Posts Tagged Andrei Kostitsyn
Morrow available? List of players who “could actually impact the playoff races” … Parise not getting traded … Blake drawing interest … 3 “serious” buyers for Coyotes
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on January 27th, 2012
- Bob McKenzie of TSN: There is some talk around the league that Stars forward Brenden Morrow “may” become available before the trade deadline. The Stars are in 10th spot, but only 3 points out and have played less games. Morrow has a no-trade clause and one more year left with a $4.1 cap hit. The Stars won’t aggressively shop him, but contenders could target him. If the Stars could get a nice young package for him, and if he’d agree to it, they would have to consider it. A Stars source said they’re “probably not” going to trade him. One team executive heard:
“Morrow might be available” and “we certainly intend to find out if he is.”
- Jeff Gordon of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: Gordon lists some players that “could actually impact the playoff races”: Mikhail Grabovski, Nikolai Kulemin, Antoine Vermette, Andrei Kostitsyn, Martin Havlat, Mason Raymond, Evgeni Nabokov, Luke Schenn, Tim Gleason, Antero Niittymaki, Hal Gill, and Marek Zidlicky.
- Roger Hensley of the St. Louis Post Dispatch: If the Blues need to add a proven scorer is a tough question to answer. Will they be fine when Alex Steen and Andy McDonald return from injury? There may not be a lot of legit scores that are available, and what would be the cost to get one? If Steen and McDonald return, Hensley doesn’t think they need to bring in scoring help, but if they don’t, they may need to explore some other options.
- Rich Chere of the Star-Ledger: Devils goalie Martin Brodeur has said he’s having fun this year and is leaning towards coming next year. Chere notes that Zach Parise won’t be dealt at the trade deadline, but the odds of him re-signing with them are 50-50.
- Jason Botchford in the National Post: Canucks forward Mason Raymond has battled his way back from a broken back this year, but he hasn’t been producing and could find his days in Vancouver numbered. He’s well liked, a good penalty killer, has good wheels, but has only scored 33 goals in his last 171 games.
- Chris Botta via twitter: Ducks Jason Blake is getting some trade interest. Botta notes that the Ducks got better when he returned from injury.
- Tim Sassone via twitter: If Ducks Jason Blake is available, Sassone thinks he’d look good as the Blackhawks 2nd line center. He wonders if Bob Murray would trade with Stan Bowman. (I don’t think Blake has played center at any point in his NHL career)
- John Wawrow (AP) in the Globe and Mail: Gary Bettman says there are 3 groups that are showing “serious” interest in the buying the Coyotes that would keep the team there. One of the groups is led by former Sharks president and CEO Greg Jamison and the other is Jerry Reinsdorf.
“We’re going to try to avoid a move of the Coyotes, but if we don’t sell the club, I’m not sure that this won’t be the last season here,” he said.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Senators captain on Daniel Alfredsson on playing next year:
“The way this season is going, if I’m still healthy after this season, I’m hoping I can go one more,” said Alfredsson. “This year has been so good. If we can make the playoffs, that would almost be a dream come true.”
- David Pollak via twitter: The Sharks have traded defenseman Sean Sullivan to the Panthers for Tim Kennedy.
State of the Chicago Blackhawks: NHL Trade Deadline Edition
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on January 25th, 2012
Today is the 1st installment of our expanded NHL Trade Deadline coverage. We’ll be posting team outlooks leading up to trade deadline over the next couple weeks from a variety of contributing writers.
Written by Tab Bamford of TheFourthPeriod.com and can be found on twitter at @The1Tab
The Chicago Blackhawks are in the mix for the best record in the Western Conference, but are equally close to fourth place in the Central Division. With a good, young core locked up and over $5 million in cap space, the Blackhawks will be buyers at the deadline.
What will be the Blackhawks wants/needs?
1. Top-four defenseman
The Hawks have one of the best top pairs in the league with Duncan Keith and Brent Seabrook, but have been searching for the right formula all season in the wake of Brian Campbell being traded to Florida during the draft.
Nick Leddy’s developing nicely, but has been better when held under 20 minutes per game over the last month. Meanwhile, Niklas Hjalmarsson appears to have peaked as a number 4-5 defenseman who excels at blocking shots and killing penalties, but has not taken the next step in his development yet.
Some players the Hawks might target include Tim Gleason in Carolina, Hal Gill and/or Chris Campoli in Montreal, and, if Brian Burke puts him on the market, Cody Franson.
Sunday morning rumors and injuries: the Lightning, Canadiens, Weber, van Riemsdyk, Koivu, Skinner, DiPietro and NHL Sources Say Video
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Videos on January 15th, 2012
- Erik Erlendsson of the Tampa Tribune: Lightning goalies Dwayne Roloson and Mathieu Garon have a combined GAA of 3.37. Some want the Lightning to trade for Evgeni Nabokov or Antero Niittymaki, or any other goalie who’ll be a UFA at the end of the year. Minor league goalie Dustin Tokarski is playing well in the AHL, but he’s not the answer right now. Trading for guys like Cory Schneider or Jonathan Bernier usually don’t happen during the season, and would cost a significant player/prospect and a high draft pick. In the offseason they could also look at free agent goalies like Brian Elliott and Josh Harding.
- Toronto Sun: The Canadiens may not be done dealing. Defenseman Hal Gill has seen his ice time decrease as of late and may interest a cup contender who is looking for a big stay at home Dman. Forwards Travis Moen and Andrei Kostitsyn will be UFAs at the end of the season. Defenseman Yannick Weber may get some interest someone who is looking to boost their PP.
- Randy Miller via twitter: Miller thinks it may cost the Flyers James van Riemsdyk, Sean Couturier and a top pick for Predators defenseman Shea Weber. The Preds would be aiming for that.
- Tim Panaccio of CSN Philly: Flyers forward James van Riemsdyk is out with a concussion. “James was hit in the head in each of our last two games,” Holmgren said in a statement. “He reported yesterday not feeling like himself. He will be out indefinitely with a concussion.”
