Posts Tagged Alexei Ponikarovsky

League to look at other long-term deals? More ‘Hawks Options … Turco to decide in 7-10 days

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on July 28th, 2010

  • William DePoali via twitter: Gary Bettman said yesterday that if the league wins its case against Ilya Kovalchuk, they may look in to other long-term deals.
  • Richard Durrett of ESPN Dallas: According to his agent, Marty Turco is going to play for a contending team next season. He has 3 potential landing spots, and will make a decision in the next 7 to 10 days.
  • Jesse Rogers of ESPN Chicago: The Blackhawks and Antti Niemi have submitted their written briefs before their Thursday arbitration hearing. The ‘Hawks would like to keep Niemi but it all comes down to the price. One option to save cap space would be to go with a 21 man roster (2 below the max, which most carry), with the 21st player being able to play both forward and defense. If Niemi’s salary is below $2.5 million (and Victor Stalberg is sent to minors, saving $300K) they could do that (they’d also have a $1 million cushion for injuries). If the number is between $2.5 and $3 million, they’d have to make another move. If it’s over $3 million, he may not be their starting goalie next season. Marty Turco could be an option if they lose Niemi, they might be able to get him between $2 and $2.5 million.
  • Chric Kuc of the Chicago Tribune: Niemi is likely seeking between $3 and $4 million a season, the ‘Hawks probably closer to $2 million. The ‘Hawks could accept any ruling either way, and look to trade him, or someone else.
  • Andy Strickland via twitter: The Boston Bruins are talking to Bill Guerin, but would need to make a roster move first. Penguins are still interested in him.
  • Michael Arace of the Colubus Dispatch: (written before the Blue Jackets and Anton Stralman settled before their arbitration, 1 year, $1.95 million.) The Blue Jackets will look to improve their defense, and will look via trades and not free agency. 3 options could be Tomas Kaberle, Kevin Bieksa and Sheldon Souray. Arace believes the Blue Jackets have made a pitch for Kaberle, inquired about Bieksa, and made a ‘token’ call about Souray. Nikita Filatov’s name probably would come up.
  • Tim Benz of Inside Pittsburgh Sports: Penguins GM Ray Shero hasn’t completely ruled out bringing Bill Guerin back next season, and is still in touch with him. But at the moment they are looking at young kids to fill the holes.
  • James Mirtle via twitter: Alexei Ponikarovsky signed a 1 year deal with the Kings (for $3.2 million cap hit). He wanted a 4 year from the Leafs on a ‘big ticket’ when he was with them.
  • Michael Russo via twitter: Willie Mitchell could be a possibility for the Wild, but he’s not looking to take physicals just yet.

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NHLPA files grievance … NHL Rumors involving Frolov, Ponikarovsky, Sutton, Wheeler, Stralman

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on July 26th, 2010

  • NHLPA.com: Media release from the NHLPA stating they’ve filed a grievance against the NHL for the rejection of Ilya Kovalchuk-New Jersey Devils contract.
  • Darren Dreger via twitter: August 1st is when the Maple Leafs could be pushing clubs to make their best Tomas Kaberle offer, if not, he could remain a Leaf.
  • Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: The Avalanche are about $8 million below the $43.8 cap floor, with RFA’s Peter Mueller and Chris Stewart left to re-sign. There is no rush to sign the two, but it’s expected to happen at some point.
  • Chris Botta via twitter: It’s down to 2 western teams for Andy Sutton’s services, could be finalized this week.
  • Jimmy Murphy via twitter: The Bruins and Blake Wheeler will be going to arbitration tomorrow as they were unable to to get something done beforehand.
  • Aaron Portzline via twitter: The Columbus Blue Jackets have requested a 1-year arbitration ruling for the Anton Stralman hearing, giving them the option to walk away from the contract if they are not happy with the ruling.

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Ilya Kovalchuk update #624 … Chicago may now have to move Patrick Sharp

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on July 13th, 2010

  • Helene Elliott of the LA Times: Ilya Kovalchuk and his agent met with Los Angeles Kings GM Dean Lombardi yesterday. Club executives didn’t say much, and there is no indication if they were any closer on a deal. Kovalchuk toured the practice facility and looked around the area to see if it would be comfortable for his family. The Kings still need Kovalchuk to come down from his 10 year, $100 million asking price. Kovalchuk met several Kings players, Dustin Brown, Jarret Stoll and Matt Green at the practice facility.
  • EJ Hradek via Twitter: The Chicago Blackhawks could move Reasoner and/or Kopecky to save some cap space. If Niemi is looking to sign for too much, there are other goalies on the market.
  • Pierre LeBrun via Twitter: Jesse Rogers of ESPNChicago believes Patrick Sharp may be available now, and he’ll be easier to move.
  • Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: So now that the Blackhawks will be matching the 4 year, $14 million offer sheet for Niklas Hjalmarsson, they may now have to shed some more salary. The Hawks have been trying to move Brian Campbell and his $7.14 million cap hit for months with no luck. Patrick Sharp and his $3.9 million cap hit is more likely. Teemu Selanne will meet with Ducks GM Bob Murray next week. If Alexander Frolov doesn’t sign with an NHL club this week, he may head to the KHL where there are interested teams. Alexei Ponikarovsky is getting some interest, but those teams need to clear cap space first.
  • David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News: The San Jose Sharks are still looking for a defenseman after the Chicago Blackhawks matched their offer sheet for Niklas Hjalmarsson. Signing his own free agents is also a priority for Wilson now, with Devin Setoguchi and Jason Demers at the top of the list.
  • The Toronto Sun: 2008-09 NHL executive salaries:
  • Commissioner Gary Bettman $7,230,783
  • Deputy commissioner Bill Daly $1,910,402
  • Director of hockey operations Colin Campbell $1,389,142
  • Chief financial officer Craig Harnett $938,367
  • Chief operating officer John Collins $878,226
  • Strategist Ed Horne, who is no longer with the league, $794,238
  • General counsel David Zimmerman $577,394
  • EVP, finance, Joseph DeSousa $520,299
  • Director of officiating Stephen Walkom, who is no longer with the league, $488,736
  • SVP, hockey operations, Mike Murphy, $440,317

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Top 25 NHL Free Agents for 2010

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents on June 30th, 2010

Here is our Top 25 NHL Unrestricted Free Agents list for 2010. It has been labelled a weak crop for this years NHL unrestricted free agents, especially if you’re looking for scoring help. There are a several defenseman that should draw plenty of interest. In putting together this list, we took into consideration age, position, and likelihood of signing with a new team (ie. Nicklas Lidstrom would only sign with Detroit, so we left him off the list). Check out a complete list of 2010 NHL free agents.

