Posts Tagged Antti Niemi
Kaberle D-Day … Canucks have offer for Bieksa … 4-5 teams interested in Mitchell
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Rumors on August 15th, 2010
Back from a weekend of camping, catching up on things, some quick rumor hits for this afternoon. Kaberle deadline at midnight.
- TSN: Burke As of Sunday Morning, “If these offers are all we get…he’s staying put,”
- Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun: “I’d say there are three or four legitimate offers we needed to discuss,” Burke told the Toronto Sun. “There’s nothing worth taking — yet. If we end up with Kaberle (whose no-trade clause expires at midnight) that’s fine with me.” Tonight is also the deadline for the Leafs to sign Bill Sweatt before he becomes a UFA. Burke pulled their offer off the table weeks ago, and according to his agent, Sweatt never said no to the deal.
- Mark Spector via twitter: Burke talking players/prospects, not top-6 for Kaberle.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: Joe Nieuwendyk says the Stars are not trying to trade for Kaberle today.
- Tom Reed of the Columbus Dispatch: The Blue Jackets could still be in on Kaberle.
- Eric Stephen of the OC Register: The Ducks aren’t in on Kaberle.
- NHL Sources Say via twitter: Sharks have offered Derek Joslin and a 1st to Canucks for Kevin Bieksa. Not in on Kaberle.
- Dan Murphy (Sportsnet) via twitter: Willie Mitchell seen in LA with ‘Kings brass’.
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: Canucks still in on Willie Mitchell. LA and 3 other clubs interested.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Rumor that Sharks might offer LW Jamie McGinn or C Logan Couture for Bieksa. Ribeiro has been offered to every team in the league. Would have to offer more than Ribeiro for Kaberle. Tampa doesn’t want to trade LWer Ryan Malone, a player Burke may covet. Marc Savard hurt by all the rumors this summer. The Panthers, Capitals, Flyers, and Sharks are believed to have some interest in Antti Niemi.
- Daniel Tolenskyvia twitter: Stars have 3 key RFAs still unsigned, ownership uncertainty, so they are probably not trade candidates unless it’s a salary dump. (They’ve been looking to shed Mike Ribeiro and his $5 million salary through 2012-13).
Afinogenov to KHL … Where could Niemi end up? Mitchell taking physicals … “Nothing to report” on Kariya to Anaheim
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on August 6th, 2010
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Maxim Afinogenov will be signing a 5 year deal with SKA of the KHL.
- Adam Proteau of the Hockey News via twitter: The rumors that the Montreal Canadiens are chasing Antti Niemi are “ludicrous”.
- Noah Love of the National Post: Love offers a few guesses as to where Niemi could end up: Colorado, Washington, NY Islanders, Dallas, and Edmonton. Teams with cap issues that could use Niemi: Philadelphia, New Jersey, Ottawa, Montreal, and Chicago.
- Dan Tencer (Edmonton Radio) via twitter: “Asking McGuire about Souray…he interrupts and says: “I’ve been trying to warn you for 3 years that there’s no market for that player!”
- Michael Russo of the Star-Tribune: Willie Mitchell has taken physicals for a few teams. He could sign soon, and the deal could include performance bonuses because of the injuries he’s dealt with in the past. Russo thinks he could get a 1 year deal worth between $1-1.5 million plus bonuses. It won’t be to Minnesota. Washington and San Jose are possibilities. He’s met with Vancouver already.
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Paul Kariya’s agent says there’s “nothing to report” when talking about the rumors of Kariya returning to Anaheim.
- Michael Russo via twitter: Pierre-Marc Bouchard has been progressing very good from his concussion issues.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Peter Forsberg will be skating with MoDo, testing out injured foot once again. The Flyers, Rangers, Washington and Colorado could be interested teams if he attempts an NHL comeback.
- Chris Custance of the Sporting News: So it’s safe to say that Cristobal Huet won’t be back the Blackhawks next season. His agent is working hard to keep him in the NHL, and not in the minors or Europe/KHL, which will be extremely hard. He’s working with the ‘Hawks to find a “reasonable destination” for Huet. Europe seems the most likely landing spot, with Hawks paying his full salary (won’t count against the cap).
Sharks interested in Niemi? Preds may not be talking to Theodore … Price-Canadiens talks are slow
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on August 5th, 2010
- Gary Peterson of the San Jose Mercury News: Could the San Jose Sharks be interested in Antti Niemi? The Sharks have about $4 million in cap space, with 2 goalies under contract. Are Antero Niittymaki (2 years and $4 million) and Thomas Greiss good enough to take the Sharks to the finals?
