Posts Tagged Alex Kovalev
Ducks in the rumor mill … Subban-Plekanec drop the gloves … RNH injures shoulder … Carcillo could face suspension
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Videos on January 3rd, 2012
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Talk about what Teemu Selanne will do has already surfaced as the Ducks have struggled with a 10-21-6 record.
“I’ve read some stories in the papers too about what the situation could be,” said Selanne, who took the day off for maintenance. ”To be honest, I haven’t really thought about that too much. I still believe that we can make the playoffs. I don’t want to think about that thing before we’re out.
“So right now, I just think I’m going to be here. That’s the only goal I have right now. Right now, I can’t see that happening. The focus is still do the job here now and see how it goes. A lot of work to do. It’s a big challenge right now.”
Ducks GM Bob Murray may look to see what he can get for the few tradable assets he has. Bobby Ryan has already been on the trade block and Ryan Getzlaf’s name has crept into the rumor mill lately. GM Murray has already said that Selanne is retiring a Duck.
- Bucky Gleason of the Buffalo News: It’s sounding like the Sabres could be shopping some players in effort to turn their season around. Coach Lindy Ruff’s job is safe. The Sabres sit in 11th spot, but they don’t need to blow up their roster. Derek Roy, Drew Stafford, Paul Gaustad and Ryan Miller haven’t lived up to expectations or their contracts.
- TSN: Canadiens P.K. Subban and Tomas Plekanec dropped the gloves at yesterday’s practice. No big bombs were landed and both players resumed practicing afterwards. “It’s nothing personal between me and P.K., it’s about the team and to realize we have to start playing as a team,” said Plekanec. “Those things happen.
- Jim Matheson via twitter: Ryan Nugent-Hopkins left last night’s game. There is no news on the severity of the shoulder injury. He’ll be out today against the Sabres. Mark Spector via twitter: The Oilers have recalled center Josh Green and Dman Colten Teubert to replace RNH and Tom Gilbert (see video below).
- Tim Panaccio of CSN Philly: Flyers winger Jaromir Jagr took himself out of yesterday’s Winter Classic after he was speared in the calf. “It was swelling and getting worse and worse in my leg,” Jagr said. “I just couldn’t skate hard and I didn’t want to just be [on the ice] to be there. I knew at that point I couldn’t help my teammates.”
- Craig Custance of ESPN: Custance list 10 candidates for next year’s Winter Classic and beyond: 1. Detroit 2. Washington 3. New York 4. Minnesota 5. Toronto 6. Chicago 7. Colorado 8 Columbus 9. Green Bay 10. Las Vegas
- Jim Jamieson of the Vancouver Province: Canucks forward David Booth hopes to return to the lineup by Jan. 9th against the Panthers. Booth has skated for 3 straight days, but only for 15 minutes. Booth has been out with a sprained knee ligament since Dec. 6th. Defenseman Aaron Rome also skated but is still a ways from returning.
- Blackshawks Dan Carcillo’s hit on Oilers Tom Gilbert. This will definitely be looked by the league, and a suspension is likely. What do you think?
Maloney, Doan talk Turris … CBA talks to begin after All-Star Game … Doughty fined … Bogosian, Deveaux up for suspension?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Videos on November 24th, 2011
- Jim Gintonio of the Arizona Republic: Coyotes GM Don Maloney on Kyle Turris:
“He felt that he decided he wanted to go down a certain route and certain things he was looking for; and for us as an organization, very few times in the CBA where you do have some leverage, and we just felt strongly that we needed to use our leverage now,” he said.
“Looking down the road with some other players … we just felt it was important to set a standard on how we operate.”
Maloney added the process was always about business as Turris was looking for a contract worth a lot more than he got. Captain Shane Doan on having Turris back in the locker room:
“Obviously, we’re going to tease him, we’re going to have fun with him,” he said. “This room is a pretty good group of guys that’s gonna give it to him, and the reason you give it to him is because you like him so much.