Rk. Player

2009-10 Team
Pos.
Age
09-10

Cap #
 Notes
1 Ilya Kovalchuk
NJ
LW
26
$7,500,000
 Re-signed with New Jersey, 15 years, $100 million.
2 Patrick Marleau
SJ
C
29
$6,300,000
 Re-signed with the Sharks. 4 years, $27.6 million.
3 Anton Volchenkov
OTT
D
27
$3,200,000
 Signs with the Devils. 6 years, $25.5 million.
4 Paul Martin
NJ
D
28
$4,500,000
 Signs with the Penguins. 5 years, $25 million.
5 Evgeni Nabokov
PHI
G
33
$6,000,000
 Signs with SKA St. Petersburg of the KHL. 4 years, $6 million
6 Tomas Plekanec
MON
C
26
$2,750,000
 Re-signed with the Canadiens. 6 years, $30 million.
7 Dan Hamhuis
PIT
D
26
$2,500,000
 Signs with the Canucks. 6 years, $27 million.
8 Alexander Frolov
LA
LW
27
$4,000,000
 Signs with the Rangers. 1 year, $3 million.
9 Sergei Gonchar
PIT
D
35
$5,500,000
 Signs with the Ottawa Senators. 3 years, $16.5 million.
10 Marty Turco
DAL
G
33
$5,400,000
 Signed with the Blackhawks. 1 year, $1.3 million.
11 Zbynek Michalek
PHO
D
26
$1,500,000
 Signs with the Penguins. 5 years, $20 million.
12 Alexei Ponikarovsky
PIT
LW
29
$2,500,000
 Signs with the Kings. 1 year, $3 million ($3.2 mill. cap hit)
13 Matthew Lombardi
PHO
C
27
$2,350,000
 Signed with the Predators. 3 years, $10.5 million.
14 Dan Ellis
MON
G
29
$2,000,000
 Signs with the Lightning. 2 years, $3 million.
15 Dennis Seidenberg
BOS
D
27
$2,250,000
 Re-signed with the Bruins. 4 years, $13 million.
16 Pavel Kubina
ATL
D
32
$5,000,000
 Signed with the Lightning. 2 years, $7.7 million.
17 Chris Mason
STL
G
33
$3,000,000
 Signs with the Thrashers. 2 years, $3.7 million
18 Henrik Tallinder
BUF
D
30
$3,250,000
 Signed with the Devils. 4 years, $13.5 million.
19 Maxim Afinogenov
ATL
RW
30
$800,000
 Signed in the KHL. 5 years.
20 Toni Lydman
BUF
D
31
$3,150,000
 Signed with the Ducks. 3 years, $9 million.
21 Lee Stempniak
PHO
RW
26
$3,500,000
 Re-signed with the Coyotes. 2 years, $3.8 million.
22 Olli Jokinen
NYR
C
30
$5,500,000
 Signs with the Flames. 2 years, $6 million.
23 Alex Tanguay
TB
LW
29
$2,500,000
 Signed with the Flames. 1 year, $1.7 million.
24 Willie Mitchell
VAN
D
32
$3,500,000
 Signed with the Kings. 2 years, $7 million.
25 Michael Leighton
PHI
G
28
$600,000
 Re-signed with the Flyers. 2 years, $3.1 million.

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Maple Leafs interested in Hamhuis? Kovalchuk update, well sort of …

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 19th, 2010

  • Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: The Bruins continue to shop Tim Thomas around in hope of freeing up some cash before July 1st. The Blues had shown some interest before they acquired Halak. Other teams that could be looking for a starting goalie are Philadelphia, Washington, San Jose and Tampa. Thomas is 36-years old with 3-years left at a $5 million cap hit. The Lightning made a run at Carey Price, but the Canadiens had already decided to keep him. The Capitals are rumored to be shopping Alexander Semin around the league, looking for 2 top prospects and a pick. The Florida Panthers are shopping Nathan Horton, Rostislav Olesz, Radek Dvorak, and Keith Ballard.
  • Tom Gulitti of The Record: Gulitti runs through the Ilya Kovalchuk free agent situation. Kovalchuk won’t be signing with the KHL or the New Jersey Devils before the July 1st free agent date. The Devil’s and Kovalchuk continue to talk. There is still a possibility of signing with the Devils on July 1st. His opinion of the organization has increased over time. He wants to play for a winning team, and his first choice is to stay in the NHL, with the KHL as a fall back.
  • Damien Cox of the Toronto Star: It’s been well documented that the Toronto Maple Leafs are one of many teams interested in Patrick Sharp and Nathan Horton, but Cox throws out the name Dan Hamhuis. Dan Hamhuis is a UFA, Sharp and Horton would would have to be acquired through trade. What the team does with Tomas Kaberle would influence any of the above move(s).
  • Tim Panaccio of CSN: The Flyers had interest in trading for Carey Price before the Canadiens shipped Halak off to St. Louis. TSN reported that the Flyers, Lightning and San Jose were interested in Halak, though Flyers GM Paul Holmgren denied it. The Flyers are uncertain if Michael Leighton could be their #1 goalie next year.
  • Eric Stephens of the OC Register: According to James Wisniewski’s agent, they are not in talks with Anaheim, and there is the possibility that the RFA is dealt. Wisniewski is coming off a 1-year deal at $2.75 million. He had 30 points last season in 69 games, and was in the top-20 in ice time (24.:20).
  • Mike Russo of the Star-Tribune: The Minnesota Wild could be open to trading the 9th overall pick in this year’s NHL draft, but it would have to be for a young player that could give them 8-10 years of solid production. The Wild have varying degrees of interest for centers Patrick Sharp, Jeff Carter,  and Stephen Weiss.
  • Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: After not having much success with the Penguins after he was acquired at the trade deadline for Luca Caputi, Alexei Ponikarovsky most likely won’t be re-signed. Jay McKee probably won’t be back either. The Pens are still considering bringing back Sergei Gonchar, Jordan Leopold, Mark Eaton, Matt Cooke and Bill Guerin.

