Posts Tagged Bobby Ryan

Ducks in the rumor mill … Subban-Plekanec drop the gloves … RNH injures shoulder … Carcillo could face suspension

Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Videos on January 3rd, 2012

  • Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Talk about what Teemu Selanne will do has already surfaced as the Ducks have struggled with a 10-21-6 record.

    “I’ve read some stories in the papers too about what the situation could be,” said Selanne, who took the day off for maintenance. ”To be honest, I haven’t really thought about that too much. I still believe that we can make the playoffs. I don’t want to think about that thing before we’re out.

    “So right now, I just think I’m going to be here. That’s the only goal I have right now. Right now, I can’t see that happening. The focus is still do the job here now and see how it goes. A lot of work to do. It’s a big challenge right now.”

    Ducks GM Bob Murray may look to see what he can get for the few tradable assets he has. Bobby Ryan has already been on the trade block and Ryan Getzlaf’s name has crept into the rumor mill lately. GM Murray has already said that Selanne is retiring a Duck.

  • Bucky Gleason of the Buffalo News: It’s sounding like the Sabres could be shopping some players in effort to turn their season around. Coach Lindy Ruff’s job is safe. The Sabres sit in 11th spot, but they don’t need to blow up their roster. Derek Roy, Drew Stafford, Paul Gaustad and Ryan Miller haven’t lived up to expectations or their contracts.
  • TSN:  Canadiens P.K. Subban and Tomas Plekanec dropped the gloves at yesterday’s practice. No big bombs were landed and both players resumed practicing afterwards. “It’s nothing personal between me and P.K., it’s about the team and to realize we have to start playing as a team,” said Plekanec. “Those things happen.
  • Tim Panaccio of CSN Philly: Flyers winger Jaromir Jagr took himself out of yesterday’s Winter Classic after he was speared in the calf. “It was swelling and getting worse and worse in my leg,” Jagr said. “I just couldn’t skate hard and I didn’t want to just be [on the ice] to be there. I knew at that point I couldn’t help my teammates.”
  • Craig Custance of ESPN: Custance list 10 candidates for next year’s Winter Classic and beyond: 1. Detroit 2. Washington 3. New York 4. Minnesota 5. Toronto 6. Chicago 7. Colorado 8 Columbus 9. Green Bay 10. Las Vegas
  • Jim Jamieson of the Vancouver Province: Canucks forward David Booth hopes to return to the lineup by Jan. 9th against the Panthers. Booth has skated for 3 straight days, but only for 15 minutes. Booth has been out with a sprained knee ligament since Dec. 6th. Defenseman Aaron Rome also skated but is still a ways from returning.
  • Blackshawks Dan Carcillo’s hit on Oilers Tom Gilbert. This will definitely be looked by the league, and a suspension is likely. What do you think?

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Stars not looking to make move just yet … Be patient Sabres fans … Selanne staying, Ryan maybe not … Injury notes: Havlat, Myers, Armstrong, Sanford

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on December 21st, 2011

  • Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: Heika doesn’t think Joe Nieuwendyk is looking to add a player just yet. If they are looking to improve the most, they might eventually look for a number 1 defenseman or center, but they are not easy to get.
  • Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: Some Sabres fans are calling for trades, others to fire the GM and/or coach. Sabres president Ted Black said they are not going to fire Lindy Ruff or Darcy Regier. Black asks fans to be patient. Ducks GM Bob Murray on trading Teemu Selanne at the trade deadline:

    “No, he’s retiring a Duck and that’s the way it’s going to be,” Ducks GM Bob Murray told ESPN.com on Tuesday. “But the way he’s playing, why should he retire?”

    If the Ducks are still at the bottom of the league around deadline time, they could begin listening to Bobby Ryan trade offers again.

  • Erik Erlendsson of the Tamp Tribune: Lightning forward Martin St. Louis returned to practice yesterday wearing a full cage. No timetable has been set as to when he’ll return.
  • Kevin Kurz of CSNBayArea: Sharks winger Martin Havlav will not play before Christmas due to a leg injury. Coach Todd McLellan: “He won’t play before Christmas, and will be evaluated a little bit more over the next few days, but it’s probably going to be a little bit more longer term than what we originally thought. We’re not ready to put a timeline on it yet, but he won’t play before Christmas.”
  • Mike Harrington of the Buffalo News: Sabres defeneseman Tyler Myers has been cleared to return to the team. He is now allowed to grip his stick as he begins him recovery from a broken wrist which happened on Nov. 19th.
  • TSN: The Maple Leafs have placed Colby Armstrong on the IR due to his concussion. The Leafs have recalled Darryl Boyce from the Marlies.
  • Shawn Mitchell of the Columbus Dispatch: Blue Jackets goalie Curtis Sanford is expected to return today after he missed a start on Sunday and yesterday’s practice. Defenseman James Wisniewski also missed yesterday’s practice but he’s expected to return today.