“Everybody wants him back. So we’re looking forward to it, and I’m sure he’s looking forward to playing hockey again, that’s what he does, and he does it really well.”
- Jim Gintonio via twitter: His gut feeling is that Turris will remain with the Coyotes.
- Dan Gelston (AP) in the Raleigh News & Observer: The NHL’s CBA is to expire on Sept. 15th 2012, but talks are scheduled to begin just after the NHL All-Star Game.
- Iain MacIntyre via twitter: Canucks forward Mason Raymond is getting close to returning, with the possibility of him being in the lineup next week during their homestand.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Kings defenseman Drew Doughty was fined $2,500 for his hit on TJ Oshie.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Blair Jones was put on waivers by the Lightning. Predators Niclas Bergfors cleared waivers.
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: Jets defenseman Zach Bogosian will have a hearing this afternoon for his hit on Capitals Cody Eakin. Andre Deveaux will also have a hearing for his elbow on Tomas Fleischmann. How many games do you think Deveaux will get?
Some free agent notes … Huselius out 4-6 months … Devils getting closer to naming coach … Canes basically done
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on July 14th, 2011
- Craig Custance of the SportingNews: Custance notes some intriguing players remain unsigned: Alex Kovalev (who’s not retiring according to his agent), Bryan McCabe, Scott Hannan and Ray Emery. The Bruins could use some help on the wing with Mark Recchi retiring and Michael Ryder heading to Dallas. The Rangers could use some scoring help up front, but a veteran along the blueline may be more important. Chris Osgood’s future with the Red Wings could be decided later this week. The Red Wings don’t want to spend much on their backup goalie. The Predators need to find some scoring help as only Sergei Kostitsyn and Patric Hornqvist scored over 20 goals. The Islanders are still $10 million below the salary cap floor. Kings GM Dean Lombardi continues to work the phones, and could be looking to add a winger.
- Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: Blue Jackets winger Kristian Huselius tore his pectoral muscle last weekend while bench pressing during a workout. He’s expected to miss 4 to 6 months after surgery (today in Columbus). Jackets GM Scott Howson will now look for a free agent winger who is able to play in the top 6. “I’m sure I’ll get some phone calls beginning (Thursday),” Howson said.
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Though they are getting closer to hiring a new head coach, Devils GM Lou Lamoriello said “it won’t be this week.”
- Chris Kuc via twitter: The Blackhawks just started the negotiating process for RFAs Campoli and Frolik, there is no rush to get them signed.
- Dirk Hoag via twitter: Predators GM Poile “we’re in exactly the position we want to be competitive for a number of years. We have our window of opportunity.”
- Chip Alexander via twitter: Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford said they are basically done for the summer unless a good “hockey deal” comes along. He will need to add a few depth AHL players.
- Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: Kris Draper wants to return next year, and Red Wings GM Ken Holland plans to talk to him soon. The Wings don’t have cap problems, but they 14 forwards under contract already. The 40 year old Draper had 11 points in 47 games, and didn’t complain when he was made a healthy scratch. If he’s not offered a contract by the Wings, he’ll likely be offered a position within the organization.
- Wayne Scanlan of hte Ottawa Citizen: The Ottawa Senators have signed their 2011 1st round draft pick Mika Zibanejad to an entry level deal.
“Obviously, if I don’t (make the Senators), I’m going back to Sweden,” said Zibanejad
“I don’t think that’s a bad idea to be there and maybe develop, get bigger and stronger. Sweden is the second-best league in the whole world, so I think that’s the plan.”