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Salary cap could increase $2 million which would the Penguins and others … James Wisniewski may seek #2 Dman money and/or be traded … NHL Draft Rumors

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 29th, 2010

  • Shelly Anderson of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: The Pittsburgh Penguins and the rest of the league received some good news in that according to Gary Bettman, the salary cap could be going up by about $2 million from it’s current $56.8 million. This might make it a bit easier for the Penguins to re-sign Sergei Gonchar and Matt Cooke. GM Ray Shero said that Ruslan Fedotenko won’t be back, and that they are talking to Jay McKee, but they might go a different direction. Bill Gurein wants to play next year, but the Pens have to see if he fits in to their plans. No decision has been made on whether they want to bring Alexei Ponikarovsky back or not.
  • Eric Stephens of the OC Register: The Anaheim Ducks will retain the negotiating rights with James Wisniewski by offering him a qualifying offer before the June 25th cut off date. Wisniewski may be looking for a nice raise on his one-year, $2.75 million deal he signed last year. He was 20th in ice time and may be seeking #2 Dman money. If that is the case, look for the Ducks to continue to try and trade him (at the deadline they were trying to move him). Ducks GM Bob Murray has yet to meet with Saku Koivu or his agent. Murray has talked to the agent of Sheldon Brookbank.
  • Damian Cristodero of the St. Petersburgh Times: They can’t talk contract extension until after July 1st, but Lightning GM Steve Yzerman plans to start conversations with Steven Stamkos. Stamkos agent told the paper he’d “welcome” the discussion.
  • Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette: Canadiens GM Pierre Gauthier said there won’t be a major overhaul of the club. The Canadiens have about 11 million to sign 7 players. They’ll look to trade both Kostitsyn’s but that could be difficult. The 6’5″ Ryan O’Byrne could also be trade bait. Gauthier and Tomas Plekanec’s agent have talked but no offer has been made, and it’s doubtful the Canadiens will overpay for him. He’s rumored to be after $5 million a season. Jaroslav Halak has arbitration rights, and has put up numbers similar to goalies in the $4-5 million range.
  • Gare Joyce of ESPN: The Florida Panthers might be willing to trade down from their #3 draft slot. One Eastern Conference GM said he thinks draft prospect, Jack Campbell, could be a top-10 pick. Kirill Kabanov’s draft stock continues to be surrounded by red flags. One top scout said they won’t interview him, therefore won’t draft him. He met with 17 teams. Brett Connolly who’s draft slot has been in question due battling an injury all season (hip injury), survived the testing and looked good. He’s projected as a top-10 pick, possible a top-5 if further medical tests are good.

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Malkin not going anywhere? Taylor Hall at center? Kubina and Afinogenov could be back with the Thrashers

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 21st, 2010

  • Ron Cook of the Pittsburgh Post Gazette: Cook doesn’t think the Penguins will bring back UFAs: Sergei Gonchar, Alexei Ponikarovsky, Bill Guerin, Jordan Leopold, Ruslan Fedotenko, and Jay McKee. Matt Cooke (depending on how much money he wants) and Mark Eaton are the best possibilities to be brought back by the Pens.
  • Ken Weibe of QMI Agency in the Toronto Sun: Windsor Spitfires coach thinks Taylor Hall should be the #1 pick (not a surprise since he coaches him). Part of the belief that the Oilers could select Tyler Seguin with the #1 pick is that they need a ‘center of the future’. Coach Bob Boughner says Hall is naturally a center … “Taylor is a centre naturally, he’s playing left wing on our team but he’ll take some draws once in a while and he’s good on draws,” said Boughner. “I don’t doubt that if he goes to the next level and they need a centre, he could play centre as well. He’s pretty strong on the puck. “The reason I put him on the wing is to conserve his energy and expose other teams wide because he has that speed.”
  • Kevin Allen of the USA Today: The Atlanta Thrashers have talked with 2 of their UFAs, Pavel Kubina and Maxim Afinogenov, and come away thinking they have a good chance at re-signing them. Allen thinks Kubina will want a deal in the 4 year, $16 million range, which might be problem for the Thrashers. It doesn’t look like Colby Armstrong will be back with the Thrashers next season.
  • Gordon McIntyre of the Vancouver Province: Canucks RFA Mason Raymond could be on the trade block this summer. The going rate for a 25 goal scorer is around $2.5-3 million, but how do you offer him over $2 million when Alex Burrows makes that much and scored 38 goals. Raymond’s game is also similar to another RFA, Michael Grabner. The Canucks could trade him for a top-4 defenseman, or for some more size up front (if they are giving him up for more size, that player has to have some skill as well).
  • Craig Custance of the Sporting News: There are currently 4 teams without a head coach: Atlanta, Columbus, New Jersey, and Tampa. Custance goes through top coaching candidates out there. “The AHL Contingent” – Guy Boucher (Hamilton), Scott Arniel (Manitoba), and Kevin Dineen (Portland). “Top NHL Assistants” – Craig Ramsey (Boston), Paul MacLean (Detroit), Brent Peterson (Nashville). “Stanley Cup Winners” – Bob Hartley and Ken Hitchcock. “Recent NHL Experience” – Craig MacTavish, John Stevens, and Rick Tocchet.