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Fallout from the Kaberle trade … Pronger has concussion-like symptoms, Schenn mild concussion … Ryan to center … Gonchar doubtful

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on December 10th, 2011

  • Pierre LeBrun via twitter: One GM told LeBrun that he was absolutely shocked that the Hurricanes were able to move Tomas Kaberle’s contract.
  • Chip Alexander via twitter: Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford on the signing of Kaberle: “I should have known better.” Rutherford added that he would have “preferred” to have dealt Kaberle for a forward but “there was not a deal out there.”
  • Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette: Hickey doesn’t think the Kaberle trade “doesn’t make sense on any level. ” The Canadiens now have $43 million tied into 12 players and have Carey Price, P.K. Subban, Josh Gorges, Raphael Diaz, Alexei Emelin and Lars Eller as RFAs.
  • Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: Flyers defenseman Chris Pronger has “concussion-like” symptoms, and forward Brayden Schenn has a mild concussion. Pronger will be further evaluated on Wednesday by the same doctors who treated Sidney Crosby. GM Paul Holmgren on Schenn “We’ll keep him shut down through the weekend and see how he is Monday.”
  • M Whicker of the OC Register: With Saku Koivu injured, the Ducks are shifting Bobby Ryan to center Teemu Selanne and Andrew Cogliano. Bruce Boudreau hopes to have defenseman Lubomir Visnovksy back “within a week to 10 days.”
  • Ken Warren of the Ottawa Citizen: Senators defenseman Sergei Gonchar is doubtful for tonight. He left Thursday’s game with an upper body injury. Filip Kuba is at least 3 weeks away from returning from his upper body injury.

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Crosby out 2 games … Brassard will eventually be traded … Kings injury update … Booth out 4-6 weeks … Will Sutton get suspended?

Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Videos on December 8th, 2011

  • Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: The Penguins sent a news release out yesterday that Sidney Crosby will miss the next 2 games. He didn’t feel good after taking a hit on Monday against the Bruins.

    “He saw Dr. Micky Collins of UPMC today and took an ImPACT test, which showed no problems. However, we all think it’s best that he sits out the next two games as a precaution,” Pens GM Ray Shero said in a release.

    “We’re being cautious and keeping in mind he was off for a long time,’’ Shero later told ESPN.com via text message before a flight Wednesday evening. “Take a step back here and see how he feels in a few days.’’

    Michael Arace of the Columbus Dispatch: The Blue Jackets will probably trade Derick Brassard at some point. His career has stalled in Columbus and his agent sounded off on the coaching staff. Brassard has been a healthy scratch for 8 of the last 12 games. His trade value is not high at the moment. His $3.2 million cap hit may look better as the season goes on.

  • Pierre LeBrun chat on ESPN: LeBrun thinks if/when the NHL does decide to expand, another Toronto team, Quebec City and Seattle could work. Devils winger Zach Parise is not available for trade at the moment, but that could change later. Bobby Ryan could go back on the trade market if the Ducks continue to struggle. If Parise does become available, the Kings would be interested. Flames GM Jay Feaster wants to blow up the team but he has a dozen no-trade clauses to deal with.
  • Rich Hammond of the LA Kings Insider: Kings Alec Martinez is fully cleared and is able to return to the lineup when ever the coaches decide to insert him. Winger Justin Williams status for today is not known, he took a shot off his hand. Willie Mitchell’s status for tonight could be decided this morning. Murray did say that both Martinez and Mitchell won’t return tonight. Center Mike Richards hasn’t skated since last Thursday: Murray said: “Richards is progressing. That’s all I can say. That’s all I know, really. He’s in every day, riding the bike, getting more acclimated, getting exercise and a feel for his own self.’’
  • Iain MacIntyre of the Vancouver Sun: Canucks winger David Booth sprained his MCL on a knee-on-knee hit from the Avs Kevin Porter, and will be out 4 to 6 weeks. Coach Vigneault confirmed that Roberto Luongo will start in net tonight in Montreal. Bob McKenzie via twitter: Porter has a hearing with Brendan Shanahan today for the hit.
  • Kevin McGran of the Toronto Star: Maple Leafs winger Colby Armstrong is about a week away from returning from his high ankle sprain. “I had no clue what it would take,” said Armstrong. “It’s a battle. It’s a lingering bitch of an injury. But as soon as they let me go, I can’t wait to get out.”
  • Aaron Portzline via twitter: Blue Jackets winger Kristian Huselius will be out weeks with a groin injury. He’s been out 68 of the last 92 Blue Jackets games.
  • Oilers defenseman Andy Sutton could be looking at another suspension after his hit on Hurricanes Alexei Ponikarovsky. Do you think he’ll get suspended? How many games?