- Predators unveil their new jersey’s:
Malhotra plans for Game 1 … Wings looking for Dman … Crosby to be re-evaluated … Another group interested in Thrashers
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 29th, 2011
- Jason Botchford of the Vancouver Province: Canucks forward Manny Malhotra has been given medical clearance and is preparing to play in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final. 11 weeks ago he nearly lost his eye. “Everything is as it should be,” Malhotra said of the eye. “Going forward, I will continue to be monitored daily and if at any time the doctor doesn’t like what he sees, he has the ultimate veto power,” Malhotra said. Malhotra is expected to take Cody Hodgson’s spot as the 4th line center.
- Bob Wojnowski of the Detroit News: The Red Wings will now be looking for a top defenseman after Rafalski’s unexpected retirement. “The market isn’t as strong, but we’re only looking for one guy,” Holland said. “If a player’s not out there or doesn’t want to buy into the program, we’ll look at an alternative plan. Do you go a touch higher than you want? Yeah. But we’re not going to go dramatically higher than what we think makes sense.” UFA’s that might interest the Wings are Kevin Bieksa, Christian Ehrhoff, Joni Pitkanen, Ed Jovanovski, James Wisniewski, Roman Hamrlik, Ian White and Tomas Kaberle.
- Fan 590 Audio: Ken Holland talks on Prime Time Sports (Thursday) talking about Rafalski’s retirement and what it means for their blueline.
- Shelly Anderson of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: Sidney Crosby will be re-evaluated by a concussion specialist in the next week or so. Crosby has been vacationing in Europe, needs clearance from doctors before he can resume his off-season workouts. The Penguins won’t be re-signing Alex Kovalev or Mike Comrie. Comrie could retire, “I’m not sure what Mike’s going to do,” Shero said. “He might be leaning toward retirement.” Shero didn’t rule out re-signing any of their UFA’s: Max Talbot, Pascal Dupuis, Mike Rupp, Craig Adams, Arron Asham, Eric Godard, Chris Conner and Nick Johnson.
- Craig Custance of the Sporting News: Chris Osgood is “100 percent healthy” but a decision on his playing future is still not known. “He’s going through the internal process to decide if he has the energy and the desire and determination to play hockey again,” Holland said. “In the middle of June, we’ll look at the goalies that are out there, we’re going to try and figure out a way to be the best team that we can.”
- Chris Vivlamore of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution: Another group stepped forward with interest in buying the Thrashers and keeping the team in Atlanta. Statement from president Don Waddell.
“Along with all other groups who have expressed an interest in pursuing an ownership opportunity, which has happened as recently as earlier this week, we have said continuously that ‘until an agreement is signed and approved by the board of governors, it’s never too late but they will have to move very quickly and decisively. Ownership still is committed to selling at a greatly reduced price to anyone committed to Atlanta.’ ”
Winger for Malkin? Crosby to be ready for camp … Less money for Doughty … A deal for Crawford at the Draft … Will Umberger want to return?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 2nd, 2011
- Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: The Penguins have 3 areas to address this off-season. 1. Hire a power play coach. 2. Find a winger for Evgeni Malkin. 3. Upgrade secondary skill. The Penguins have 17 players under contract for next year at just over $55.4 million. They’ll need to add 6 players for under $7 million.
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: Shero on Crosby,
“He’s certainly going to be ready for camp,” Pens GM Ray Shero told ESPN.com Saturday. “He had really ramped it up before taking a week off. I know you don’t totally know with these things, but Dr. Collins has maintained the whole time that this is a manageable injury and that Sid will be fine. He’s got lots of time now.”
Chris Drury has a no movement clause so he won’t be sent to the minors which had been rumored last week. What the Sabres could be looking for this off-season, “If we can add a little more offense, we need a bit more,” Regier said. “And maybe someone who can add a little experience on the back end because we’re a little young there.” Senators GM Bryan Murray will start their coaching search next week, he already has about 6 applicants.