- Jim Diamond of National Predators Examiner: As of Tuesday night, Predators GM David Poile said he’s fine with heading in to the season with Pekka Rinne and any one of his 4 goalie prospects who have never played an NHL game. Poile didn’t rule out looking for a more experienced goalie. Though the odds of signing him aren’t good, Poile said of Niemi, “We could call and see what he would be interested in, if there would be a fit.” Poile said (as of Tuesday night) that he has not talked to Jose Theodore. (It was rumored on Tuesday that they were talking, 1 year, $1.5 million.) The Preds still have RFA’s Patric Hornqvist and Cody Franson that they want to sign. Those negotiations are still a work in progress, Poile will talk to their agents late this week or early next week.
- Dave Stubbs of Habs Inside/Out: Carey Price’s contact talks with the Canadiens are moving along at a slow pace, which is “relatively normal” according to his agent. The two sides are not close, but both sides are commited to getting a deal done. Price is looking for a short deal, a year or two.
- Randy Youngan of the OC Register: Ducks GM Bob Murray has been rebuilding their defense. The team was 29th in blocked shots and shots allowed. Four starters will be Visnovsky, Lydman, Sutton and Sheldon Brookbank. Murray hinted there could be another veteran Dman on the way. They have been rumored to be interested in Kevin Bieksa, and former Duck, Ruslan Salei wants to return. Murray did say they have 2 spots open for the young players.
- Joe Haggerty via twitter: Tim Thomas won’t get released by the Bruins, they’d like to trade him, might happen during the season.
- Will DePaoli via twitter: Slava Kozlov is still hoping to play in the NHL, and is exploring options.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Former Oiler Ryan Potulny getting interest from the Blues and a few other teams.
Some rumors involving the Bruins … 2 better offers for Kaberle … Kovalchuk hearing begins today
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on August 4th, 2010
- Craig Custance via twitter: The Bruins are now over the cap (after signing Tyler Seguin) but after they put Marco Sturm on LTIR, they’ll be under.
- Joe Haggerty via twitter: Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli has said that he’s in talks with Zdeno Chara and Patrice Bergeron regarding contract extensions, though nothing is imminent at the moment.
- Joe Haggerty via twitter: Chiarelli also said that if no more roster moves are made, Tyler Seguin would probably start the season on the wing.
- Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe: Chances look slim that the Bruins will be able to trade Tim Thomas. The Bruins have gotten some inquiries for Marc Savard. They are asking for a roster player, but may settle for prospects or draft picks. Michael Ryder could be assigned to the AHL. Chiarelli doesn’t have to make an roster moves before the season.
- Kevin Allen of the USA Today: Niemi’s agent, Bill Zito, said he had 5 calls on Monday and 2 more inquiries on Tuesday, regarding Niemi. No offers where made, but he expects to get more than 2, and that it wouldn’t be long before he signed somewhere. Brian Burke has received 2 better offers for Tomas Kaberle, and expects the offers to improve next week (as the Kovalchuk saga should be settled, and the August 15th deadline date getting closer).
- Tom Gulitti of the Bergon County Record: Ilya Kovalchuk’s hearing begins today, but Gary Bettman won’t be there, he’ll be in Calgary promoting the Heritage Classic (he could be there tomorrow). A ruling may come on Friday, but more likely on Monday.
- Mark Everson of the NY Post: Ilya Kovalchuk is expected to win his case versus the NHL, and if/when that happens, the Devils will have until the beginning of the season to shed about $5-6 million in cap space. Possible players to be either traded/waived/demoted are Bryce Salvador, Colin White and Dainius Zubrus. If the NHL wins and Kovalchuk becomes a free agent again, the Kings, Devils and Rangers could be interested.
- Eric Stephens via twitter: There are no discussions going on between Bobby Ryan and the Anaheim Ducks. Ryan wants 3 years, the Ducks want longer. The Ducks may have to budge, or consider trading him.
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: Says the Blue Jackets are not interested in Antti Niemi, they’re set with Mason and Garon.
- Rick Carpiniello of LoHud.com: Recently acquired Todd White, who could be a versatile player for the Rangers, could also be a cap casualty and find himself in the minors if they are looking lower their cap number.
- San Jose Mercury News: According to the Sharks website, they are close to signing Jamal Mayers.