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Tradability of some Capitals … Gillis responds to Luongo rumors … Injury notes on Markov, MacDonald, Kubina, Martinez, Richards, Higgins and Morrow

Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on December 6th, 2011

  • Craig Custance of ESPN: Custance looks at the tradability of some Capitals if they can’t turn it around. Alex Ovechkin: Anything is possible, but he is the face the franchise. He has a cap hit of $9.5 million until 2020-21. Hard to imagine they’d move him. Mike Green: He’ll be a RFA at seasons end. Battling injuries all year, but could be a centerpiece of a Capitals shakeup. Alexander Semin: Carries a cap hit of $6.7 million and has been in the rumor mill for awhile. He would be the most likely ‘top’ player to be dealt if the Capitals decided to do something big. May only get a draft pick for him and not a player in return that would help win a Cup. Nicklas Backstrom: Like Ovechkin, pretty much an untouchable. Has a modified no-trade clause.
  • Elliotte Friedman of CBC.ca: Devils GM Lou Lamoriello said it’s not his final season, “Not unless you know something I don’t.” On Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford giving up his GM post to Ron Francis, “That may happen at some point,” Rutherford said. “But it’s not just around the corner.” The Hurricanes could look to move Tuomo Ruuttu and Tomas Kaberle. A couple of GMs have said a players contract for this year can make it difficult to make a trade. Many teams are at the top of their budget or over due to injuries. Ducks GM Murray said many teams called about Ryan, some thought he was being “auctioned off. ” Toronto, Philadelphia, Rangers, Vancouver, Florida, Carolina, Minnesota and others had interest. Murray added that Selanne will retire a Duck. Some Cup contenders have some cap room this year: Sharks ($2.5 million), Bruins ($4.5 million), Blackhawks ($5.5 million) and Red Wings ($5.6 million). The Panthers were interested in Kyle Turris, but it may be difficult to mess with chemistry down in Florida now. Friedman wonders if the Flames would consider trading Miikka Kiprusoff. His no-movement clause ends at the end of the season.
  • Katie Strang via twitter: Islanders defenseman Andrew MacDonald has been put the IR and is expected to be out 2 to 4 weeks with a right leg injury.
  • Damian Cristodero of the Tampa Bay Times: Lightning defenseman Mattias Ohlund suffered a “big” setback in his recovery. Pavel Kubina has a lower body injury and missed last night’s game. He is not ruling himself out for tonight’s game. “Let’s not kid ourselves,” Boucher said. “We’re not in a position as a team to lose defensemen and keep playing and look the same way. The reality is it’s something we know we have to improve, so it’s tough.” Mathieu Garon will likely start in net tonight.
  • Rich Hammond via twitter: Kings Alec Martinez has been medically cleared to return but will likely miss at least one more game. Mike Richards is “feeling better” but hasn’t returned to the ice and will miss at least the next 2 games due to being on the IR. Richards is able to ride a stationary bike.
  • Monte Stewart of the Globe and Mail: Canucks will be without Chris Higgins tonight as he’s out with a staph infection in his foot. Viktor Oreskovich was recalled and will likely find himself on the 4th line.
  • Jim Diamond via twitter: Pekka Rinne will start in net for the Predators tonight against the Coyotes. Unless according to coach Barry Trotz “he has the flu or falls down the stairs or something like that.”

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Bobby Ryan trade rumors likely over … Ryan off the market

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on December 1st, 2011

So with the Ducks firing Randy Carlyle and hiring Bruce Boudreau, the Bobby Ryan trade rumors are likely over. Unless they get blown away by an offer, he’s likely staying in Anaheim.

Dec. 2nd

  • Larry Brooks of the NY Post: The Rangers never reached the stage in negotiations where they made the Ducks an offer for Bobby Ryan. The Ducks never identified the players they wanted from the Rangers. Rangers GM never gave a concrete proposal, though he established the “general parameters” of what they could be willing to send to Anaheim. If the Ducks decide to later this season that they want to trade Ryan and they are looking for 2 prime roster players, a prospect and draft pick, the Rangers won’t be interested.

Dec. 1st

4:10 PM:

Nick Kypreos via twitter: Ducks GM Bob Murray has told Bobby Ryan he’s off the trade market today. Ryan’s desire to be moved is no longer an issue.