- Dan Arritt of ESPN Los Angeles: LA Kings defenseman Drew Doughty struggled this past season when comparing to his 2009-10 campaign, and it might hit him in the pocket book. “The drop-off could wind up costing Doughty some dough if he stays with the Kings. He’ll be a restricted free agent on July 1 and free to accept offer sheets from other teams, though the Kings have the right to match.” The Kings also have Alec Martinez, Trevor Lewis, Oscar Moller, Wayne Simmonds and Brad Richardson as RFA’s. It’s likely that Moller will be the only one not returning. The Kings will also likely to take a run at Brad Richards. There were interested in him at the deadline but the Stars where still in the playoff hunt.
- Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun: Simmons wonders is the Maple Leafs could sign one of Shea Weber, Steven Stamkos or Drew Doughty to an offer sheet, costing them 4 1st round picks. The Phoenix Coyotes lost $36.6 million this past season.
- Eric Francis of the Calgary Sun: The Blackhawks and Corey Crawford will get a deal done at the draft. They are expected to offer deals in the 2,3, and 4 year range. There are rumors that the Canadiens could bury Scott Gomez and his $7.3 million cap hit in the minors next year.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Matheson wouldn’t be surprised if Alex Kovalev is in the KHL next year. Canadiens forward Lars Eller played Game 7 with a dislocated shoulder. Matheson doesn’t see the Bruins re-signing Tomas Kaberle unless he “gets his act in gear.”
- Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: RJ Umberger’s contract expires at the end of next season, and can start negotiating with the Blue Jackets after July 1st, but will he want to re-sign with the team. When asked about if he has concerns about the teams direction,
“That’s an important question for me to ask myself,” he said. “It’s something I need to consider. You only have so many years to play this game. I’m entering the stage of my career where these are the prime years. It’s important to me.
“I’d like to see how the summer plays out. From the end-of-the-year meetings (with Blue Jackets general manager Scott Howson and coach Scott Arniel), I know what they expect to do. They said they’re going to be active. But you want to see something done to feel better about the situation.”
Twitter rumors involving: Blue Jackets, Thrashers, Penguins, Flyers, Panthers, Blackhawks, Leafs and Avs
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Rumors on February 24th, 2011
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: Blue Jackets GM Scott Howson said they will be buyers this year.
- Chris Vivlamore via twitter: The Atlanta Thrashers gave serious consideration to claiming Nikolai Zherdev.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Strickland was informed that Pittsburgh wouldn’t make the Kovalev trade unless they believed Sidney Crosby was returning this year.
- Frank Seravalli via twitter: The Flyers have kicked tires on Avalanche defenseman Adam Foote.
- George Richards via twitter: The Panthers could have something on the go today.
- Tim Sassone via twitter: Blackhawks GM Bowman said he’s looking to only trade ‘assets’ and not roster players.
- Howard Berger via twitter: Things heating up today between Maple Leafs and Avalanche regarding John-Michael Liles.
The Penguins trade for Senators winger Alexei Kovalev
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Trades on February 24th, 2011
The Pittsburgh Penguins have acquired Alexei Kovalev from the Ottawa Senators for a 7th round pick.
Pierre LeBrun via twitter: If the Penguins win 1 playoff series and Kovalev plays in half the games, the pick becomes a 6th rounder.
Kovalev, who turns 38 today, hasn’t really lived up to expectations after signed his 2 year deal with the Sens.
Updated Audio and Video:
Alex Kovalev Audio from NHL.com.
Steep price for Rangers to get Richards … Chris Phillips and his no-trade … 3 looking at Kovalev … Pens looking at Stillman, Higgins … Leafs and Liles … plus more
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 24th, 2011
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: The Post was told that Stars GM Joe Nieuwendyk told the Rangers GM Glen Sather that it would cost 3 young roster players, possibly Marc Staal, Brandon Dubinsky and Derek Stepan for Brad Richards. The Rangers have also inquired about Bryan McCabe and his no-movement clause, his agent said “Nothing has evolved to the point where he has to make any decisions.”