5 Options for Niemi … Pronger has knee surgery … Theodore to the Preds?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on August 3rd, 2010
- Tom Awad of Puck Prospectus/ESPN: 5 options as to where Antti Niemi could end up next season. 1. Washington Capitals: They have $5 million in cap space. Both Semyon Varlamov and Michal Neuvirth are only 22 years old. 2. Edmonton Oilers: Have 3 goalies under contract but none may be #1′s. Nikolai Khabibulin may not play much this year due to injury and legal problems. 3. Montreal Canadiens: The Canadiens still haven’t been able to sign Carey Price. Have just over $4 million in cap room. 4. San Jose Sharks: Antero Niittymaki and Thomas Greiss are their planned goalies for this season. Have about $3.7 million in cap room. Would like to add a top 4 defenseman. 5. New York Islanders: Their current goalies are Dwayne Roloson and Rick DiPietro. DiPietro health is always question. They have over $20 million in cap space, and are under the cap floor.
- Tim Panaccio of CSNPhilly: Chris Pronger had arthroscopic surgery on his knee last week, and should be ready for training camp.
- EJ Hradek via twitter: The Chicago Blackhawks are still looking for a defenseman according to Stan Bowman.
- Jay Gold via twitter: Jose Theodore and the Nashville Predators are talking, 1 year around $1.5 million. The Predators want to lock up Hornqvist first.
- Kevin Allen via twitter: Peter Forsberg is practicing with MoDo and wants to play again.
Modano signing with the Wings … What now for Niemi? Mitchell symptom free, 12 teams inquiring
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on August 3rd, 2010
- Helen St. James of the Detroit Free Press: Mike Modano will be signing with the Detroit Red Wings, the official announcement most likely coming on Thursday. Modano has been offered a 1 year, $1.25 million deal.
- James Mirtle of the Globe and Mail: Blackhawks GM Stan Bowman had been talking with Marty Turco for over a month. Turco had turned down 4 teams before signing with the Hawks, including a 3 year deal from the Flyers. He turned down more money, and longer term. Bowman will now look to rid himself of Cristobal Huet’s salary, minors or overseas. Niemi is now a UFA, but there may not be many teams looking to add a goalie. 3 possible destinations could be Philadelphia, Washington, and San Jose. Though Washington has said they’re happy with their 2 young goalies, and San Jose is happy with Niittymaki and Greiss.
- Tim Panacci of the CSNPhilly: Flyers GM Paul Holmgren said yesterday that they are not interested Antti Niemi.
- Chris Kuc via twitter: 4 teams inquired about Antti Niemi right after the Blackhawks walked away, another called later.
- Tim Sassone of the Daily Herald: With the Blackhawks matching San Jose’s offer sheet for Niklas Hjalmarsson of 4 years and $14 million, it probably cost them Antti Niemi. Hjarlmarsson probably got a $1 million more per season than they had probably hoped.
- Larry Brooks via twitter: Ilya Kovalchuk hearing starts tomorrow.
- Sportsnet.ca: Willie Mitchell has been symptom free from his concussion for the last 3 weeks while training, has had up to 12 teams interested. Mitchell has narrowed the list down to 4: Canucks, Red Wings, Sharks and Capitals.
- Bucky Gleason of the Buffalo News: The Buffalo Sabres have waived Tim Kennedy. Kennedy was awarded $1 million through arbitration on Friday. The Sabres were not allowed to walk away from the salary as it was too low. If he’s not picked up by someone, they could buy him out for a $333,333.33 cap hit for the next 2 years.
- Kevin Mio of Habs Inside/Out: Glen Metropolit signed a 2 year deal with EV Zug in Switzerland.
Blackhawks walk away from Antti Niemi, sign Marty Turco
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News on August 2nd, 2010
TSN: The Chicago Blackhawks have walked away from Antti Niemi’s $2.75 million arbitrator ruling. Niemi is now an unrestricted free agent.
Niemi played in 39 games last season, compiling a 26-7-4 record with 7 shutouts. He was 16-6 with a 2.63 GAA in leading the Blackhawks to the Stanley Cup.
The Blackhawks then signed form Dallas Star goalie, Marty Turco to a 1 year, $1.3 million deal.
Last year Turco had a record of 22-20-11, with 4 shutouts and a 2.72 GAA.
Niemi decision today? Turco signing with Hawks? Parise and Devils not talking yet … Staal contract not progressing
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on August 2nd, 2010
- David Pagnotta via twitter: (as of late last night) Reports out of Chicago are the Blackhawks have signed Marty Turco for 1 year and $1.75 million, no decision on Antti Niemi. Pagnotta reported later that there was no deal, at least not yet.
- Tim Sassone of the Daily Herald: After the Blackhawks decide what to do with Antti Niemi, they’ll have to decide what to do with Cristobal Huet. The ‘Hawks could assign him to the minors or have him play in the KHL or in Europe. They would still have to pay his salary, but would not count against the cap. In his blog, he reported that some believe they were exploring a Neimi trade.
