2-3 games. This is a message to Torres.”

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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

  • 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.”

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Luongo a tough move … JVR ready … Halak still in boot … Could it be Lidstrom’s final game … Roy knows Habs will call

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on April 20th, 2012

  • Craig Custance of ESPN: One GM laughed when asked if Roberto Luongo’s contract is movable, and another responded:

    “No,” he answered. “Unless the trading team was allowed to subsidize the deal.”

    Options for the Canucks this summer: 1. Pray for an amnesty clause – if he was bought out at the end of the season without the amnesty, Luongo would come off the books in 2031-32.  2. Trade him – he has a no-trade clause and tough contract to move. “There’s a limited amount of teams,” an NHL source said. “A very limited amount of teams.” The Lightning are looking for a goalie this summer. Luongo has ties to the state of Florida. The Panthers have Jacob Markstrom on the way. The Leafs are looking for a goalie as well, but Burke doesn’t like long contract, plus “Why would he want to go from one fishbowl to another?” one source said. 3. Keep him – this would be a tough sell and Luongo likely wouldn’t be happy being a backup. With Schneider needing a new contract, a lot of money would be tied up in the position.

  • David Shoalts of the Globe and Mail: Shoalts thinks the only teams that may need goaltending are the Lightning, Maple Leafs, Blue Jackets and Oilers. The Devils could be looking for a goalie due to Martin Brodeur’s age, but there financial situation would likely prevent bringing in Luongo.
  • Frank Seravalli of the Philadelphia Daily News: Flyers James van Reimsdyk skated for the 4th straight day yesterday and appears ready to return to the lineup. Defenseman Nicklas Grossman is listed as day-to-day with an upper-body injury. Erik Gustafsson or Brandon Manning would take Grossman’s place if he’s not ready to go.
  • Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: Blues goalie Jaroslav Halak’s return to the lineup doesn’t appear to be imminent. He is still wearing a walking boot on his left foot, and missed his 2nd straight game. Halak tested it out on the ice on Tuesday, but it didn’t go that well.
  • Rich Hammond via twitter: Kings coach Darryl Sutter on Simon Gagne: “I don’t even know if he’s in North America.”
  • Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: If the Red Wings lose tonight, it’s possible that Nicklas Lidstrom has played his final NHL game. Lidstrom will be 42 in a week.

    “I’ve been hearing that same story for about five years now,” Babcock said Thursday. “I haven’t thought much about Nick. I’d be shocked if he retires, but I’ve been shocked before.”

    “It’s crossed my mind,” Jimmy Howard said, “but you try not to think about it. It’s been quite the honor to play with Nick, and I hope he comes back, but that’s up to him.”

    Lidstrom has said he’ll take some time to relax after the season, then him and his wife will make a decision on next year.

  • Elliotte Friedman of CBC: Patrick Roy’s Quebec Remparts are out of the playoffs, and he knows a call from the Canadiens will be coming.

    “Going there would definitely interest him. He thrives on challenges,” said the above friend. “Winning one or two Stanley Cups was not enough for him; he wanted more. And, when the Avalanche traded for Ray Bourque, it became his mission to win another one.”

    Serge Savard told the Montreal Gazette mid season that he thought the Roy would coach the Canadiens under “certain conditions.” Guy Lafleur thinks Roy would be a better GM than coach.

  • Martin Lunden via a Swedish site: (tweeted by Bruce McCurdy) Oilers 2011 1st round draft pick Oscar Klefbom is set to a sign a 3 year entry-level deal with the team.

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Afternoon notes: Luongo, van Reimsdyk, Alfredsson, Hanzal, Fleischmann, Panthers, Sharks, Clemmensen and re-entry waivers

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Starting Goalies on April 19th, 2012

  • Capgeek via twitter: Canucks Roberto Luongo has a full no-trade clause but it has some stipulations. After his last 2013-14 game, he can supply a 5-team trade list that is valid through July 15th, 2014.
  • Ian Mendes via twitter: “Nothing’s changed” according to Senators coach Paul MacLean regarding Daniel Alfredsson.

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Grossman DTD … Saad could be in … Schneider’s team now, may look to trade Luongo … Kiper likely staying … Allaire tired of blame

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Starting Goalies on April 19th, 2012