- Ken Warren of the Ottawa Citizen: Chris Phillips still wants to stay in Ottawa and re-sign with the club. But if he doesn’t get a guarantee that he’ll get an extension by the trade deadline, he’ll have to decide if he’d waive his no-trade clause. “Now, being more involved with having to make decisions that effect the outcome is the biggest difference,” [Phillips] said. “Ultimately, I am (in control), when it comes right down to it, but it has been pretty open communication with Bryan. It’s not like we’re having a standoff and see who blinks first. We’re talking about it. Between us and them, it is a collective decision, but I guess I have the final say.”
- Will DePaoli via twitter: The Washington Capitals have shown preliminary interest in Alex Kovalev. Penguins and Lightning also interested.
- Will DePaoli of Inside Pittsburgh Sports: The Penguins are looking at Panthers Cory Stillman and Chris Higgins. The asking price for Higgins was higher than what the Penguins expected.
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: The Penguins may have interest in Panthers winger Cory Stillman.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: Some league executives believe Brian Burke may have a deal in place for a defenseman. Brian Huddle via twitter: reports that Dreger said on the radio that it may be for John-Michael Liles.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Brian Burke in email regarding Kessel being shopped rumors, “No. He has not, and will not, be shopped.”
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Bryan McCabe would rather stay in Florida, but has been told that he likely won’t be back next year. There is lots of interest in him, but remains to been seen if he’ll waive his no-trade.
- Dennis Bernstein via twitter: Red Wings GM Ken Holland said they have nothing on the front burner.
- Randy Sportak of the Calgary Sun: Flames GM Jay Feaster said he doesn’t want to trade anyone from their roster as he doesn’t want to disrupt the chemistry of the room.
- James Gordon via twitter: Scouts at last night’s Ottawa-Florida game: Penguins, Kings, Canucks, Rangers, Canadians, Lightning, Coyotes and Blackhawks.
- Chris Vivlamore via twitter: Scouts at last night’s Atlanta-Buffalo game: Canucks, Sharks, Blackhawks, Leafs, Wild, Canadiens, Rangers, Blue Jackets, Senators, Blues, Stars, Hurricanes and Oilers.
Leafs have list of 5 Dmen … Flames looking for Dman, lack trade chips … Pens considering Kovalev … Canes liked Liles
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Rumors on February 22nd, 2011
- Darren Dreger of TSN: The Maple Leafs have a list of 5 defenseman they are after, and trade offers have been made. John-Michael Liles is one Dman they’ve looked at, but the Avalanche may want to hold off a week before deciding if they want to make a move. The Leafs have shown interest in Dustin Penner, but he Oilers are under no pressure to move him. GM Tambellini will be looking for 1st round pick or top prospect as starting point.
- Kevin Allen of the USA Today: The Canucks may still need to a defenseman, even if some of their guys return. The Penguins are still looking to add, but won’t give up valuable assets (ie. 1st round pick). Several teams have inquired about Stephen Weiss, and they Panthers may be willing to look at doing a ‘true hockey deal.’ The Sabres would like to make a move, but find the prices too high at the moment. If the Coyotes look to add anything, it would have to be a dollar-for-dollar deal. The Senators would like to trade Chris Phillips and Alex Kovalev. The Thrashers are still looking at what is available.
- Dave Molinari and Shelly Anderson of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: Even after adding James Neal, the Penguins are seriously considering adding right winger Alex Kovalev. Bob McKenzie via twitter: The Penguins want to add another winger, and may have to settle with Kovalev for a late pick as the asking price for better players is too high.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: The Flames would like to add another defense, hence Hagman going on waivers. GM Feaster doesn’t have a 2nd or 3rd round pick this year. Bob McKenzie via twitter: Feaster doesn’t have many trade chips as he doesn’t want to move a roster player, or keeping trading away draft pick. Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Feaster told LeBrun that he doesn’t want to move 2012 draft picks to make up for the lack of 2011 picks.