- Michael Russo of the Star-Tribune: Wild center Mikko Koivu left last night’s game in the 1st period after taking a hit from Blues forward Vladimir Sobotka. Koivu appears to have a left shoulder injury. He left the arena with a sling on.
- Chip Alexander via twitter: Hurricanes forward Jeff Skinner is likely to return today against the Capitals.
- Brian Compton via twitter: Islanders Rick DiPietro is expected to miss 10 weeks after his sports hernia surgery. His knee also has swelling.
- HNIC Hotstove link: The panel talks about the Cammalleri trade and Sidney Crosby.
- NHL Sources Say: Talk on next year’s Winter Classic, All-Star game captains and fantasy draft, Blues ownership situation, the Oilers rink situation, and Zach Parise.
Changes coming for Ducks? 8 teams called about Turris … Perron update … JVR out 1-2 weeks … More Leafs injuries
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on November 26th, 2011
- Randy Youngman of the OC Register: The Ducks have lost 6 in a row, and sit 1 point out of last place with 6-12-4 record. Is it time to fire the coach? Trade one of their top players? They’re likely not going to fire Randy Carlyle. Bobby Ryan said “So we can’t blame them if they pull the trigger on something.” If GM Bob Murray were to make a major trade, it would likely involve Ryan Getzlaf or Bobby Ryan, as Corey Perry is probably untouchable.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: 8 teams have called Coyotes GM Don Maloney within a half hour after they signed Kyle Turris. Two teams were strongly considering signing him to an offer sheet.
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: Blues forward Andy McDonald’s concussion status is “status quo.” He’s not skating yet. On David Perron
“There’s no target date for his return, but he’s skating with the team in full practice situations,” Blues GM Doug Armstrong told ESPN.com on Friday. “When he feels he can go, we’ll put him in.”
Panthers GM Dale Tallon:
“We’re not going to do much. We’re going to keep to the same plan, we’re going to stick with it and see where it takes us,” Tallon told ESPN.com. “There’s a long way to go yet before we make decisions on this team [ahead of the Feb. 27 trade deadline]. But we know we got some good prospects coming so that’s exciting.”
- Sam Carchidi via twitter: James van Riemsdyk will be out a week or two with an undisclosed injury.
- Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette: Canadiens coach Jacques Martin said that there’s a possibility that Andrei Kostitsyn returns to their lineup. He’s been out 10 games with a groin injury.
- Rob Longley of the Toronto Sun: Defenseman Carl Gunnarsson and forward David Steckel left last night’s game Maple Leafs game after blocking shots.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: The Avalanche had Matt Duchene and Paul Stastny back together at practice yesterday, with Milan Hejduk on the right side. Gabriel Landeskog, Ryan O’Reilly and Daniel Winnik were reunited. TJ Galiardi centered Cody McLeod and David Jones. Defenseman Erik Johnson has a groin injury and is doubtful against the Oilers. Peter Mueller also has a groin injury and hasn’t skated for 3 days.
- Scott Cruickshank of the Calgary Herald: Blake Comeau will play on the Flames 3rd line with Roman Horak and Lee Stempniak.
Green injured again, Semin benched … Stars and Blues sale progressing … Reimer returning to ice soon … Carter questionable for tonight
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on November 12th, 2011
- Katie Carrera of the Washington Post: Capitals defenseman Mike Green only played 7 minutes and 44 seconds in his return from his ankle injury before leaving the game. Green didn’t re-injure his ankle, it was a knee-on-knee hit by Ryan Carter.
“It’s a different soreness. So at least it’s not the ankle. So that’s good news,” Boudreau said. “Yeah I’m pretty confident [it’s not serious]. I talked to him already about it. It’s a day-to-day thing, not a three-week day-to-day thing. It’s an actual day-to-day thing.”
- Katie Carrera of the Washington Post: Capitals coach Bruce Boudreau benched Alexander Semin for the final 24 minutes last night.
- Dustin Leed via twitter: Leed can confirm that the Flyers have received calls about goalie Sergei Bobrovsky. Flyers GM Paul Holmgren is not budging. No need for the Flyers to move him now.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: The Dallas Stars are hoping for a Nov. 21st press conference to introduce Tom Gaglardi as the teams new owner. They are trying to fast track the deal, moving the bankruptcy hearing up to Nov. 18th from Nov. 23rd.
- Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: Matthew Hulsizer is still going throught the process of purchasing the St. Louis Blues. Sources are saying Hulsizer would have 70% control of the team, Blue chairman Dave Checketts holds 30%.
- Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun: Maple Leafs goalie James Reimer’s agent said that Reimer hasn’t experienced headaches in several days and will be returning to the ice soon. “We are 100% confident the Leafs are handling this situation well and that includes James, his family and all involved,” Petkau told TSN. Agent Ray Petkau said that reports of multiple concussions are “exaggerated.”
- Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette: Canadiens forward Andrei Kostitsyn won’t be in the lineup tonight against the Predators. Mike Cammalleri is a game-time decision.
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: Blue Jackets forward Jeff Carter took part in full practice yesterday and is questionable for tonight.
- Michael Russo of the Star-Tribune: Wild forward Guillaume Latendresse is out indefinitely with a concussion.
- Winnipeg Jets.com: Jets goalie Chris Mason has been activated from the IR.
Reimer’s mom speaks about his injury … Nabokov and Leafs ties … Markov travels with team … Mueller could return tonight … Backlund getting close
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on November 10th, 2011
- Darren Dreger via twitter: Sidney Crosby’s status for Friday may or may not be addressed after practice today.
- Chris Botta via twitter: Botta suggests Maple Leafs coach Ron Wilson could be reunited with goalie Evgeni Nabokov but wonders if the Islanders would trade a quality goalie to a team in the Eastern Conference for a draft pick or iffy prospect.
- BD Gallof via twitter: The 2nd round pick that the Islanders may be interested in getting for Evgeni Nabokov is “likely a conversation starter or a dealmaker cost.” Gallof warns Islanders fans that Nabokov won’t yield the team an impact player, a small deal at best.