- Tom Gulitti of Bergon County Record: There have been no discussions between Zach Parise and the New Jersey Devils regarding a contract extension. The closer it gets to training camp, the less likely Parise thinks it will happen. Lou has said he wants to get one done before Parise becomes a free agent after next season.
- Terry Frei of the Denver Post: Chris Stewart and Peter Mueller still remained unsigned by the Colorado Avalanche. Mueller and Avs have exchanged proposals, and will be talking soon. Mueller is expected to be at camp. The Avs are below the cap floor. Frei thinks both will be signed before camp starts.
- Nick Montemagno of Blue Shirt Banter: Marc Staal and the New York Rangers are not getting any closer to a deal, and don’t expect it to get done anytime soon.
- Douglas Flynn of NESN: Rumors continue to be out there that Marc Savard could be dealt to clear cap space, but Flynn thinks it may not be a good idea since the Bruins offense struggled last season. Their power play was 21.7% with him in the lineup, 9.7% without him. The team scored 2.54 goals per game with him, 2.24 goals without him, they were 19-26 in 1 goal games. Would trading Savard put more pressure on Seguin to produce right away? On the other side of things, he may not return to form after his latest injury/concussion. The Bruins should be in a win-now mode, and they would be a better team with him in the lineup.
‘Hawks to keep Niemi or go with Turco? Still plenty of FA’s out there … Maltby hopes to return to the Wings
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on August 1st, 2010
- Lyle Richardson (Spector’s Hockey) via twitter: A reliable source told him that the Chicago Blackhawks will keep Antti Niemi.
- Tim Sassone of the Daily Herald: Blackhawks GM Stan Bowman has until Monday to decide if they’ll be accepting Antti Niemi’s $2.75 million arbitration ruling. Since the ruling was under $3 million, it might give the ‘Hawks some wiggle room to keep him. To fit Niemi, they might have 9 players making less than $900,000. They might also keep 20-21 roster players instead of 23 to keep their cap number lower. There’s the chance they’ll walk away and turn to Marty Turco or Jose Theodore.
- Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun: Brian Burke thinks things will heat up for Tomas Kaberle once the Kovalchuk decision comes down next week, but Simmons doesn’t see the correlation (The correlation could be that whoever doesn’t get Kovalchuk, Devils or Kings, could be in the market for a puck moving defenseman like Kaberle).
Burke won a Stanley Cup with a dominant defence of Chris Pronger, Scott Niedermayer, Francois Beauchemin, Sean O’Donnell, Kent Huskins and Joe DiPenta. Bob Murray’s defence in Anaheim as of Saturday: Lubomir Visnovsky, Toni Lydman and Sheldon Brookbank. Can you say Anaheim needs Kaberle, and badly?
- Tim Panaccio of CSNPhilly: Marty Turco said back in June that he turned down a 3 year, $6 million deal, while the Flyers denied the offer. Yesterday Turco texted CSNPhilly saying, “We would have loved to go to the Flyers, but it’s not happening”. Rumors on Friday were that the Turco and Blackhawks have an agreement in place if the ‘Hawks walk away/trade Antti Niemi. It looks like the ‘Hawks could walk away from the $2.75 million ruling.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Some talented veteran free agents are still available: Bill Guerin, Mike Comrie, Andy Sutton, Marty Turco and Miroslav Satan. Teams that still have some money to spend: NY Islanders, Colorado, Atlanta, St. Louis, Nashville, Dallas, Anaheim, Carolina and even Los Angeles. Younger players will be given a chance rather than paying a veteran.
“If you can get a young guy who can get the job done for $600,000, you’re going to give that guy a chance,” said the agent. “You’re not going to pay a veteran $1.5 million to do the same job with this salary cap.”
More names that are still available: Teemu Selanne, Mike Modano, Lee Stempniak, Paul Kariya, Miro Satan, Mike Comrie, Bill Guerin, Willie Mitchell, Andy Sutton, Marc-Andre Bergeron, Marty Turco, Jose Theodore, Ruslan Fedotenko, Brendan Morrison, Maxim Afinogenov, Kim Johnsson, and John Madden.
- Greg Krupa of the Detroit News: Kirk Maltby is hoping to return to the Detroit Red Wings next season. Maltby’s agent says the sides are still talking, and thinks something could get done.
Turco to ‘Hawks if they walk away or trade Niemi … Bieksa and Kaberle getting interest …
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on July 31st, 2010
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: Richard Bloch could be the arbitrator in Kovalchuk case. Wednesday could be the start date, possibly concluding on Thursday.
- Tim Sassone of the Daily Herald: Sources are saying Antti Niemi could be getting between $3 and $4 million from arbitration, which won’t be a good number for the ‘Hawks. Before arbitration the ‘Hawks offered Niemi a 3 year, $8 million deal. 3 teams that could be interested in Niemi are the Sharks, Capitals and Flyers.