2:10 PM:

Larry Brooks via twitter: Brooks was told Anaheim didn’t make specific requests to Rangers/teams but asked for trade offers, then for better ones.

Jim Matheson via twitter: Matheson can’t understand why the Ducks would want to part with Ryan. Every team is looking for a player like Ryan, and they have the real Ryan.

1:10 PM:

Chris Botta via twitter: Despite the coaching change, the Ducks are considering trading Ryan and others.

Pierre LeBrun and Scott Burnside: Both Burnside and LeBrun would be surprised if Ryan is moved in the short term. The coaching change has bought Murray some time. LeBrun thinks there is a chance he could be moved at some point if Murray gets the deal he wants for him.

10:00 AM – most of the notes mentioned for today were made before Carlyle was fired.

  • Dennis Bernstein via twitter: Bob McKenzie said on TSN last night the Sabres, Predators, Flyers, Maple Leafs, Canucks and Capitals COULD be interested in Ryan.
  • Darren Dreger via twitter: A team that was interested in Ryan said last night that based on the asking price, a coaching change was more likely.
  • John Boruk via twitter: Don’t assume that the Rangers or any other team would have to “unload the farm” for Ryan. Someone willing to give up 1st round picks could get him.
  • Joe Haggerty via twitter: Bruins forward David Krejci on Ryan trade rumors: “I love the city. I love the team. Everybody gets along. Were winning. I want to stay here”
  • Luke DeCock via twitter: The Hurricanes may not have the ammo to make a deal for Ryan if they do want to move him.
  • Dennis Bernstein via twitter: Bernstein doesn’t see how the Rangers are the front-runners Ryan if Staal, McDonagh, Girardi and Sauer are untouchable.

Nov. 30th

7:45 PM:

  • John Boruk via twitter: Source close to Anaheim situation is saying that a Bobby Ryan trade is imminent, with talks having been ongoing for weeks. The Flyers are not involved, and the Rangers may be the front runners. A trade “could” be done by the end of the week. Tampa Bay is also showing interest.
  • Jeff Miller of the OC Register: Ryan practiced with the 3rd line today, and is expected to start there tonight.

    “We’ve talked about moving Bobby and not moving Bobby off of that line,” Carlyle explained. “We still think that that group is going to have to play together for an extended period of time. Because you make a change for one game or two games, there’s nothing etched in stone.”

    Randy Carlyle talked to Ryan this morning and later said:

    “He has to find that inner peace in himself to deal with it,” Carlyle said. “When you go through situations in which we’re going through right now, these are the things that do come up.”

2:40 PM:

  • Chris Botta via twitter: It may not be a Bobby Ryan deal, but the Ducks and Sabres are discussing a possible trade.

10:15 AM:

  • Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Bobby Ryan is aware of the trade rumors surrounding him, and that he could be on his way out. “I wouldn’t be surprised,” Ryan told the Register on Tuesday. “That’s all I’ll say about that.” Ducks GM Bob Murray added: “at any time if we get offered a deal on any player that makes this team better, we would have to take a long, hard look at that.” Ryan added: “If they feel like the Ducks are going to get better and I’m going to get chance to play somewhere else, I guess I would. But I’m certainly not thinking about it day in and day out.”
  • Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: A sources confirms the Ducks are listening to offer for Bobby Ryan. Another source added: “they’re listening on a lot of guys. They have to at this point.” It’s not that the Ducks are shopping Ryan, but teams are calling about him. The Hurricanes and Ducks have talked about Ryan. A deal with anyone would likely involve a young defenseman, young forward and a high draft pick.
  • Sportsnet.ca: 6 teams that need Bobby Ryan: Maple Leafs, Rangers, Flames, Flyers, Devils and Panthers.

Nov. 29th – 8:13 PM:

  • Brian Huddle via twitter: Huddle made note that Bob McKenzie on TSN 1050 said that Anaheim would be looking for a #2 center, Top 4 defenseman, and a 1st/prospect for Bobby Ryan.
  • TSN 1050 Audio: Bob McKenzie talks about the Bobby Ryan rumours, the Burke era in Toronto, the Max Pacioretty suspension.
  • TSN 1050 Audio: Darren Dreger talks with possible Ron Wilson contract extension, rumours surrounding Bobby Ryan, Randy Carlyle and Jarome Iginla.