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The Penguins and Devils have some tough choices ahead

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on May 14th, 2010

  • Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: The Pittsburgh Penguins have a solid nucleus locked up for at least next season: Crosby, Malkin, Staal, Fleury, Orpik and Letang. Due to their salary contraints, several players won’t be re-signed, or if they do it will be a discounted price. Their UFA list contains: Gonchar, Ponikarovsky, Guerin, Cooke, Fedotenko, Leopold, Eaton and McKee. The 36-year Gonchar is looking for a 2 year deal worth more than $5 million. If they don’t bring Gonchar back, it would create a big hole that they’d need to fill.
  • Mark Everson of the NY Post: Everson thinks the New Jersey Devils will have to choose which left winger, Zach Parise or Ilya Kovalchuk, they’ll want to throw millions at, as they won’t be able to afford both after next season. Do they look to lock up Parise past next season, do they try to bring Kovalchuk back and let Parise go, or do they think they think they can make it with 2 high paid left wingers. I can see them locking up Parise long term, he’s turning out to be a top player in the league. Kovalchuk is probably looking for at least $8 million, Parise will be looking for something around $7 million, Elias is a $6 million cap hit, Rolston is at $5 million, and Zubrus is at $3.4 million. Paul Martin is also a UFA, and will be looking for more than his $3.833 cap hit, unless he’ll take something along the same lines to remain with the Devils.

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Ponikarovsky re-signing in Pittsburgh? Nonis staying with Leafs … Hemsky for #4, don’t count on it

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 11th, 2010

  • Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: The Pittsburgh Penguins gave up their number 2 prospect, Luca Caputi, at the trade deadline for Alexei Ponikarovsky, a deal that hasn’t played out as well as the Penguins had hoped. Ponikarovsky was brought in to be a top 6 forward and play with Evgeni Malkin, but he found himself dropped down to the 4th line, and then in the press box on Saturday. Though it’s unclear if they will look to bring him back next season, he might have to take less than he might get on the open market if he wants another shot playing with Malkin.
  • Darren Dreger of TSN: Maple Leafs number 2 man, Dave Nonis, was rumored to be one of the top candidates for the vacant Tampa Bay GM job, but it appears that that won’t be happening. Nonis is expected to be signing an extension with the Leafs that will keep him with the club through 2011-12.
  • Craig Custance of the Sporting News: Nicklas Lidstrom has enrolled his son in a Swedish school, though it doesn’t mean he’ll be retiring. “That’s something his age you have to do if we are going back to Sweden, otherwise he wouldn’t have a school,” Lidstrom said. “It’s something we had to do just to make sure, if we did go… he had a school to go to, otherwise we’d go back there and he wouldn’t be where he wanted to be.”
  • Bryan Mullen of the Tennessean: The Nashville Predators will most likely stay the course with their drafting philosophy, taking the best player regardless of position. The Preds don’t have their 2nd (Grebeshkov trade) and 4th (Boyd trade) round picks. I think they should be taking the best scoring forward, regardless if he’s a center or winger, the Preds need to score more goals.
  • Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Joe Pavelski is one of the top RFAs this summer, and could be in a similar situation as Phil Kessel was last year, and their numbers are similar. Pavelski could get an offer sheet from someone, but the Sharks have only $36 million tied up next so far, and would most likely match the offer (unless it’s crazy). Columbus GM, and former Oilers assistant GM Scott Howson is a big fan of Ales Hemsky, but don’t count on them sending the Number 4 draft pick to the Oilers for him. There’s a good chance Sergei Kostitsyn will be in the KHL next season. Tomas Vokoun’s $6.3 million salary may be to big for some teams to swallow, but the Panthers will try to again at the draft and/or in July. Florida could go with Scott Clemmensen and Jacob Markstrom if Vokoun is moved.

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Sale of Coyotes getting closer … Penguins UFAs … Shirokov Staying

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 4th, 2010

  • Randy Sportak of the Toronto Sun: Gary Bettman thinks the sale of the Phoenix Coyotes could be getting closer to being finalized. “The process continues. There is much that has to be done with the city of Glendale, both by the league and with the prospective owner, and it’s something we continue to work on.” Jerry Reinsdorf continues to work with both the league and Glendale. Bettman won’t put a timetable on when the process will be completed.
  • Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: The Penguins have 8 UFAs, 4 forwards, 4 defense. Forwards: Alexei Ponikarovsky, Bill Guerin, Ruslan Fedotenko and Matt Cooke. Defenseman: Sergei Gonchar, Mark Eaton, Jordan Leopold, and Jay McKee. Matt Cooke will most likely be back next season. Maybe one of either Leopold or Eaton would be resigned, unless Gonchar takes a hometown discount, which he hasn’t shown much public interest in doing. Some of the others would depend on what they are wanting to sign for, and for how long.
  • Matthew Sekeres of the Globe and Mail: There was a rumor out of Russia that Vancouver Canucks prospect Sergei Shirokov was planning on heading back the KHL next season. This appears to be nothing more than a rumor as Shirokov reiterated that he wants to play in the NHL, and plans on showing up at the Canucks training camp next fall. It was reported earlier this year that Shirokov was suspended by the KHL for 2 years for leaving his Russian club.
  • Bill Tiller of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution: The Columbus Blue Jackets and Atlanta Thrashers may be interested in Vancouver’s AHL affiliate, Manitoba Moose head coach Scott Arniel. Columbus has already received permission to speak to him, and will do so in the next couple days. Tampa Bay and New Jersey may also be interested in Arniel. The Thrashers will also look at their AHL affiliate coach, Don Lever.