- Vicki Hall of the Calgary Herald: Calgary Flames GM Jay Feaster,
“One of the things I think we need to do in order to have long-term success is to stop what I call the deficit spending, ” Feaster said. “You end up moving a second for next year and a third for next year at the trade deadline this year, and you’re going to find yourself right back in the same situation.”
“We’re not going to be a seller,” Feaster said, firmly. “This hockey organization doesn’t deserve that. This group has played right back into contention, and our mission hasn’t changed since Day 1. And it certainly hasn’t changed since I was named on Dec. 28.
“And that is to make the playoffs.”
- Luke DeCock via twitter: The Carolina Hurricanes were high on John-Michael Liles at one point, and he may be on the move.
- On Frozen Pond via facebook: Peter DeBoar on the Panthers, “In the position we’re in, what management has said, has heightened things. More guys are on notice that they might not be here at the end of the weekend.”
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: The NY Islanders have no intention of putting Evgeni Nabokov on waivers.
NHL rumors involving the several Senators, Canadiens, Kings, Panthers, Blue Jackets and more
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Audio, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 22nd, 2011
- Sean Fitz-Gerald of the National Post: “We’ve stripped down and added a lot of young assets,” Burke told the crowd. “We’ve gone through, now, the selling part of this process. We are buyers now. We’re trying to add a defenceman right now.” Burke said he wanted to add a defenseman by the end of [today], and has a couple things going on. MacArthur could be moved before the deadline if contract talks don’t go well. Burke hopes to make some more moves before the 28th trade deadline.
- Brian Burke Audio from James Mirtle of the Globe and Mail:
- Andy Strickland of True Hockey: Sources told Strickland that the Panthers and Rangers had a deal almost done for Bryan McCabe several weeks ago but he broke his jaw. They may re-visit the deal. McCabe has a no-movement clause and he may be very selective as to where he’d go.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: The Senators and Chris Phillips have talked contract extension (possibly a 3 year deal), but if they can’t get a deal done, he could be moved. Chris Neil has apparently given the Senators a list of 10 teams he can’t be dealt too. The Rangers could be interested in Neil who has 2 years with a $2 million cap hit. The Rangers are said to be interested in Filip Kuba, who has another year left at a $3.7 million cap hit. There may only be 1 or 2 teams interested in Alexei Kovalev, and he wouldn’t cost much.
- Helene Elliott of the LA Times: The Kings were interested in James Neal before he was dealt yesterday but weren’t interested in giving up one of their top defenseman for him. They’ve looked David Booth and Ales Hemsky, but won’t move Brayden Schenn.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: The Oilers could buyout Sheldon Souray after the season. Coach Tom Renney added, “Would the Oilers take him back next year? I would keep an open mind,” said Renney. The fact that Souray has 1 more year left on his deal is what likely scared teams off. Souray’s foot speed was also an issue.
- David Pagnotta of the Fourth Period: The Canadiens are looking for a top 6 forward and a shutdown defenseman. Dustin Penner, Rostislav Klesla, Kristian Huselius, Chris Phillips and Ryan Suter have been linked to the Canadiens. Canadiens GM Yannick Weber, Andrei Kostitsyn and Lars Eller, among others may be being used as trade bait.The Kings are after Ales Hemsky. Wayne Simmonds and Brayden Schenn may be available for a ‘top-line player’. Brad Richards will also interest in the LA Kings. It’s being said that Richards will only waive his no-trade if GM Joe Nieuwendyk insists. The Rangers would love to get Richards, but may be in a better position to trade for Hemsky, McCabe and/or Brad Boyes. Michael Del Zotto might be moved for right player. Del Zotto may have been in discussion in a deal involving Tomas Kaberle before he was dealt to Boston. John-Michael Liles is being “shopped hard” by the Avalanche.Aside for Klesla and Huselius, the Blue Jackets may be shopping Jakub Voracek. GM Scott Howson didn’t like what the Penguins wanted for Alex Goligoski. The Flames can’t afford Huselius, and could be looking for a gritty 2nd-3rd liner, Chris Neil could be an option.