- Dave Feschuk of the Toronto Star: From James Reimer’s mother on his injury:
“He looks clear. His eyes look fine. But he says he still has that nagging headache,” Marlene said. “I think his doctor finally said, ‘Let’s take you off the ice and see if it improves.’ … I’m hoping there’ll be some good news pretty soon.”
“That’s the frustrating part for us — not knowing what it is, and why they’re not calling it a concussion when they say ‘concussion-like symptoms,’” Marlene Reimer said. “Like, how is that not a concussion? … The initial test showed him to be clear of a concussion. But as it goes on, it’s kind of mystifying. He’s okay some days. And some days he’s definitely not okay.”
Reimer’s mother added that he’s had “several” concussions and he suffered whiplash last season with the Marlies. His first concussion came when he was 16 years old.
- Jesse Spector of the Sporting News: If the Blue Jackets decide to replace coach Scott Arniel, former Kings and Blues coach Andy Murray likely won’t be interested in the position as he’s happy coaching at Western Michigan. “There were NHL opportunities before, but I said no because I want to be here at Western Michigan,” Murray told Sporting News. “The Columbus one is new to me. I can’t talk to that situation, I haven’t talked to anybody from Columbus.” Former Senators coach Cory Clouston is a possible candidate for the position.
- Dave Stubbs of the Montreal Gazette: Canadiens defenseman Andrei Markov accompanied the team on their flight to Arizona, and could begin practicing with the team. Andrei Kostitsyn and Scott Gomez are day-to-day, and could be ready to return to the lineup before the end of the week.
- Mike Chambers of the Denver Post: Avalanche forward Peter Mueller could return tonight. He’s been out 12 games with post-concussion symptoms. He practiced on a line with Matt Duchene yesterday and will be re-evaluated this morning. JS Giguere will get the start in net. Lines at yesterday’s practice: Mueller-Duchene-Jones, Landeskog-O’Reilly-Kobasew (no Winnik), Lindstrom-Stastny-Hejduk, McLeod-Galiardi/McClement-Porter.
- Chris Kuc of the Chicago Tribune: Blackhawks defenseman Steve Montador was inserted on the 2nd power play unit. They are currently 5 for 57 on the man advantage. Center Dave Bolland is questionable for tonight’s game after taking a puck off the foot in their last game.
- Randy Sportak of the Calgary Sun: Flames center Mikael Backlund could return as early as Friday against the Blackhawks.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Blues forward Andy McDonald is coming along slowly from his concussion.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: The Blues may be offering recently fired coach Davis Payne an chance to remain in the organization and do some pro scouting.
Crosby feels he’s close … Habs and Lightning looking for Dman … Jets could show interest in Bourque … Reimer and Backes injured … Duchene on 4th line
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on October 23rd, 2011
- Shelly Anderson of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: Penguins captain Sidney Crosby considers himself close to returning, but that doesn’t mean he’ll play in the next couple games.
“I need to get in some contact, more than just one bump in a morning skate,” Crosby said. “It’s got to be a few days of that. Whenever we can get some of those days together — and, hopefully, I’ll respond well to that — then I’ll be much closer than I am right now.”
- Josh Yohe of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: Evgeni Malkin missed his 5th straight game last night. He’s skated the past 2 days without any pain, and the Penguins believe he’ll be back soon. He’s been having issues with lingering scar tissue in his right knee. Defenseman Zbynek Michalek left in the 3rd period of last night’s game and they are unsure of the severity.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: The Canadiens have no idea when Andrei Markov will return. Unhappy with the with the way they’ve been playing, GM Pierre Gauthier may be willing to trade Andrei Kostitsyn to bring in some help. Kostitsyn will be a free agent after the season and is making $3.25 million. Kostitsyn is inconsistent but it might bring the team a veteran defenseman. Lightning GM Steve Yzerman is also looking to add a defenseman. The Blue Jackets were rumored to have offered Steve Mason and Jakub Voracek to the Flyers for Mike Richards before the Jeff Carter deal was made. Flyers winger Scott Hartnell will have a cap hit of $4.2 million for the next 2 years and finds himself on the 3rd line. Coyotes aren’t shopping RFA holdout Kyle Turris but they are getting calls. Don’t be surprised if the Jets show interest in Flames Rene Bourque as they need help up front. The Canucks aren’t trying to trade defenseman Keith Ballard.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: Lots of talk around the league. The Canucks may not be done.
- Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun: Maple Leafs goalie James Reimer left last night’s game after the 1st period. He was hit in the head by Brian Gionta and suffered “whiplash-type symptoms” according to coach Ron Wilson. “This early in the season, we didn’t want to risk it,” Wilson said of keeping Reimer in the room the rest of the night. “It was clearly an elbow to the head. I don’t know if you’d call it a head shot, but when you knock the goalie’s mask off …”
- Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post Dispatch: Blues forward David Backes collided with Flyers defenseman Chris Pronger in the 2nd period. They hit shoulder to shoulder, with Backes appearing to bang his head off the ice.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Oilers coach Tom Renny talked to Ryan Nugent-Hopkins about the comments on made on Friday about sitting RNH down. Renny didn’t tell him if he’ll remain with the team for the season. Matheson via twitter: Nugent-Hopkins swears he hasn’t been told if he’ll play past 9 games this year. Taylor Hall was told after 4 games last year that he’d be staying.
- Bill Beacon of CP in the Globe and Mail: Canadiens forward Scott Gomez will be out out at least a week with an upper-body injury.
- Ken Warren of the Ottawa Citizen: Senators Matt Carkner and Bobby Butler practiced with the team but both are a “still a distance away” from getting back in the lineup. Peter Regin re-injured his shoulder on Thursday and they are awaiting a prognosis from the doctors.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: After only registering 1 goal and 3 assists in 7 games, Avalanche center Matt Duchene found himself centering the 4th line of Jay McClement and Cody McLeod last night. He only played 11:35 minutes.