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Stamkos and St. Louis Getting Extensions? Thornton Hurt … Boychuk Getting Suspended

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on March 28th, 2010

  • Erik Erlendsson of the Tampa Tribune: The Tampa Bay Lightning may be looking to extend both Martin St. Louis and Steven Stamkos. St. Louis will be entering the final year of his 6 year contract, and is the heart and soul of the Lightning. Stamkos has one year left on his entry level deal, and will be looking for some big bucks. A Stamkos deal could be along the lines of Crosby’s contract, $8.7 million.
  • Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal:
    • If the Oilers can’t trade for the 2nd overal pick in this years draft, maybe they should go after the 3rd, and pick up Cam Fowler.
    • The Dallas Stars will definitely trying to trade Fabian Brunnstrom this summer.
    • The 35-year-old Alex Tanguay is having a disappointing season in Tampa, which brings up the question, is his career over?
  • David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News: The San Jose Sharks got quite a scare when big Joe Thornton crashed awkwardly into the boards in the second period last night. It looked like he was favoring his right leg when he left the ice. His status for today’s game is not known. Thorton has played in 380 consectutive games for the Sharks.
  • Steve Conroy of the Boston Herald: The NHL may come after Boston Bruins Johnny Boychuk for a hit on Flames forward, Rene Bourque. Boychuk was given an elbowing major and a game misconduct.
  • Mike Zeisberger of the Toronto Sun: At the trade deadline the Maple Leafs and Penguins pulled off a trade that sent Alex Ponikarovsky to the Pens for Luca Caputi and Martin Skoula. Initially the Pens said they Caputi was one of 2 untouchables (Eric Tangradi would be the other). The Leafs told them that they were going to go in a different direction if thtey didn’t include Caputi.
  • Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: Alex Steen has been one of the Blues best forwards this season. He is a restricted free agent after the season, and both he and the Blues would like to get an extension done.

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    Other Fallouts from the Trade Deadline … Atlanta to Winnipeg, not now

    Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on March 5th, 2010

  • Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Some league executives aren’t happy with the Coyotes adding salary at the deadline, since they are still losing money, and the other owers are fitting the bill. They added more than $2.5 million in salary, and are losing $5 million a month.

    “You know where that money comes from?” one furious league executive asked. “It comes out of the owners’ pockets and they aren’t going to be happy with this because they’re already not happy with having to foot the bill for Phoenix in the first place.”

    “I just don’t understand this,” said the executive. “I guess the belief is if the Coyotes can make a long playoff run, then they’ll be able to recoup some of the money for the NHL.”

  • Ted Wyman of the Winnipeg Sun: About the rumors of the Atlanta Thrashers being moved to Winnipeg, Wyman has this to say “Get a grip, Winnipeg.” There hasn`t been a credible source to back up the rumor.
  • Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette: The Canadiens decided to keep both Jaroslav Halak and Carey Price at the deadline.” Gainey was a strong Carey Price supporter, but when Gauthier and head coach Jacques Martin say the Canadiens need two goaltenders down the stretch, they’re really saying they need Jaroslav Halak.” The Canadiens shopped Paul Mara around but didn’t find any takers.
  • Erik Erlendsson of the Tampa Tribune: Lightning GM Brian Lawton, “We were in on one big blockbuster deal that would ultimately have robbed us of our future, and we made the determination that we are going to remain disciplined and that we were not going to overpay things. And that was the theme for the day, lots of quantity, not quality.”
  • John Glennon of the Tennessean: The Predators were in on Alexei Ponikarovsky, with what they considered a very good offer. (Brian Burke did say received an offer of a 2nd and 4th round pick, but didn’t name the team.)
  • Chris Vivlamore of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution: The Thrashers tried to grant Slava Kozlov’s request of being traded, but was unable to find a playoff contender who wanted him. They never received an offer for him.

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    The Day after Deadline Day

    Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on March 4th, 2010

  • Stephen Harris of the Boston Herald: Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli had a frustrating day yesterday. Though he did bring in Dennis Seidenberg, and cleared out a little room to bring in a scoring forward, that forward never showed up. The Bruins had 7 forwards on their wish list; Alex Ponikarovsky, Raffi Torres, Ray Whitney, Keith Tkachuk, Wojtek Wolski, Cory Stillman, and Teemu Selanne. Though he was in on few deals, he didn’t want to match the asking price.
  • Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun: Tomas Kaberle was never asked to waive his no trade clause, but his agent did give Brian Burke a list of 3 teams that Kaberle would consider going to. Burke was obviously, unable to pull something off. The 3 teams weren’t mentioned, but my guess would be that they were Philadelphia, Boston, and Washington. “The key for me is we respected the no-trade clause. It was a small number of teams and I generally will not accept less than 10. A player can’t handcuff you that way. This was a rare case where Tomas, a special player, asked us to look into three cases and we did.” Burke also mentioned yesterday that they may look at signing Kaberle to an extension, but my guess is that he’ll be moved at the Draft.
  • Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquier: Despite all the phone calls the last couple days, the Flyers didn’t pull off any moves. Not having a 1st and 2nd round pick hampered what they could do. They showed interest in Colby Armstrong, Raffi Torres and Dan Hamhuis. The Flyers looked at other goalies but felt they weren’t an upgrade over Michael Leighton.
  • Tim Panaccio of CSNPhilly: “We looked around for a few things to see if anything made sense to really add without subtracting and nothing really came up that made sense,” Holmgren said. “We’re certainly not upset and we’re moving forward.” The Flyers looked at Dan Hamhuis, Raffi Torres, and Tomas Kaberle. The Predators may have asked for Ryan Parent and Braydon Coburn (Parent and another player as they didn’t have any high picks this year). The Flyers hoped to get Kaberle cheap. The lack of draft picks probably hurt their chances of acquiring someone.
  • Scott Burnside and Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: They breakdown a bunch of yesterday’s trades.
  • Shelly Anderson of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: Alexei Ponikarovsky won’t make his Penguins debut until the weekend, and may find himself alongside Evgeni Malkin.
  • Derek Van Diest of the Edmonton Sun: Sheldon Souray developed an infection in his surgically repaired hand, and may be done for the season.
  • Larry Brooks of the NY Post: The Rangers decided to stay put yesterday. They found the prices for Dan Hamhuis and Raffi Torres too expensive. They were thought to be interested in Pavol Demitra but nothing really developed.
  • Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Penguins: Penguins GM Ray Shero weighs in on trade deadline.
  • James Gordon of the Ottawa Citizen: Senators coach Cory Clouston said Filip Kuba is doubtful for tonights game with an injury that isn’t ‘serious’.

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    Alexei Ponikarovsky Traded to Pittsburgh

    Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Trades on March 2nd, 2010

    It is official,  the Maple Leafs have traded left winger Alexei Ponikarovsky to the Pittsburgh Penguins for prospect Luca Caputi and the expiring contract of defenseman Martin Skoula.