- NHLSourcesSay via twitter: If the Blackhawks walk away or trade Antti Niemi, they have a verbal agreement with Marty Turco for 1 year, $1.5 million.
- Dennis Bernstein via twitter: After the trading of James Wisniewski, the Ducks could be looking at Andy Sutton, possibly Tomas Kaberle.
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: The Ducks are apparently very interested in Kevin Bieksa, also looking into Tomas Kaberle.
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: The Columbus Blue Jackets are still looking at defenseman, including Kevin Bieksa and Tomas Kaberle.
- Vicki Hall of the Calgary Herald: The Calgary Flames are currently about $2.35 million over the cap ceiling after the Ian White signing. That doesn’t include Mikael Backlund (about $1.27 million) but does include Ales Kotalik ($3 million). Kotalik could be sent to the minors or head back to Europe, both options would take Kotalik’s number off the cap. They have 8 defenseman under contract, which could mean one of them could be dealt.
- Steve Conroy of the Boston Herald: After Blake Wheeler’s arbitration ruling, the Bruins are currently over the salary cap ceiling. They aren’t expected to buyout a player. The Bruins will most likely send a player to the minors, with Michael Ryder and his $4 million contract the leading candidate, or make a trade.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Jamal Mayers is talking to multiple teams, and hopes to have a deal done by end of next week.
Setoguchi getting a 1 year deal … Caps interested in Niemi? Stars and Neal waiting it out
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on July 30th, 2010
- Craig Custance of the Sporting News: The San Jose Sharks and Devin Setoguchi could be closing in on a 1-year deal, which could be done in the next week. They are also starting talks with Joe Thornton on an extension.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: The Dallas Stars and James Neal still haven’t been able to reach an agreement, both are playing the waiting game. The Stars could be looking for a 2 year deal in the $2.5 million range, with Neal wanting more. Possible comparables in Tomas Fleishmann and Mason Raymond signed in that range. Other RFA that could be used as comparables are Bobby Ryan, Devin Setoguchi, Chris Stewart and Patric Hornqvist.
- James Mirtle via twitter: Reading between the lines to Blackhawks GM Stan Bowman comments, other teams may be looking into Antti Niemi’s availability.
- NHL Sources Say via twitter: If the Blackhawks don’t like Antti Niemi’s ruling and he becomes available, the Capitals could be interested.
- Damian Cristodero of the St. Petersberg Times: The Tampa Bay Lightning have 7 defenseman under contract, and GM Steve Yzerman could be looking for 1 more. Yzerman would like to bring Paul Ranger back, but Ranger is not ready to make a decision at this time. Ranger missed most of last season due to personal reasons.
- Craig Custance via twitter: The Atlanta Thrashers still have some interest in bringing Maxim Afinogenov back, though negotiations may not be that active.
White-Flames heading to arbitration … Regin and Campoli at standstill with Sens … Richards staying in Dallas long-term? Redden to be waived?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on July 29th, 2010
- Randy Sportak of the Calgary Sun: It doesn’t appear like the Calgary Flames and Ian White will reach an agreement before their Friday arbitration case. From White’s agent, “If something happens, something happens. But we’re not counting on it”. White made $950,000 last season, where he had 13 goals and 25 assists in 83 games.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: It looks like both Peter Regin and Chris Campoli will be going to arbitration with the Ottawa Senators, as contract talks with both are going nowhere.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: It looks like Brad Richards will remain with the Stars, with the possibility of being one of the center-pieces the club builds around. “The Stars want to keep Richards and Richards wants to stay here.” He’d have to take a pay cut from his $7.8 million if he were to resign.
- Douglas Flynn of NESN: Before the Bruins include Tyler Seguin and Blake Wheeler’s salary (his ruling should come out sometime today), they are pushing up against the cap. Efforts to trade Marc Savard and Tim Thomas are at a standstill. Michael Ryder and his $4 million salary could be a cap casualty. Chiarelli has said he won’t buyout players. Ryder would be a $1.33 million cap hit the next 2 seasons if they bought him out, which might not help out as much as they need. His contract may make it hard to find a trade partner. They could put him through waivers and send him to the minors. Ownership may not want to pay $4 million to someone in the minors, and there is a chance that Ryder would be unhappy and have a negative influence on their prospects.
- Jimmy Murphy via twitter: Accroding to La Presse, if Antti Niemi’s arbitration ruling is too high, they’ll look to trade him and sign Jose Theodore.