Predators talking to Rinne and Suter … Maple Leafs working phones … Wings-Kronwall talking … Kadri out 3-4 weeks … Another headshot
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Videos on September 29th, 2011
- PIerre LeBrun of ESPN: A Western Conference team was interested in defenseman Bryan McCabe but he wasn’t interested. The Rangers are looking for a defenseman, but not McCabe. Predators GM David Poile met with the agents for both Pekka Rinne and Ryan Suter last week about a contract extension. They are aggressively trying to sign both. Weber can’t do an extension until January 1st. There haven’t been any talks between Drew Doughty and the Kings. LeBrun thinks the Kings will reach out to Newport Sports soon. The Leafs have been working the phones, Carl Gunnarsson and Tyler Bozak have been discussed but nothing is close as of last night. Talks between Niklas Kronwall the Red Wings are underway regarding a contract extension. Dreger is reporting that Kronwall is looking for a long-term, front loaded deal similar to Christian Ehrhoff’s. On front-loaded deals the Sabres have been handing out: “I’m sorry, but that’s killing this industry,” one NHL GM, requesting anonymity, told ESPN.com. “We have to stop those front-loaded contracts in the next system.”
- Steve MacFarlane of the Calgary Herald: Flames captain Jarome Iginla missed practice again but GM Jay Feaster “anticipate he’ll be on the ice by the end of the week.”
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Maple Leafs forward Nazem Kadri will be out 3-4 weeks with a knee injury.
- Jeff Marek via twitter: Jason Arnott is expected to miss 7 days following eye surgery.
- Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette: The Canadiens have been working on their power play, trying to find someone to replace Andrei Markov. “In the absence of Markov, we’re trying to find someone to quarterback our power play on the first unit (and) we’re experimenting with a forward in that position.” Tomas Plekanec and P.K. Subban were on the first unit yesterday. Andrei Kostitsyn and Yannick Weber (switching with Raphael Diaz) were on the second unit.
- Greg Wyshynski of Yahoo! Sports: Christopher Moorhouse was taken into custody by the London Police as the suspect in throwing a banana at Wayne Simmonds during an exhibition game. London’s Police Chief said that Moorhouse “has been charged with engaging in a prohibited activity on a premises under the trespass to property act.” It’s a provincial statute that could result in a fine of “not more than $2,000.”
- Adam Jahns of the Chicago Sun-Times: Blackhawks forward Ben Smith took a shoulder to the head from Red Wings defenseman Brendan Smith. Ben Smith will undergo more concussion tests today. Viktor Stalberg left the game with a leg injury and Quenneville added it’s “probably not good, either.”
Shero on Crosby … Flyers goalie and team captaincy situation … Hunter, Kostitsyn, Zyuzin and Frolov notes
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on August 15th, 2011
- Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune: From Rossi’s conversation with Penguins GM Ray Shero:
– On reoccurrence of concussion symptoms during Crosby’s offseason training:
“I’ve been in touch with Sid’s doctors… (and) Sid this weekend. He’s progressed well this summer. Had some symptoms at different points, depending on how hard he’s pushed himself at different points. Never had to be shut down this summer.”
– On reports that Crosby will not be ready for start of 2011-12 season:
“There’s never been a situation where he’s needed to be cleared to play.”
– On Crosby’s state of mind these days:
“I think he’s been good. Talking to him this weekend it seemed that way. Beside dealing with this injury he’s our captain, so whenever we’ve signed a player I’ve been in touch with him. That’s been a lot of it in term s of contact with Sid. I haven’t gone to him too much, ‘How you feeling?’”
“It’s been on an off at this point. He’s happy with his progress. We’re happy with his progress. Training camp is a month away. He’ll be evaluated before then.”
– On if anything has changed regarding Crosby’s recovery/status/whatnot:
“No,” Shero said.
“There are going to be some symptoms with this injury, but nothing where he’s had to shut it down or anything. The main thing with him, or any player, is that he’s not going to be pushed, prodded until he’s 100 percent ready. My concern isn’t with Sept. 16, Oct. 6 or whenever; it’s making sure he’s comfortable when he returns to play, end of story. I’m about the bigger picture with this thing.”
- Chuck Gormley of the Courier Post: On where Flyers goalie Michael Leighton will play next year:
“It’s August,” Flyers general manager Paul Holmgren said. “I don’t have to answer that. Training camp is a process you go through, and we’re going to do what’s right for the organization.”
It’s rumored that Holmgren checked out Sergei Bobrovsky’s trade value before the draft, which could be high. The Capitals got a 1st and 2nd round pick for Semyon Varlamov.
Leighton added:
“If there’s a trade somewhere or there’s going to be two veteran guys (Leighton and Bacashihua) in the minors, I don’t know. I just want to come to camp, work hard, and wherever it gets me I’ll accept it.
“I don’t think it’s worth asking for (a trade). I’m sure (Holmgren) has an idea, but he’s not going to tell me where I’ll be. I just need to get healthy and hope it works out that I get to stay here, play another year and go from there.”
- Frank Seravalli of hte Philadelphia Daily News: Flyers coach Peter Laviolette on team captaincy:
“At this point we’re not in any rush to name the captain,” he said. “Once training camp starts and we get everybody back in here (there’s not a lot of accessibility of the players during the summer). Once everybody gets back in here myself and Paul Holmgren will start having discussions and talk about the options that we have in front of us. Then we start talking to the players. I think we’ll get to that point where we do name a captain, but at this point it’s not on the radar in immediate, near future.”
- Edmonton Journal: Oilers goalie Nikolai Khabibulin finished serving his 15 days in Arizona’s tent city jail for drunk driving. He still has 15 days to serve under house arrest with a electronic monitoring bracelet.
- Eric Stephens via twitter: The agent of Trent Hunter said “a number of teams showing interest” but he’s still undecided on where he’ll play this year. Todd Cordell via twitter: Cordell wouldn’t be surprised if Hunter signed with the Ducks who may be looking for 3rd/4th line depth.
- Marc Antonine Godin via twitter: Godin thinks that Andrei Kostitsyn could end up in Anaheim who need depth and have the cap space.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Andrei Zyuzin’s agent has told the SovSport that they have received 2 offers from NHL teams, he wouldn’t name them.
- Genadi Boguslavski via twitter: Alexander Frolov isn’t contemplating NHL options, determined to return to Russia. Boguslavski thinks Frolov didn’t even try to get an NHL deal.