  • Bob McKenzie via twitter: Flyers defenseman Nicklas Grossman is day-to-day with an upper-body injury. He was hit twice in the 1st period but played through to the middle of the 2nd. The injury more likely occurred on the 2nd hit by Tyler Kennedy.
  • Elliotte Friedman of CBC: Friedman thinks that Torres will get hammered with a big suspension. Doctors prevented Daniel Alfredsson from playing in Game 3. One theory is that Alaine Vigneault put Cory Schneider in over Roberto Luongo for Game 3 was to put heat on his players. Luongo’s a “built-in excuse.” Glen Healy reported on the Hotstove that the Oilers will keep the 1st overall pick. The Oilers and Ryan Smyth maybe headed to another disagreement. They offered him a 2 year deal at the trade deadline, likely no higher than $5 million total, but that went nowhere. The Oilers may no longer think he’s a top-6 forward. Flames Miikka Kiprusoff’s no-movement clause ends July 1st and his salary drops the next 2 years. Eric Francis said the Flames won’t trade him, but they will get tempting offers. People are wondering who is calling the shots in Calgary, GM Jay Feaster or the ownership/president. Maple Leafs goalie coach Francois Allarie is telling people he’s tired of being made the scape in Toronto. He’s getting blamed from people outside the organization, Burke has defended him. No decisions have been made regarding the Canadiens coaches, and none will be made until a new GM is hired.
  • Iain MacIntyre of the Vancouver Sun: MacIntyre notes it’s Cary Schneider’s team now with Vigneault deciding not to go with Roberto Luongo for their elimination game. GM Mike Gillis will try to re-sign the RFA Schneider before July 1st. If they can’t get him re-signed by then, they’ll offer him arbitration so that no other team can make an offer for him. Luongo is owed $6.714 million over the next 6 seasons, then his salary drops. Luongo has a no-trade clause, so he could reject a deal. The Canucks may not get a good return, and may have to take a bad contract back.
  • Howard Berger of Berger Bytes: Berger notes that Roberto Luongo’s days in Vancouver could be over as it “appears indisputable” that Canucks will look to trade Luongo this offseason and make Schneider their No. 1 goalie. The 33-year old Luongo has 10 years left on his contract. His annual salary will be nearly $6.75 million, but carries a $5.33 million cap hit. His contract was front loaded. Berger asked some people around the Staples Center yesterday who suggested the Lightning, Panthers and Maple Leafs would likely be making inquiries. Luongo does hold a no-movement clause. If the Leafs were to make a move on Luongo, they’d would likely have to include a large contract going back. There are some who believe that the Mike Gillis wouldn’t deal with Brian Burke, but their verbal warfare has been largely overblown. Though Gillis isn’t in a strong negotiating position, he’ll be looking for a credible package for Luongo.
  • Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: The Blue Jackets are in talks with Michael Chaput and Austin Madaisky. Mathieu Corbeil, Petr Straka and Brandon Archibald are also un-signed, and a decision hasn’t been made if they’ll re-sign them. They have 3 unsigned players heading back to college who were drafted in 2008 and 2009.

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End of the line for Luongo? Staal deflects trade rumor … Fleury fine … Halak out … Video of Torres hit on Hossa

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Suspensions on April 18th, 2012

  • Jason Bothchford of the Vancouver Province: The Canucks haven’t announced who will be their starting goalie for Game 4. If Cory Schneider gets the start over Roberto Luongo, it “would be tangible evidence suggesting we may have seen the end of the Luongo era in Vancouver.” If Luongo gets the call, it’s because of his experience. If Schneider gets the call, it’s because of his numbers. Regardless, the team may be moving forward with Schneider in their plans, they don’t want to trade him. If they keep Schneider, Luongo may never regain the definitive #1 goalie status in Vancouver.
  • Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: Penguins Jordan Staal will be a free agent after next season (along with Crosby) and will likely be looking for a raise from his $4 million salary. When asked about speculation that he was unhappy with the Pens and that he could possibly be traded this summer:

    “About me?” Staal asked. “What are they saying? No, not right now. That’s the last thing on my mind, for sure.”

  • Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: Marc-Andre Fleury said he’s not feeling any effects from a collision he had in a game against the Islanders towards the end of the regular season, and that it has nothing to do with his struggles. Paul Martin was given a maintenance day and is possible for tonight.
  • Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: The Sharks may be looking at some lineup and possible line changes for Game 4.

    “We can look at the line combinations, the potential lineup changes. There’s a lot we can do. It’s 2-1. We’ve been here many times and we’ve conducted ourselves appropriately and come back and won series.”

  • Coyotes Raffi Torres’ hit on Blackhawks Marian Hossa

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Yakupov wants to be an Oiler … Elliott to start … Sharks may add size … Allaire may retire … Suspension videos for Hagelin and Carkner

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Suspensions, NHL Videos on April 16th, 2012

  • Terry Jones of the Edmonton Sun: Likely 1st overall draft pick Nail Yakupov said:

    “I definitely want to go to Edmonton and play for the Oilers, for sure,”

    “I’ve played in Canada, in Sarnia, for the last two years. I love the people. I very much want to play for a Canadian team like Edmonton. I want to play for those guys!

    “If they draft me, I will work very hard to make the team, give it everything I’ve got to work hard and play for the Oilers.

    “I want to be No. 1. No. 1 is No. 1. I don’t want to be second or third.”

  • Mark Emmons of the San Jose Mercury News: The Sharks may be considering making a lineup change for Game 3. The Sharks may look to get bigger, with options being Michal Handzus Brad Winchester and Colin White. Dominic Moore’s broken nose was badly swollen yesterday but he’ll be able to go.
  • Damien Cox of the Toronto Star: According to Elliotte Friedman, Maple Leafs goalie coach Francois Allaire may resign and retire as an active goalie coach. Burke told the Star that he had not heard directly from Allaire regarding his retirement.
  • Rangers Carl Hagelin gets a 3 game suspension for his head hit on Senators Daniel Alfredsson.

  • Senators Matt Carkner gets a 1 game suspension for fighting Rangers Brian Boyle.

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