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: The Rangers are about $6.7 million under the cap, with Marc Staal still unsigned, and the need for possibly another defenseman. Wade Redden could be waived during camp. It’s believed that Frolov turned down a 4 year, $18-20 million deal from the Rangers to sign a 1 year deal with the Rangers.
- David Pagnotta via twitter: Even after signing Alexei Ponikarovsky, the Kings may still look to add another top guy.
- Alessandro Seren Rosso of RussianHockeyFans: Alexander Radulov’s KHL contract runs out after this season, and it looks like he’ll be heading back to Nashville next year to play out the remaining year with the Predators under is old NHL contract.
- Genadi Boguslavski via twitter: 2010 St. Louis Blues 1st round draft pick, Vladimir Tarasenko, is still deciding if he’ll play in the KHL or head to St. Louis. Andy Strickland says that the Blues expect Tarasenko to play in Russia this year.
- Craig Custance via twitter: The Phoenix Coyotes are talking with the Lee Stempniak, they’d like him back at the ‘right price’.
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.
- William DePoali via twitter: Raffi Torres is getting some interest lately according to his agent.
Coyotes Sale in Trouble? Wheeler, Niemi Heading to Arbitration … Frolov to Rangers
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on July 27th, 2010
- SpectorsHockey via twitter: 17 teams have less then $10 million in cap space. 13 have less than $5 million. 13 teams with more than $10 million in cap space, most have ‘self-imposed’ cap ceilings.
- Rebekah L. Sanders and Cecilia Chan of the Arizona Republic: The city of Glendale is saying the Ice Edge Group have not complied with the terms to purchase the Phoenix Coyotes. Ice Edge and the NHL say the deal is going forward. The group were to submit financial documents to gain exclusivity on negotiations with the city, but haven’t sent all documents, 5 weeks past the imposed deadline. Glendale and Ice Edge had hoped to have negotiations closed by the August 6th. Ice Edge believe they have submitted the documents that meet the requirements. The city claims the exclusivity rights are done, so in theory, they and the NHL, could entertain other offers. Bill Daly shot down rumors on Friday that the deal was in trouble.
- James Mirtle via twitter: Antti Niemi’s arbitration date is set for Thursday. If he is awarded more than $3 million, Mirtle thinks they should walk away and sign either Turco or Theodore.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: Kovalchuk decision could be made as early as next week. Arbitrator should be chosen by today.
- Helene Elliott via twitter: After Kovalchuk and another move fell through for the LA Kings, the Kings went back to Alexander Frolov, he said no.
- Michael Obernauer of the NY Daily News: Alexander Frolov’s agent has said that they have a 1-year deal in place with the New York Rangers. Another source said they weren’t quite there yet. Frolov was close to heading to the KHL, but he wanted to stay in the NHL. He’ll take a short deal this summer, in hopes of getting a long term next year.
- Douglas Flynn of NESN: Blake Wheeler and the Boston Bruins are set to go to arbitration today. Wheeler had a cap hit last season of $2.825 million including bonuses. The Bruins could use David Perron’s 2 year, $4.3 million as a comparable. Wheeler’s agent could use Nikolai Kulemin’s 2 year, $4.7 as a comparable, with Wheeler having better numbers over the last 2 years. Clarke MacAthur was awarded $2.5 million with lesser numbers that Wheeler, the Thrashers walked away.
- James Mirtle via twitter: According to Teemu Selanne and Paul Kariya’s agent, Don Baizley, they are still deciding on whether to play or not.
- Roman Augustoviz of the Star-Tribune: Nick Leddy, acquired by the Blackhawks from the Wild for Cam Barker last season, should decide in the next week if he’ll be turning pro and leaving the Gophers.
Options for ‘Hawks if Niemi isn’t back … Stars would match most offer sheets for Neal
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on July 23rd, 2010
Jesse Rogers of ESPNChicago: There hasn’t been much progress between the Chicago Blackhawks and Antti Niemi. Niemi’s arbitration date is set for July 29th (arbitration dates for all players). They could still trade him before the arbitration date, walk away from the ruling if they don’t like it, or possibly trade him after they accept the 1-year deal.
Jesse Rogers of ESPNChicago: Blackhawk options if they lose Niemi: Corey Crawford could be the “best and most likely option.” Some organizational members liked him better than Niemi, and he makes $800,000. Marty Turco has already turned down $2 million a season from Philly, so he might be too expensive for Chicago. A lower salary for a chance to win the cup could sway him. Turco is talking with a couple teams, and has turned down more than Philly. Jose Theodore had a great record but a bad GAA last year, his career is on the tail end, and he’d have to take a big cut from his $4.5 salary (which he’d have to do anyways if he wants to stay in the NHL). Vesa Toskala (not if they want a shot at winning the cup next year) has a winning record every season except for last year. Would have to take a pay cut from $4 million. Has options in Europe if no one in the NHL wants him. Ray Emery could be cheap option, but he’s coming off hip surgery.