- Mike Harrington of the Buffalo News: Teams like Pittsburgh, Washington or Los Angeles could be interested in Tim Connolly. Many people will be surprised if Connolly last the week. Matthew Barnaby adds via twitter: They can’t wait to get Connolly’s contract off the books.
- Allen Panzeri of the Ottawa Citizen: Senators forward Peter Regin suffered a shoulder injury on Saturday in a game against the Leafs and could be done for the season. “We won’t know more until the test,” he said. “It could be worse (than we first thought).”
- Mark Emmons of the San Jose Mercury News: Sharks forward Scott Nicol is out with an upper-body injury. Defenseman Marc-Edouard Vlasic practiced yesterday and could be in the lineup tonight. Kent Huskins is not likely to play.
- Terry Koshan of the Toronto Sun: Mike Brown and Colby Armstrong should be back in the Leafs lineup tonight on a line with Darryl Boyce. Joey Crabb and Christian Hanson could be healthy scratches. The Leafs might have to call up a defenseman as Brett Lebda has a big bruise on his leg after being hit with a slapshot.
Rumored Avalanche-Kings deal … Rangers turning to McCabe … Canadiens after Penner, others … Richards not interested in Leafs
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Rumors on February 21st, 2011
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: The Colorado Avalanche now have 5 centers (Duchene, Stastny, McClement, O’Reilly and Dupuis), with Matt Duchene getting close to returning, he’s expected to practice today. Dater expects one of them to be traded by the deadline, with Duchene likely being the only one that would be on the ‘untouchable’ list. Dater has heard a few rumors regarding Paul Stastny including, “Stastny, TJ Galiardi and maybe a pick/another player to Los Angeles for Jack Johnson, Jonathan Bernier and Jarret Stoll.” Dater adds, “This is a blog, so I am NOT reporting that as a fact, or, again, something I have great confidence in.” Dennis Bernstein via twitter: Berstein can’t see that rumored deal happening. David Pagnotta via twitter: He’s hearing that the Avalanche could be pulling off another big deal, lots of chatter coming from there.
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: Marian Gaborik was forced out of yesterday’s game with a concussion. Coach Tortorella said that Gaborik complained intermittently for a week for not feeling well, but didn’t miss any time. It might change the interest Gaborik was getting leading up to the trade deadline. The Kings were rumored to ask about him. As to the extent of his concussion, it’s not known yet.
- Mark Spector via twitter: The Rangers have turned their attention to Bryan McCabe after one last discussion about putting a claim in for Sheldon Souray.
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: Indications are that the Blue Jackets won’t be putting a waiver claim on Sheldon Souray. Darren Dreger via twitter: One team that was interested in Souray, no longer is.
- David Pagnotta via twitter: The Canadiens are pushing for Dustin Penner and others, Alex Kovalev could be a last resort.
- Marc Antonie Godin via twitter: The Canadiens were making a play for Chris Stewart before he was traded to the Blues.
- Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun: Brad Richards supposedly told a Tampa source that his first choice is to remain with the Stars. His other choices would be to return to the Lightning or to the Rangers, and hinted he may have some interest in Carolina. “When asked about Toronto, he apparently said nothing but shook his head.”
- Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: Rossi has heard from an agent and Penguins source that the asking price for Ales Hemsky is “huge.” “At least first round pick and a player off the NHL roster, probably more.”
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: (Q & A) Heika doesn’t think the Stars were in on any Tomas Kaberle talks as the Lenders may not want to add more than a $1 million in salary to this year’s payroll. He’s being to think the Stars won’t do much at the trade deadline. Heika thinks that Stars GM Joe Nieuwendyk has to listen to all offers for Brad Richards. If Richards waived his no trade clause “it would be because Joe asked him to.” If he reaches free agency, Richards would likely chose the team he felt he had the best chance to win the cup.