Reimer, S. Kostitsyn, C. Adams and Nikitin all re-sign
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News on June 9th, 2011
- Damien Cox of the Toronto Star: James Reimer has re-signed with the Toronto Maple Leafs. The 23 year old signed a 3 year deal worth $5.4 million, a $1.8 million salary cap hit. “He earned the opportunity to play at the NHL level this past season and he made the most of it with his outstanding play,” Maple Leafs general manager Brian Burke said in a statement. “He really grabbed the net and never looked back. We are confident that his talent and strong work habits will be contributing factors to our team’s success next season.”
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Andrei Kostitsyn re-signs with the Canadiens for 1 year at $3.25 million.
- James Mirtle via twitter: Craig Adams re-signs with the Penguins for 2 years and $1.35 million.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Nikita Nikitin signs a 1 year deal with Blues for $600,000.
Crosby confirms setback … Markov wants 3 years … Canadiens off-season notes … Knuble and Wideman update
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on April 29th, 2011
- Will DePaoli via twitter: Penguins center Sidney Crosby confirms that he suffered a setback last week, and that he suffered a concussion at the Winter Classic. Crosby also believes that the Victor Hedman hit gave him his 2nd concussion in 5 days.
- Tony Marinaro via twitter: Back in March, the Canadiens offered Andrei Markov a 1 year deal for $5.75 million. Markov is looking for a 3 year deal, Canadiens offering 1.
- Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette: Canadiens assistant coach Kirk Muller will become the head coach of the Dallas Stars, but it’s on hold as the team awaits new owners. GM Pierre Gautier will make UFA Andrei Markov and RFA Josh Gorges priorities. Hal Gill is also a UFA and will likely be back along side PK Subban. Scott Gomez carries a $7.37 million cap hit next year and they have the option of biting the bullet and sending him to the AHL. RFA Max Pacioretty is healthy and is in line for a multi-year contract. Andrei Kostitsyn and Benoit Pouliot are RFA’s and likely won’t be priorities. Due to salary cap constraints they likely won’t be a major player in the free agent market.
- Katie Carrera of the Washington Post: Capitals Mike Knuble and Dennis Wideman remain optimistic that they’ll be able to return to the lineup at some point during this series.
“I think that’s very realistic,” said Knuble, who started to take hard shots in practice. “When that’s going to be I don’t know. There are a lot of factors. And so it kind of depends on how everything is going. If they keep winning, you don’t want to upset the boat. But at the same time I’m anxious to get back in. I’ll get back in as soon as I can. It’s tough to watch, but at the same time it’s fun to watch.”
“The range of motion is getting better, the skating is getting better, just gotta get in shape. Get a little more power in the leg and hopefully make a comeback shortly,” Wideman said. “We did a little skate there at the end. I mean, I’m still not 100 percent but it’s definitely a whole lot closer than it was a couple days ago.”
- Katie Carrera via twitter: Wideman and Knuble did skate today but not on with the regulars. Tom Poti not on the ice for 2nd straight day
- Ian Mendes via twitter: Jeff Carter wasn’t on the ice for the Flyers morning practice.
Torres not suspended … Boucher in, Leighton backup? Update on Pronger, Bolland, Leopold, Seguin, Chara, Zetterberg and Jovanovski
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News on April 18th, 2011
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Dreger reporting there will be no supplementary discipline for Raffi Torres hit on Seabrook.
- Tracey Myers via twitter: Quenneville said that Seabrook is “likely” to play tomorrow and is “optomistic” that Bolland and Bickell will play as well. Adam Jahns via twitter: Bolland said yesterday that he believes he’s ready for Game 4.
- Ian Mendes via twitter: Bruins coach Claude Julien said it’s “looking good” that Zdeno Chara will go tonight, a game-time decision.
- Anthony San Filippo via twitter: Sabres defenseman Jordan Leopold will be in the lineup tonight.
- Kevin McGran via twitter: Bruins forward Tyler Seguin will likely be healthy scratch again.
- Ian Mendes via twitter: Andrei Kostitsyn practiced on a line with Mike Cammelleri and Tomas Plekanec.
- Sam Carchidi via twitter: Carchidi wouldn’t be surprised if Michael Leighton backs up Brian Boucher tonight.
- Sam Carchidi via twitter: NBC Sports reported that the setback Chris Pronger suffered a couple weeks ago was a 2nd break in his hand.
- Sam Carchidi via twitter: Pronger skated today and took some wrist shots. Carchidi thinks that if they lose tonight, he’ll play on Wednesday. If they win, he won’t play Wednesday. Frank Seravalli via twitter: Pronger skated with teammates for the first time since March.
- Anthony San Filippo via twitter: Flyers winger Nikolai Zherdev will be in the lineup for Andreas Nodl.
- Andy Stickland via twitter: Blues prospect Vlad Tarasenko will either play in the NHL or the KHL next season. He won’t come over to play in the AHL.
- Ted Kulfan of the Detroit News: Red Wings Henrik Zetterberg practiced yesterday but won’t be in the lineup for Game 3. He didn’t take part in any physical drills.
- Jim Gintonio of the Arizona Republic: Coyotes defenseman Ed Jovanovski will be in the lineup tonight, he left in the 2nd period of Saturday’s game.
Phillips re-signs with Sens … Richards likely staying … Likely no extension/trade for MacArthur … NHL Sources Say Video
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 27th, 2011
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: The Ottawa Senators and Chris Phillips have agreed to a 3 year contract worth approximately $9 million.
- Damian Cox via twitter: Brad Richards is likely staying in Dallas. Clarke MacArthur is unlikely to re-sign with the Leafs by the deadline, but also unlikely to be traded.
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: Brad Richards skates on consecutive days, Kings and Rangers most interested.
- Tim Sassone via twitter: Blackhawks looking for a center, they have scouted O’Reilly and McClement of the Avalanche.
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: Blue Jackets are interested in John-Michael Liles, and sources say he’d waive his no trade clause for Blue Jackets. Elliotte Friedman via twitter, responding to Portzline saying Liles has a list of 12 teams that he’d waive his no trade clause for, and Friedman doesn’t think that Columbus is on that list. If there is a potential deal, they can always ask.
