- Tom Gulitti of The Record: Devils GM Lou Lamoriello has stated multiple times that he’s wanted to add two scoring forwards. There are not many top-six UFA options, so he might have to go the trade route. At the trade deadline, Lou was trying to add some scoring, but couldn’t find a trade partner. It would be a tough decision on whether to trade their first round pick, currently sixth overall. The Devils traded their ninth overall pick in 2013 for Cory Schneider, so Lou might do a similar type deal if he can get a top-six. They could also package one of their young defenseman with a draft pick or two.
Pending UFAs Scott Gomez, Steve Bernier and Jordin Tootoo have shown enough to likely get a new contract. Michael Ryder and Martin Havlat won’t be back. Dainius Zubrus has a year left on his deal and could be bought out. It isn’t known yet if Ryane Clowe will attempt another comeback from a concussion or if he’ll retire. It doesn’t appear that 39-year old Bryce Salvador will be re-signed.
- Andrew Gross of The Record: Rangers prospect Dylan McIlrath was once again looked over with the Rangers needed an emergency recall when defensman Matt Hunwick couldn’t go on Sunday due to an upper-body injury. McIlrath’s skating isn’t trusted at the NHL level yet. Question may now be whether the pending RFA has a future with the Rangers. The 22-year old was drafted 10th overall in the 2010 draft by the Rangers. The Rangers don’t have a lot of defensive depth in their system. Brady Skjei could be ready to sign an entry-level deal after three years in college, and might be ready to make the jump to the NHL next season. 25-year old Mat Bodie is having a good season in the AHL and 25-year old Conor Allen is still around as well.
- Nichols on Hockey: Elliotte Friedman on Sportsnet 960 on college free agent goalie Matt O’Connor.
“Matt O’Connor, the goaltender from Boston University – he’s not going to play in the NHL this year because he’s made the Frozen Four.
“I’m under the impression that he has told Edmonton he will visit them. I don’t think he’s told Calgary yet that he will visit them – at least he hadn’t when I checked on Saturday – but I’m under the impression he will be visiting you guys somewhere toward after the season.”