- Mark Spector via twitter: Spector notes the Flyers are still not sold on their goaltending.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: If Sharks defenseman Marc-Eduoard Vlasic’s upper-body injury is serious, they could be looking to add another defenseman. They are not saying much on Antero Niittymaki, so they may need a backup goalie. With Stars forward Jamie Benn still out with a shoulder injury, it lessens the chances of James Neal being dealt for an offensive defenseman.
- Terry Koshan of the Toronto Sun: Leafs GM Brian Burke has cleared more cap space, and is looking to add a defenseman before the deadline.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Matheson’s top 10 list of players that could be traded: 1. Brad Richards 2. Ales Hemsky 3. Bryan McCabe 4. Chris Phillips 5. Dustin Penner 6. Nikolai Zherdev 7. Jan Hejda 8. Marty Reasoner 9. Jason Arnott 10. Tomas Vokoun. “Wild Cards” to be traded: 1. Zach Bogosian, 2. Ladislav Smid, Steve Montador, 3. Dan Carcillo, 4. Wayne Simmonds, 5. Michael Ryder, 6. Brent Sopel, 7. Tim Connolly, 8. Stephen Weiss, 9. Alex Kovalev, 10. Jim Vandemeer, 11. Mike Grier and 12. Rostislav Klesla. Players that make too much: 1. J.P. Dumont, 2. Nik Antropov, 3. Kristian Huselius, 4. Michael Ryder and 5. Mike Komisarek.
Lou says no to Souray … Gaborik has a concussion … Asking price for Hemsky huge, Kings still interested … Richard-Stars talking
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on February 20th, 2011
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Lou Lamoriello said that the Devils haven’t put a claim on Seldon Souray, and won’t be.
- Andrew Gross via twitter: Marian Gaborik has a concussion.
- Dennis Bernstein via twitter: Even in Calgary, Bernstein is hearing the LA Kings are pressing hard for Ales Hemsky.
- Rob Rossi via twitter: Penguins source is saying the asking price for Ales Hemsky is huge.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: The Dallas Stars and Brad Richards have quietly been having talks, though there hasn’t been much progress. It’s more likely the Oilers will move Dustin Penner, Gilbert Brule, Jim Vandermeer and Ladislav Smid than Ales Hemsky. The Islanders are looking to trade Radek Martinek, Bruno Gervais and Zenon Konopka. Expect the Avalanche to make a pitch of Tomas Vokoun who’ll be a UFA in the off-season. Rangers are looking Filip Kuba. Scouts have called Sheldon Souray’s performance in the AHL as “brutal”. Even if Pascal Leclair plays again this season, his NHL career may come to an end as nobody may want to sign the UFA. The Canadiens, Sharks and Canucks have interest in John-Michael Liles.
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: “If there are three teams interested in Ottawa RW Alexei Kovalev there are three GM’s who haven’t been watching him all year.”
- Eric Stevens of the OC Register: Ducks goalie Jonas Hiller was was placed on the IR earlier this week after another bout of dizziness and lightheadedness, is “believed to have a balance issue according to a team spokesman.” He is to meet a physical therapist tomorrow and team doctors have ruled out a concussion.
- Kent Youngblood of the Star-Tribune: Mikko Koivu injured his left hand blocking a shot in the 1st period of Friday’s game. It’s not known at the moment how long he’ll be out, more should be known tomorrow. If the Wild look to make a move for a center, they could look at, Jason Arnott, Tim Connolly or Rob Niedermayer.
- John Vogl of the Buffalo News: If the Sabres improve their play they may become buyers, but if they play like they did against the Leafs and Blues, they may look to the future. They have the expiring contracts of Tim Connolly and Steve Montador, and haven’t had any contract talks with either. Team captain Craig Rivet could be moved.
Recent Comments