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: James Reimer left in the 2nd period for precautionary reasons with neck stiffness and a slight headache, will be reevaluated tomorrow.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: A predators sources said “No” to Andrei Kostitsyn to Nashville rumors.
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: Minor trade. McGrattan and Zimmerman to Anaheim for Bruins Chaput and Laliberte.
- Adrian Dater via twitter: Scouts at Avalanche game: Bruins, Dallas and Detroit, no Toronto.
- NHL Sources Say: “The Hockeycentral Panel discusses Chris Phillips, Brad Richards, Dustin Penner, Ales Hemsky, Stephen Weiss and John-Michael Liles.”
Audio and Video rumor reports … Richards won’t return before Deadline Day … Atlanta Division problems and fixes
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Audio, NHL Rumors, NHL Videos on February 24th, 2011
- Darren Dreger Audio on Team 990 : (Feb. 24th) Dreger talks Brad Richards, Peter Stastny’s comments, Ottawa Senators, Nik Zherdev, Craig Rivet, Marek Svatos, Ales Hemsky asking price, Andrei Kostitsyn, and John-Michael Liles
- Darren Dreger of TSN: The Leafs are looking for a Dman, but won’t overpay for it. Sens GM Bryan Murray has talked to Chris Phillips’ agent about possible contract extensions, though he could still waive his no-trade clause and be moved out. The Canadiens could have an interest in Bryan McCabe. The Canucks may need to add a 3rd/4th line center. Though there’s interest in Smid, Penner, and Hemsky, nothing is imminent. The Flames may look to add a forward.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: Brad Richards hasn’t skated since Feb. 13th and is suffering concussion-like symptoms. GM Nieuwendyk does not expect Richards to play a game before Monday’s trade deadline, and that he’s not shopping him around. “It’s the same answer it has been. Our first priority is to re-sign Brad Richards to a long-term contract. That is what we would like to do,” Nieuwendyk said. “However, we have to be open to any possibility and we have to be open to situation that could improve our team.”
- Jesse Spector of the NY Daily News: The Daily News has learned that the Brad Richards is likely staying in Dallas as the team is said to be buyers and not sellers. If the Stars decide to move him, and he waives his no-trade, the Rangers may not be willing to part with the young players the Stars want in return. The Rangers are more likely to look for low cost veteran rental.
- Tim Seppa (hockey prospectus) on ESPN: Seppa looks at “Problems” and “Fixes” for the Atlantic Division. Philadelphia Flyers: Problem is goaltending, with Tomas Vokoun as a possible fix. Pittsburgh Penguins: Problem with Penguins is the 2nd line center spot and PP due to injuries. Tim Connolly could be an option. New York Rangers: Need 1 or 2 top 6 forwards. Leafs Clarke MacArthur could be an option if they don’t plan on re-signing him. New Jersey Devils: Problem is the lack of a puck moving defenseman. John-Michael Liles could be an option, Lou may need to trade away David Clarkson to clear cap space. New York Islanders: They need to keep stockpiling prospects/picks. Milan Jurcina could be moved out, possibly to Anaheim for Luca Sbisa.
- NHL Sources Say video from Tuesday: “The Hockeycentral panel take a look at a current Oiler and a former Leaf who could be traded before Monday’s deadline.”
Blues likely to be sellers … Only 2 viable players worth Leafs 1st rounder … Brodeur has MCL sprain … Flames looking for Top 6 and D depth
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL Rumors on February 14th, 2011
- Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post Dispatch: The Blues will need to go on a nice run if they hope to get back into the playoff race. It’s looking more and more likely they will be sellers and not buyers, “We’re not in a position where we can give assets away for a short-term fix,” Armstrong said. Eric Brewer, Ty Conklin, Brad Winchester and Cam Janssen will be UFA’s at the end of the season.
- Kevin Paul Dupont of the Boston Globe: If the Bruins were to trade the Maple Leafs 1st round pick, Brad Richards and Zach Bogosian are the only 2 viable players possibly available right now that would be worth it. It would be a surprise if Mark Stuart is still with the Bruins after the deadline. Tomas Kaberle could fit in well with the Bruins, especially on the power play were Mark Recchi has found himself recently.
- Ben Kuzma of the Vancouver Province: Kevin Bieksa has been subject to lots of rumors this season, but his play this year may have the Canucks thinking of re-signing him. “His high-percentage plays, work ethic and attitude have been team-oriented and he’s been a great model for the younger guys,” said Canucks coach Alain Vigneault. “When he was telling people he wasn’t paying attention to what was going on [trade rumours], I think he really meant it. That’s why he could focus.”
- Chris Vivlamore of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution: Thrashers rookie Alexander Burmistrov is out for an unknown period of time with a cracked bone in his foot which he got on Friday after taking a shot from Zach Bogosian.
- Chris Vivlamore via twitter: Scouts at the Thrasher-Hurricanes game yesterday were 2 from the Flames, and 1 from the Islanders and Red Wings.
- Rich Chere via twitter: Martin Brodeur has confirmed he has a MCL sprain. “I think if I wasn’t a goalie it’d be different to get back.” Tom Gulitti via twitter: There is no timetable set for his return. He had a MCL sprain in 2005-06 and missed 6 games.
- David Shoalts of the Globe and Mail: Flames GM Jay Feaster said he’d like to add some a top 6 forward and some defensive depth. Oilers GM Steve Tambellini won’t discuss players but Dustin Penner and Ales Hemsky are rumored to be on move if the price is right. Brian Burke said he doesn’t have any plans to trade Kris Versteeg, but sources say his mind could be changed with the right offer. Kaberle has yet to waive his no-trade clause. Andrei Kostitsyn could be the only roster player the Montreal Canadiens would trade. They are looking for a veteran blueliner and some size upfront. Mikael Samuelsson and Mason Raymond’s play has improved of late so they may stand pat on that front, though if they start struggling again they may look to add a 2nd line winger. 3rd liners Raffi Torres and Manny Malhotra are in big slumps.