    Ponikarovsky would most likely be lined up with Sidney Crosby. In 61 games this season, Ponikarovsky has 19 goals and 22 assists. In 477 career games, he has 114 goals and 143 assists, for 257 points. He’s a big guy at 6’4″ and 220 pounds, but he’s not a physical player.

    Caputi was drafted by the Penguins in the 4th round, 111th overall in 2007. The 6’3″ left winger is from Toronto. In 54 AHL games this season he’s scored 23 goals and added 24 assists, to go along with 61 PIM. In 9 NHL games the last 2 seasons, he’s scored 2 goals and added an assist. He gives the Leafs a potential top 6 forward that has some good size.

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    Alexei Ponikarovsky Trade Rumors

    Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on March 2nd, 2010

  • 9:54 PM: Darren Dreger: Pending trade call, Ponikarovsky for Caputi and Skoula
  • 9:37 PM: Damien Cox: Leafs will likely also take Martin Skoula along with Caputi for Ponikarovsky.
  • 9:19 PM: TheFourthPeriod: Pagnotta is being told a draft pick may also be on it’s way to Toronto
  • 8:50 PM: Bob McKenzie: Deal in place for Ponikarovsky to head to Pittsburgh for Luca Caputi. Pens need to create cap room first.
  • 8:41 PM: Bob McKenzie: Ponikarovsky to Pittsburgh is close, for a prospect.
  • 8:24 PM: Andy Strickland: Ponikarovsky will most likely be dealt in the morning. It’s down to 2 or 3 teams, with one team believed to be the LA Kings.
  • 7:34 PM: Bob McKenzie: Tangradi won’t be part of any Pittsburgh package for Poni.
  • 7:01 PM: Darren Dreger: Maple Leafs getting close on a deal involving Ponikarovsky
  • 6:52 PM: Nick Kypreos: Alex Ponikarovsky won’t be in the lineup tonight.
  • 6:51 PM: Kevin Allen: Leafs getting action on Alexei Ponikarovsky, should land them a good prospect or active player, not a 1st rounder.
  • 3:59 PM: TheFourthPeriod: Alexei Ponikarovsky is close to be dealt. The Kings, Penguins, and Predators have shown serious interest. The Leafs are hoping for a 1st round pick, but might take a 2nd and top prospect.
  • 10:43 AM: TheFouthPeriod: The Kings may have moved on from Ray Whitney and may target, Slava Kozlov, Alexei Ponikarovsky, Raffi Torres or Paul Kariya.

    • March 1st

  • John Glennon of the Tennessean: The Predators coud use some scoring depth, and/or someone that can kill penalties. They’ll most likely look to add a rental player, instead of one with a longer contract. Dan Hamhuis and/or Dan Ellis could be moved out. If they move Hamhuis, they’d definitely need to bring in another Dman or 2. Potential targets could be Maxim Afinogenov, Colby Armstrong, Jeff Halpren, Ethan Moreau, Alexei Ponikarovsky, Rob Niedermayer, Lee Stempniak, Raffi Torres, and Ray Whitney.
  • Steve Conroy of the Boston Herald: Bruins GM, Petter Chiarelli has got a couple deals going, but nothing is fore sure yet. He’s looking to get a top 9 forward that has an offensive side, and will most likely be a rental player. Ray Whitney’s price might be too high, with other possibilities, Selanne, Ponikarovsky, or Kozlov. On the Dman side of things, Dan Hamhuis and James Wisniewski could be options.
  • Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun: Alex Ponikarovsky is getting ready for the trade deadline day, but doesn’t really want to talk about it until it happens. So far Burke hasn’t been happy with the trade offers he’s getting for his UFAs, and might hold on to them right until the end.

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    Almost Trade Deadline Day

    Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on March 2nd, 2010

  • 3:59 PM: TheFourthPeriod: Alexei Ponikarovsky is close to be dealt. The Kings, Penguins, and Predators have shown serious interest. The Leafs are hoping for a 1st round pick, but might take a 2nd and top prospect.
  • 10:57 AM: Brad Ziemer of the Vancouver Sun: Finding some 3rd line scoring is on the wish list of Canucks coach, Alain Vigneault. If GM Mike Gillis agrees, he may look at Steve Reinprecht, who he considered bringing in last season. Other options could be Eric Belanger, Doug Weight, or Jeff Halpern. If they are worried about Willie Mitchell’s health, they might look at Aaron Ward or Andy Sutton. 2006 1st round pick, Michael Grabner, might be bait to bring in some help.
  • 10:52 AM: Chris Vivlamore of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution: Don Waddell tells Chris he’ll be a buyer more than a seller. He’d like to add a forward with size, and some scoring to make up for Kovalchuk’s departure. He’s talked to 15 teams, but there isn’t a lot of options available. A few teams have called about Slava Kozlov.
  • 10:46 AM: Chuck Gormley of the Courier-Post: The Flyers may also be talking to the Predators about goalie Dan Ellis. This would make a lot of sense for the Flyers as Ray Emery is on LTIR and Michael Leighton is their starting goalie. It would make sense for them even if Emery wasn’t on LTIR.
  • 10:43 AM: TheFouthPeriod: The Kings may have moved on from Ray Whitney and may target, Slava Kozlov, Alexei Ponikarovsky, Raffi Torres or Paul Kariya.
  • 10:39 AM: Chris Botta at NYI Point Blank: The Isles have had a couple offers, 2nd round picks for Andy Sutton but they may hold out for a 2nd rounder plus an additional pick.
  • 10:36 AM: Frank Seravalli of the Philadephia Daily News: Sources are saying the Flyers will send Ryan Parent and Braydon Coburn to the Preds for Hamhuis. May happen when Cote and Syvret clear waivers at noon today.
  • 10:31 AM: Tim Panaccio of CSNPhilly: The Flyers and Predators have talked about Dan Hamhuis. The Preds have asked about several players, including Ryan Parent, who they sent to Philly in the Forsberg deal in 2007.
  • 10:25 AM: Sam Carchiki of the Philadelphia Inquirer: The Flyers freed up $2 million in cap room by placing Ray Emery on LTIR and waiving Riley Cote, bringing their total cap room up to $2.8 million. They have shown interest in Alex Frolov, Raffi Torres, and Colby Armstrong. Dan Hamhuis could be their main target.
  • 10:23 AM: Kevin Mio of Habs Inside/Out: The Canadiens and Tomas Plekanec’s agent held talks during the Olympic break, and will continue to talk after the trade deadline day.
  • 10:19 AM: Chris McCosky of the Detroit News: Red Wings GM Ken Holland doesn’t expect to make any moves at the deadline, but if he does do something, it will have to be dollar-for-dollar as they are against the cap. “Our trade deadline was Franzen, Lilja and Kronwall,” he said, referring to the healthy return of Johan Franzen, Andreas Lilja and Niklas Kronwall. “Not too many teams are going to do any better than that.”
  • Steve Gorten of the Sun-Sentinel: After trading Jordan Leopold yesterday, and Dominic Moore before the Olympics, the Panthers may still not be finished dealing. Tomas Vokoun, Dennis Seidenberg, Rostislav Olesz, Cory Stillman, and Steven Reinprect, could be some of the few that are moved.
  • Robert Tychkowski of the Edmonton Sun: The Oilers acquired a 2nd round pick for Denis Grebeshkov yesterday, and they will still make several other moves. From GM Steve Tambellini, “I wouldn’t say everyone is on the block, but given where we are I’d be crazy not to listen to everything,” he said. “That doesn’t mean we’re going to do it, but I’ll listen to everything.”
  • Michael Russo and Chip Scoggins of the Star Tribune: The Minnesota Wild and Marek Zidlicky have contract that is all but complete. It is a 3 year deal for the 33 year old, but the sticking point is the full no-trade clause that Zidlicky wants. The Wild only want to include a no-trade clause for part of the contract. If they can’t agree on the contract, they’ll most likely trade Zidlicky. They are also getting some calls about Owen Nolan, and it’s also rumored that they might be willing to trade Eric Belanger.
  • Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Marek Svatos is waiting to be traded, his bags are already packed, now he’s just waiting for the Avalanche to trade him. Svatos was in the lineup last night playing on the 2nd line, with scouts from at least 2 teams in attendance, the Blackhawks and Sharks.
  • Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Ladislav Smid’s name was creeping into a few trade rumors, but that will probably be the end of them as he has bulging disc in his neck. In the next few days he’ll visit a neurologist to decide if he’ll just need a short rest, or if it will be a season ending injury, that might require surgery.

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    Trade talk is picking up as Olympic Freeze is Over

    Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on March 1st, 2010

  • 11:05 AM: John Glennon of the Tennessean: The Predators coud use some scoring depth, and/or someone that can kill penalties. They’ll most likely look to add a rental player, instead of one with a longer contract. Dan Hamhuis and/or Dan Ellis could be moved out. If they move Hamhuis, they’d definitely need to bring in another Dman or 2. Potential targets could be Maxim Afinogenov, Colby Armstrong, Jeff Halpren, Ethan Moreau, Alexei Ponikarovsky, Rob Niedermayer, Lee Stempniak, Raffi Torres, and Ray Whitney.
  • 10:57 AM: Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: Contract talks between the Penguins and Sergei Gonchar will be put on hold until after the season.
  • 10:53 AM: Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: The Red Wings probably won’t make a significant move, but will may look to add some depth at forward.
  • 10:47 AM: Damian Cristodero of the St. Petersburg Times: The Lightning could be after a scoring winner, a puck-moving defenseman and a gritty 3rd-4th liner. Cheaper options could be Shean Donavan or Marek Svatos. Freddie Modin, Ponikarovsky or Torres are other options. Kris Versteeg would be a dream addition.
  • 10:39 AM: Jim Gintonio of the Arizona Republic: The Coyotes are looking for another scorer, especially one that could help their 29th ranked power play.
  • 10:33 AM: Michael Russo of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune: If Marek Zidlicky isn’t signed to an extension by the trade deadline, it would be surprising if he wasn’t moved.

    • 9:30 AM

  • Steve Conroy of the Boston Herald: Bruins GM, Petter Chiarelli has got a couple deals going, but nothing is fore sure yet. He’s looking to get a top 9 forward that has an offensive side, and will most likely be a rental player. Ray Whitney’s price might be too high, with other possibilities, Selanne, Ponikarovsky, or Kozlov. On the Dman side of things, Dan Hamhuis and James Wisniewski could be options.
  • Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer: 10 teams have contacted the Hurricanes over the last 4 days. Ray Whitney is getting the most interest, but other names are being brought up. “I am getting inquiries on more players than I expected,” Rutherford said. “That doesn’t mean more players will be traded, but it’s more inquiries than I anticipated.” Rutherford also said he won’t trade Ray Whitney unless he gets a 1st round pick in the deal, or a player equivalent to a 1st rounder.
  • James Murphy of NESN: The Coyotes and Bruins could come together on a deal. The Bruins could end up with Peter Mueller, and the Coyotes are looking to add a veteran forward and defenseman. The Bruins might have a couple deals in place, and that they could be announced today. Whitney, Torres and Ponikarovsky are also on the Bruins radar. The Penguins are supposedly the frontrunners for Ponikarovsky.
  • Tom Reed of the Columbus Dispatch: The Philadelphia Flyers are one of the teams showing strong interested in Raffi Torres. The Blue Jackets are looking for a 2nd round pick, but the Flyers are without a 1st and 2nd round pick this year.
  • Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun: Alex Ponikarovsky is getting ready for the trade deadline day, but doesn’t really want to talk about it until it happens. So far Burke hasn’t been happy with the trade offers he’s getting for his UFAs, and might hold on to them right until the end.
  • Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: The Dallas Stars and Steve Ott are still trying to hammer out a contract extension before the trade deadline. Both sides realize that if an agreement isn’t reached, he’ll most likely be traded.
  • Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: Trade talk has picked up the last couple days. Penguins GM, Ray Shero will look for a scoring winger, a physical defenseman, but not an enforcer to fill in for the injured  Eric Godard.
  • Dan Barnes of the Edmonton Journal: Oilers and Team Slovakia defenseman, Lubomir Visnovsky, has been reprimanded by the IOC for violating anti-doping rules. Visnovsky took Advil Cold & Sinus during the qualification round, that urine sample came back positive. Before and after the semifinal round, he tested negative. He consulted Oilers trainer, Slovakian team doctor, and admitted taking it on his doping control form.