Helene Elliott via twitter: Ducks GM Bob Murray and Teemu Selanne have talked this week, and plan to speak again next week, no decision yet on if he’ll return or retire.
Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: The Dallas Stars would match reasonable offer sheets for James Neal, if he were to sign one. If the deal was front loaded, it might be difficult, but they would probably find a way to do it. If the offer was for over $4.638 million, they might consider taking the 2011 1st, 2nd, and 3rd round picks (compensation for signing RFA’s). If RFA’s are not signed by Dec. 1st, they are ineligible for the remainder of the season.
Damian Cristodero of the St. Petersberg Times: The Tampa Bay Lightning have shown mild interest in Aaron Asham. Asham could bring some toughness.
Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Colorado have been checking out Andrew Cogliano’s availability.
Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Dmitry thinks that Alexander Radulov could be back in the NHL next year (2011-12).
Aaron Portzline via twitter: Nikita Filatov and Blue Jackets coach Scott Arniel will speak in the next couple days. Arniel says “I’m going to let him do most of the talking, but I’ll have something to say at the end of the conversation.“
Though choices in Chicago … Gagne to Leafs? No ‘Sweat’ for Leafs? Senators need a tough Dman
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on July 10th, 2010
- Tim Sassone of the Chicago Tribune: With the Sharks signing Niklas Hjalmarsson to a 4 year, $14 million offer sheet, the Blackhawks may have to decide if they want to keep Hjalmarsson, Antti Niemi, or possibly Patrick Sharp. The Blackhawks could match the offer and wait for Niemi’s arbitration hearing, if it’s for more than $4 million a season they could decline it and Niemi would be a UFA. They could then go sign Turco or Theodore for less.
- Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun: There is a chance that the Maple Leafs won’t be able to sign recently acquired Bill Sweat. If Sweat doesn’t sign by August 15th, he’ll become an unrestricted free agent. Sweat was acquired along with Kris Versteeg from the Chicago Blackhawks. It could end up being a 3 for 1 deal.
- Chuck Gormley of the Courier Journal: With the signing of Nikolai Zherdev, the Flyers are $1.4 million over the cap, and still have RFA’s Daniel Carcillo and Darrol Powe. They are still trying to move Simon Gagne, and have been linked to the Kings for weeks, but they could also be talking to the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Flyers could package Gagne and Braydon Coburn ($8.45 million in salary) for Tomas Kaberle ($4.25 million). The Flyers might request goaltending prospect,Jussi Rynnas as well.
- Allan Muir of Sports Illustrated: Muir thinks that the Flyers could send Simon Gagne to the Kings for defensive prospect, Thomas Hickey. The Kings have a surplus of young defenseman. I could see the Flyers doing this deal, but I’m not sure the Kings are completely sold on Gagne, and Hickey is a top prospect.
- Mike Russo of the Star-Tribune: Minnesota Wild GM, Chuck Fletcher, has talked with Mike Modano about finishing his career in the city where it all started out. Modano is still undecided if he’ll return next season. The Red Wings and Sharks are also said to be interested. The Wild could be looking for some scoring help, and could consider: Alex Frolov, Lee Stempniak, Paul Kariya, Maxim Afinogenov, Alexei Ponikarovsky, Miro Satan.
- Don Brennan of the Ottawa Sun: The Ottawa Senators could use a rugged defenseman. “I’d like to add one more player,” Murray said at Friday’s news conference to introduce Gonchar. “Maybe (he’s) in the organization. Watching Jared Cowen playing in the development camp, we may already have a defenceman who can play in that more physical spot that we’re looking to fill.” If they decided to sign a free agent, Andy Sutton, Willie Mitchell and Shaone Morrisonn could be possibilities.
- Peter Adler of the Edmonton Journal: According to a Czech news agents, Ales Kotalik will be joining Lokomotiv Yaroslavl. But according to the official Czech hockey site, Kotalik had this to say “I haven’t heard a thing about that”.
Plenty of free agent rumors and trade options
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 13th, 2010
- Jim Kelly of SportsIllustrated: Kelly throws out a new Blackhawks name as possible trade bait to elevate their cap situation, Marion Hossa and his 12 year, $62.8 million contract. Though it would be hard to see someone biting on the $5.2333 million per season salary hit for the next 11 years.
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Stephens brings up the Tomas Kaberle-for-BobbyRyan rumor again. Ducks GM Bob Murray called it ‘ridiculous.’ The Ducks are still negotiating with Ryan, and waiting to hear what Scott Neidermayer’s decision is on retirement. Stephens thinks if the Leafs were to included Luke Schenn or Nazem Kadri in the conversation, it might make the deal more do-able ….
- Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun: Chicago’s Niklas Hjarmalsson played himself into a top 3 or 4 defenseman, and might get an offer sheet from someone. Bruins scouts are split on Taylor Hall and Tyler Seguin, so it doesn’t appear they’ll push hard for trade with Edmonton for the #1 pick.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: If teams are looking to re-make their teams this off-season throught the free agent market, it isn’t going to happen with this year’s weak crop. It is rumored that Steve Yzerman has talked with the Canadiens about Carey Price. The Canadiens would want scoring in return, Martin St. Louis? Garrioch’s top-10 UFAs: 1.Patrick Marleau 2. Ilya Kovalchuk 3.Scott Niedermayer 4.Tomas Plekanec 5.Evgeni Nabokov 6.Dan Hamhuis 7.Anton Volchenkov 8.Alexander Frolov 9.Sergei Gonchar 10.Marty Turco
- Courier Post: The Flyers have until the end of the month (for exclusive negotiating rights) to decide if Michael Leighton will be their #1 goalie next season as he’ll become a UFA. If they’d like to move in a different direction, potential UFAs that might interest them are; Marty Turco, Evgeni Nabokov. If they go the trade route there are plenty of options; the usual Price or Halak, Tomas Vokoun and Tim Thomas, but the article also mentions Jonathan Quick or Jonathan Bernier, both of the Los Angeles Kings. They could use Jeff Carter as trade bait for a Canadiens or Kings goaltender.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: The Edmonton Oilers will continue to try and trade Ethan Moreau, Patrick O’Sullivan and Robert Nilsson. From June 15th to the 30th, they’ll also have the option to buy each player out for 2/3rds their contract. The Oilers will also try to move Sheldon Souray, possibly to the Sharks who will be looking to replace Rob Blake. Though Souray’s cap number is $5.4 million, his actual salary is $4.5 million. The Oilers have to decide if they which of their 15 Group 2 RFAs they want to qualify.
- Michael Trailkos of the National Post: After posting a 26-7-4 regular season record with a 2.25 GAA, and winning the Stanley Cup, Antti Niemi is looking to be piad like a #1 goalie after just one seaon in the league and won’t be taking a discount. From his agent, “He’s going to get his money,” Zito said. “But the term is going to have something to do with it too.”
- Kevin McGran of the Toronto Star: With only 6 picks in this year’s NHL draft, and no action until #62, Toronto Maple Leaf scouts may have an easy time. But with Brian Burke at the helm, they have to be ready for anything. Head amateur scout, Dave Morrison and his staff have put together their list of top 210 prospects, and are ready to go with any additional picks the Leafs may get. Burke has stated that he’s not actively looking for extra picks, though I’m not entirely sold on that.
Huet Done in Chicago … Ranger Talk … Not much movement for Bruins next year?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on March 26th, 2010
Garrioch Rumors Update .. The Cost of Shot-Blocking, Stay-at-Dman is in $4 Million Range … Summit Series Anniversary Matchup?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on March 14th, 2010
- With Antti Niemi taking over the starting job from Cristobal Huet, and with a raise he’ll be getting this off-season, the ‘Hawks may bury Huet and his $5.625 in minors or buy him out.
- The price for shot-blocking stay-at-home bluelines, Zbynek Michalek (Pho.), and Anton Volchenkov (Ott) could be in the $4-4.5 million range. Michalek will most likely have out priced himself in Phoenix. Volchenkov and the Senators are hoping to work something out.
- The Ducks asked Teemu Selanne if he wanted to go anywhere at the trade deadline, he wanted to say. The Kings called about him.
- After July 1st, the Bruins can talk to Zdeno Chara about a contract extension. He’ll be a UFA in 2011, and currently carries a $7.5 cap hit.
- Sheldon Souray’s no-movement clause expires on July 1st, and Oilers will work hard to move him. He’d prefer the west coast to be closer to his family. The New York Rangers will most likely make a pitch.
- The Canadiens didn’t want to move Jaroslav Halak at the deadline but may look deal him before the NHL Draft.
- Contract talks between the Penguins and Sergei Gonchar are not going well. He could hit the open market and get in the $6-7 million range, the Pens were hoping for a hometown discount.
- Jaromir Jagr is still a possibility for the Oilers next year, and the Rangers would like to get him back …. “But some believe it’s a risky move. “I just don’t know about Jagr. I understand why (the Oilers) want to make the move, I’m just not sure they should do it. I’m not sure if there is any gas left in that tank,” said one league executive”
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