NHL trade rumors involving the Los Angeles Kings
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on January 12th, 2011
So yesterday Dennis Bernstein of The Fourth Period, went on a twitter tear, answering Los Angeles Kings trade questions all day and night. Some of the questions may have come from trade rumors, others were of the speculating type. Since I couldn’t convince Dennis to write up a nice summary for us to read, I’ve decided to attempt to breakdown his twitter account. Now I normally give you links to each ‘tweet’, but that would take up more time, so if you want direct links, you can get them from his account here (and is a good ‘follow’). I’ll also adjust the order posted and will try to lump specific player questions/mentions together, and combine the question and answer hopefully into one sentence. The Kings are looking for scoring help and a top 4 defenseman, so let’s begin …..
- If the Kings fall out of contention in February, look for them to move from buyers to sellers. They have a 10 game road trip that may determine their course of action.
- See’s a trade first before they make a change behind the bench.
- The Kings have plenty of of 20 goal guys, need a 35+ guy.
- Doesn’t see the Kings looking to deal goalie Jonathan Bernier. He wouldn’t bring back the forward the Kings need.
- The Kings could use a 2nd line center, but trading for a long term guy would create a log jam for Brayden Schenn next year, Stoll would replace Handzus as 3rd line center.
- See’s Wayne Simmonds as a solid 3rd line for years to come.
- Thomas Hickey doesn’t have much trade value, has a shoulder injury, could be wasted 4th overall pick.
- Kings looking at Francois Beauchemin and Robyn Regehr on defense, Ales Hemsky and Dustin Penner on the wing.
Ottawa Senators
- Jimmy Murphy reported that Kings GM Lombardi was scouting the Senators-Bruins game.
- Here goes the Mike Fisher chatter.
- Fisher could be a target. Jason Spezza is still out for another month so he may be too late, need immediate boost.
- Fisher would fit as a #2 center but is not putting up good numbers and has a $4 million cap hit.
- Milan Michalek is a $4.3 million cap hit with 8 goals in 43 games, so not a likely target.
Calgary Flames
- Robyn Regehr may be the best defenseman option.
- Kicking tires on Alex Tanguay.
- If the Kings were to go after Regehr and Niklas Hagman, the Flames would want a Dman prospect included, Teubert or Voynov. It would take a big deal to get both.
- Simmonds would likely be in a deal for Regehr. Tanguay will be a UFA at end of year, has no-trade clause, so there wouldn’t be a high price.
- Jarome Iginla for Brayden Schenn doesn’t make sense. 2 years at $7 million each, with Drew Doughty contract still to do, not Lombardi’s style.
- The Kings would have less than zero interest in Olli Jokinen.
Edmonton Oilers
- Simmonds has been dangled by the Kings for Ales Hemsky or Dustin Penner.
- They are looking at Hemsky or Penner, but their February road trip could determine if they want to pay the price.
- Shawn Horcoff not a great fit. He doesn’t put the puck in the net enough.
Toronto Maple Leafs
- There was talk of a Kris Versteeg, Francois Beauchemin and high prospect for Brayden Schenn. Brian Burke really wants Schenn, but Lombardi won’t move him.
- A Versteeg for Simmonds deal is not an upgrade.
Buffalo Sabres and Florida Panthers
- Since Jason Pominville has a cap hit of $5.3 million, has a NMC and has only 8 goals, so likely not a target of the Kings.
- David Booth and Tomas Vanek are possible but not likely.
- Booth has a long term deal with a limited no-trade clause.
One offs
- Andrei Kostitsyn likely not an option, Canadiens need goals too, so if he’s that good offensively, he’d stay. If they would move him, would want more than Simmonds.
- If Capitals decided to move Semin, they’d want full rental value, a lot more than Jarret Stoll. Ovechkin won’t allow the Capitals to trade him anyways.
- Niclas Bergfors is a right winger and has been a healthy scratch in December, so likely not interested.
- Kings never targeted Patrick Elias, 2 years left at $6 million.
- Martin Havlat’s salary doesn’t make sense.
- Tomas Kopecky to the Kings is as likely as Semin to Chicago for him.
- Scouts at Monday’s game were from the Lightning, Flyers, Canadiens, Boston, and Penguins.
More on the Canadiens … Ryan and Ducks talking … Marleau to Toronto? Jacob Markstrom coming to North America?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 26th, 2010
- Sean Gordon of the Globe and Mail: The Montreal Canadiens will have $13-14 million to fill out 9 roster spots. That is not a lot play when players like Tomas Plekanec, Jaroslav Halak and/or Carey Price are due for raises, if they want to keep them. Gordon thinks Halak’s price could be in the $3.55 million range, similar to Kari Lehtonen. Halak doesn’t want to think hockey right now, saying he needs a vacation. GM Pierre Gauthier will consider all options involving both goalies, even if it won’t be popular with fans. Signing Dominic Moore could be a priority for the team. The Habs will probably look to deal Roman Hamrlik, and the Kostitsyn brothers this summer.
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Bobby Ryan’s agent, Don Meehan, confirmed yesterday that he’s had recent talks with the Anaheim Ducks regarding a contract extension, and expects more meetings in the upcoming weeks. It doesn’t sound like a deal will happen soon, but both sides appear to want to get something worked out over the summer.
- Jeff Blair of the Globe and Mail: Do Globe and Mail writers require a ‘comment quota’ they need to reach each month? The article title says it all “Marleau to Toronto makes sense” … It doesn’t make sense if Marleau wants to win a cup soon. Sure the Leafs would probably love to have this guy, but don’t count on it happening.
- George Richards of the Miami Herald: Panthers GM Dale Tallon met with top goalie prospect Jacob Markstrom about coming over to North America next season. If/when he’s signed, they’d ideally like him to get some action in the AHL to get adjusted to the North American style of play. The Panthers still have Tomas Vokoun and Scott Clemmensen under contract, but if a taker could be found for Vokoun, I’d be surprised if they didn’t move him and have Markstrom battle for the #1 spot.