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    Maple Leaf Rumors … Bodies Moving out off the Isle? Flames done Dealing

    Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 26th, 2010

  • Mike Zeisberger of the Toronto Sun: Brian Burke expects to be busy leading up to the trade deadline. Assistant GM Dave Nonis has been handling some things while Burke is at the Olympics. The Maple Leafs hope to be both buyers and sellers, taking on salary for picks/prospects. 4 of the Leafs pending UFA’s who could find themselves playing elsewhere, Alexei Ponikarovsky, Lee Stempniak, Wayne Primeau, and Garnet Exelby. Burke stated again he won’t ask Kaberle to waive his no-trade clause, but rumors are swirling Kaberle may be willing to waive it. The Leafs have already received a trade offer for Ponikarovsky, a 2nd round pick and prospect, but decided to hold out in hope of a better offer. The Penguins head scout has been seen at the ACC over the last month. Stempniak may be getting some interest from his home town, Buffalo.
  • Chris Botta of NYI Point Blank: The Islanders continue to shop Dwayne Roloson and Andy Sutton. Flyers, Capitals, Blackhawks and others, could consider adding a goalie. Botta thinks the Isles could take back Huet, a 1st round pick, and a top prospect. There also appears to be some interest in veterans Martin Biron, Richard Park and Jon Sim, with each fetching a 3rd to 5th round pick.
  • Ian Busby of the Calgary Sun: Flames GM Darryle Sutter doesn’t expect to busy leading up to the trade deadline, as he’s made several moves beforehand, and he is happy with the team.
  • Scott Cruickshank of the Calgary Herald: The Flames are without a 1st (Olli Jokinen trade) and 2nd (Rene Bourque) round pick this year, and Cruickshank thinks the Flames could look at getting back some early round picks.

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    Rumors from the Pacific … Hawks-Panthers Talking? Interest in Kozlov

    Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 23rd, 2010

  • E.J. Hradek and Puck Prospectus of ESPN:
    • Doug Wilson and the Sharks would like to add some secondary scoring and a puck moving Dman. It would have to be a rental player, as Patrick Marleau and Evgeni Nabokov need to be re-signed. The Sharks may also look at adding a backup goalie with some experience.
    • The LA Kings are looking to add a scoring winger and will look at Ray Whitney, Freddie Modin, Alexei Ponikarovsky, Paul Kariya, and Raffi Torres. They may also look at a goaltender with experience.
    • The Phoenix Coyotes might be one team that is looking to add players that won’t be UFAs after the season. Peter Mueller has been rumored all season to be on the outs. Andrew Brunette of the Wild might be a good fit with the Yotes.
    • The Anaheim Ducks have UFA’s Scott Niedermayer, Teemu Selanne, and Saku Koivu that will draw some interest. Bob Murray has said that Niedermayer isn’t going anywhere. James Wisniewski’s name has been mentioned with the Blackhawks (for Cam Barker before he was dealt).
    • Dallas Stars need an upgrade on the blueline. They won’t be bringing in any big contracts. Marty Turco is the most likely player to be moved. Mike Ribeiro, Stephane Robidas, Fabian Brunnstrom and Steve Ott, could find themselves playing in a different city after the deadline.
  • Harry Teinowitz on ESPN Radio: I don’t know how reliable this guy is, but he mentioned on Monday of a trade rumor between the Chicago Blackhawks and Florida Panthers. The Hawks would send Cristobal Huet, Corey Crawford, and Kris Versteeg to the Panthers for Tomas Vokoun and an defenseman (maybe either Dennis Seidenberg or Jordan Leopold).
  • TheFourthPeriod: The Kings, Bruins, and Red Wings are rumored to have an interest in Slava Kozlov. UFA’s for the Atlanta Thrashers that could be moved are: Kozlov, Colby Armstrong, Jim Slater, Maxim Afinogenov, Eric Boulton, Pavel Kubina, Christoph Schubert, Mark Popovic and Johan Hedberg. Kozlov, Kubina, and Armstrong should draw the most interest.
  • Jeremy Roenick on ESPNChicago: Roenick is putting his hand in the rumor mill, saying that Jaroslav Halak wants out of Montreal, and he’d be better suited to lead Chicago to the Cup than Antti Niemi and/or Cristobal Huet. Vokoun would be a perfect fit in Chicago.

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    Pens Looking for Winger, Dman … Trade Talks Involving Hamhuis Pick Up … Ott Getting Interest

    Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on February 21st, 2010

  • Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: Penguins GM Ray Shero is looking for a goal scoring winger for Evgeni Malkin and a physical defenseman. The Pens 22 man roster is about a $1 million below the cap ceiling. Their rental options are Alexei Ponikarovsky, Raffi Tores, Lee Stempniak, and Ray Whitney.
  • James Murphy of NESN: Trade discussions involving Predators defenseman Dan Hamhuis have intensified, and he could be dealt as soon as the Olympic roster freeze is lifted. The Bruins, Penguins and Sabres are at the top of list of teams looking to acquire Hamhuis. The asking price is a scoring forward and a late 1st round, or early 2nd round draft pick. Raffi Torres and Alexander Frolov are also linked to the Bruins.
  • Mike Heika of the Dallas Stars:  Stars GM Joe Nieuwendyk will meet with Steve Ott to see if they can get him re-signed. If not, they might look at dealing him. They’ve already received offers for him. Nieuwendyk is also looking for a top 4 defenseman, but knows it’s costly to acquire those.

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