- Columbus Dispatch: One of the top candidates for the Columbus Blue Jackets head coach position, may also now be a top contender for the Tampa Bay Lightning position. Newly hired GM Steve Yzerman and Kevin Dineen have a strong friendship dating back years. The Blue Jackets are still waiting to meet with Guy Boucher of the AHL Hamilton Bulldogs, who play game 7 tonight.
Wings won’t do anything until Lidstrom decides what he’s doing … Horton trade bait … What will the Canadiens do now?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 25th, 2010
- George Malik of MLive: Red Wings GM Ken Holland told MLive that they can’t re-sign Tomas Holmstrom, Todd Bertuzzi, or any of their 5 RFAs before they hear if Nicklas Lidstrom will be back next season or not. Lidstrom has told the them he’ll let them know in a couple weeks. It doesn’t look like Brett Lebda, Jason Williams, and Doug Janik will be back. Derek Meech should get a qualifying offer from them.
- Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe: Panthers GM Dale Tallon isn’t a fan of players who aren’t willing to pay the price, which means that Nathan Horton could be on his way out, as he known to not have a good work ethic. A Bruin, who has friends on the Panthers has been told that Norton has “No heartbeat”. “We weeded out people who didn’t want to pay the price,” Tallon said. “If you don’t want to pay the price and you don’t want to be involved here, you’re not going to be here.” The Bruins have limited funds available to sign free agents, but could target Flyers winger, Aaron Asham.
- Lyle Richardson of Fox Sports: The Montreal Canadiens currently have 14 players locked up for about $45.7 million. Tomas Plekanec is a UFA and it might take around $5 million to re-sign him. Their biggest off-season situation is obviously what to do with Jaroslav Halak and Carey Price. Halak has shown that he can the #1, but Price could be the future star. RFAs Maxim Lapierre, Tom Pyatt, and Benoit Pouliot should be back. Glen Metropolit, Marc-Andre Bergeron, and Paul Mara probably won’t be back. Halak playoff performance may get himself a contract offer from the Canadiens, maybe in the $3 million range. To clear up some salary space, they may try to get rid of Andrei Kostitsyn (1 year, $3.25 million) and Roman Hamrlik (1 year, $5.5 million), but that could be difficult. One option would be for the Canadiens to package one of them with Carey Price. Buying George Laraque out will free up $1 million. Andrei Markov will be a free agent after next year, and could be shopped around if they think he’ll be out of their price range ($7 million?) or not in their long term plans.
- Mark Purdy of the San Jose Mercury News: It is possible that the Sharks could re-sign both Patrick Marleau and Evgeni Nabokov, but odds are they will only go after 1. Joe Pavelski and Devin Setoguchi will be getting pay increases, and cap space will be disappearing. If they let Nabokov go, they could go with Thomas Greiss and minor leaguer Alex Stalock, or look to bring in a less expensive goalie to challenge for the #1 spot.
- Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer: Carolina Hurricanes majority owner Peter Karmanos Jr. has hired a New York investment firm to help him find a local buyer for a 49% stake in the team. Karmanos former co-owner, Thomas Thewes, passed away a few years ago, he owned the 49% of the team.
Markov has Torn ACL … Jordan Staal Skating … NHL Draft rumors involving the Islanders
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 5th, 2010
- James Mirtle of the Globe and Mail: It was leaked the Montreal Canadiens defenseman Andre Markov has a torn ACL. Markov suffered the injury in Game 1 last Friday after taking a hit from Matt Cooke. Markov missed 37 games this season, the Canadiens were 14-20-3 without him, 25-13-7 with him in the lineup.
- Pittsburgh Post Gazette: Four days after having surgery to fix a severed tendon on his foot, Jordan Staal took a brief skate yesterday morning. Dan Bylsman continues to say Staal is ‘day-to-day’ and also noted … “We would not be risking anything, in terms of his health or the procedure that he had. He just has to heal from a surgical wound and get back in his boot and be comfortable doing that, so there’s not a risk in terms of weighing if he should play or shouldn’t play.”
- Jerry Sullivan of the Buffalo News: Tim Connolly will probably find himself on the trade block this summer, but it could be a difficult move as he’s under contract for 1 more year at $4.5 million, and has a serious injury history. He did put up some decent numbers during the regular season, but did not have a good playoff.
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: There have been no talks yet between Saku Koivu and the Anaheim Ducks. GM Bob Murray does expect to have some talks soon.
- Jeff Gordon of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: More talk on the Blues wondering who will be their ‘goalie of the future’. It appears that it’s not Ben Bishop, maybe it will be 2008 2nd round draft pick, Jake Allen. Gordon thinks that if the Blues don’t think it’s Allen, then they need to go after someone this summer. I don’t see how they would give up on Allen already, he was a high pick only 2 years ago. I think they should re-sign Mason, who has played pretty well for them the last couple years, wait out on Allen, and maybe draft another goalie in the first couple rounds this year.
- Chris Botta of NYI Point Blank: Options for the Islanders with the 5th overall pick in this years NHL Draft. They could trade down collecting a 2nd and/or 3rd round pick, but staying within the top 10. They could try moving up to the top 3 or 4 if they want Cam Fowler or Erik Gudbranson, but that may not be cost effective. No chance of them moving in to the 1 or 2 spots. Brett Connolly should be available at #5 but there are plenty of questionmarks on him surrounding an injury that caused him to miss the majority of the season. Brandon Gormley is also a strong possibility if Gudbranson and Fowler are off the board.
- Gare Joyce of ESPN: Joyce thinks there is a 50-50 chance of Islanders trading their 1st round pick this year. If they do use it, it would most likely be on a defenseman. There is also rumors that Oilers will be selecting Tyler Seguin. Scouts have told Joyce that a scout in Boston was talking about “knowing” that Edmonton was taking Seguin … but one has to wonder if this rumor, was a generated rumor by the Oilers to throw people off.
- Dave Stubbs of the Montreal Gazette: Andrei Kostitsyn may be wearing out his welcome in Montreal. His ice time has been drastically cut, seeing 4th line duty. If they find a taker for his $3.25 million salary, they might be inclined to move him, freeing up some much needed cap space, though it’s earier said than done.
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