2:36 PM:

  • Eric Stephens via twitter: Bobby Ryan is skating at the Ducks practice and has been told there is absolutely nothing imminent with him.
  • Gus Katsaros via twitter: A Ryan trade would likely fetch a Kessel type return, 2 first round picks ++. Katsaros adds “There’s also something strange about moving a player of Ryan’s ability to build depth. Especially mid-season. #doesntmakesense.”
  • Larry Brooks via twitter: A source has said the Rangers have had preliminary talks with the Ducks about Ryan. Their level of interest or ability to make a deal is unclear. It could just be “tire-kicking” or it could be more. The Rangers wouldn’t trade Derek Stepan or Ryan McDonagh, among others. Dennis Bernstein via twitter: To fit Ryan in, the Rangers would have to clear $5 million. The Ducks aren’t taking Wojtek Wolski back. Bernstein doesn’t think they have the assets, and not a good match.
  • BD Galiof via twitter: If Ryan is for sale, can guarantee that Islanders GM Garth Snow has had a conversation.
  • Dustin Leed via twitter: When talking to people, it’s all about a defenseman for the Flyers. ‘Interest’ in Ryan has always been there for the Flyers though.
  • Damien Cox of the Toronto Star: Cox thinks the Leafs and every other team should be interested in Ryan. He thinks it would take a young defenseman, maybe one of Luke Schenn, Carl Gunnarson or Cody Franson. Stuart Percy is a young blueliner they may like. Nazem Kadri could be included. Nikolai Kulemin might make sense despite his off year. A 2012 1st round pick could also come into play. Cox then packages Kulemin and Franson for Ryan or Schenn and Kadri for Ryan.

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Ducks fire Carlyle, Hire Boudeau

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on December 1st, 2011

The Anaheim Ducks have fired head coach Randy Carlyle and hired former Capitals coach Bruce Boudreau.

The Bobby Ryan trade rumors will likely slow down. If they continue to struggle, they could to reappear, but they would have to be blown away by an offer.

Curtis Zupke via twitter: GM Murray in a statement:

“This was an extremely difficult decision. Randy is a terrific head coach, and did a tremendous job for us for us for six-plus seasons … At this time, we simply felt a new voice was needed. Bruce is a proven winner with a great track record and we are optimistic we can turn this season around under his leadership.”

Jesse Spector via twitter: “Number of pesky Russians on Ducks roster: 0.”

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Hall out 2-4 weeks … Rask likely staying, Bruins could explore Krejci’s value … Ducks shopping Ryan … Gauthier scouting LA-SJ … injury updates

Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on November 29th, 2011

  • Joanne Ireland of the Edmonton Journal: Taylor Hall will be out 2 to 4 weeks with a left shoulder injury.

    “I thought I was going to be out for a shorter period of time,” he said, “but two to four weeks isn’t bad. It’s not like I’m missing a huge chunk of games, where it would take me three to four games to really get back into the swing of things.

    “I want to get back as quick as I can, obviously. I just have to try and rehab it as quick as possible .. make it as strong as possible.”

  • Elliotte Friedman of CBC.ca: Other coaching situations to watch are in Calgary, Anaheim and Colorado. Eric Francis reported over the weekend that there won’t any changes in Calgary. The Ducks budget is stretched, which may may be evident in them passing up on Blake Comeau and his pro-rated $2.5 million salary. Flames GM Jay Feaster on Jarome Iginla: “He is part of the solution…We are not trading him.” The Wild and Predators made claims on Comeau, who the Flames ended up getting. The Islanders didn’t want to take on any salary in a Comeau trade, so they put him on waivers.
  • James Murphy of ESPN: Murphy doesn’t think the Bruins are considering trading Tuukka Rask now or in the near future. He is their future starting goalie. David Krejci will be a UFA at seasons end, but he may not able to expect “big money.” Murphy thinks that if Krejci continues to be average, they could explore what his trade value is, though he doesn’t think they’ll give up on him yet. Murphy doesn’t know if the Bruins have held contract talks with Chris Kelly.
  • Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Ducks Bobby Ryan found himself practicing with the 3rd line yesterday along with Ben Maxwell and Niklas Hagman. Matt Beleskey was on the top line with Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry. Ducks backup Dan Ellis had an ultrasound yesterday on his groin injury.
  • Luke DeCock: Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford acknowledged that their budget woes cost them the ability to get/keep veteran leadership. He mentioned Eric Cole and Ray Whitney.
  • Dennis Bernstein via twitter: Even with the possible return of Penner on Thursday, Terry Murray’s comments sounded like Dustin Brown could see more time at left wing.
  • Tim Campbell of the Winnipeg Free Press: Jets defensemen Tobias Enstrom and Randy Jones are back skating. Enstrom is expected to be out until after Christmas. Jones could be 8 or 9 days away. Brett Festerling and Derek Meech are out indefinitely. Ron Hainsey hasn’t been able to go since last Wednesday.
  • Ben Kuzma via twitter: With Cory Schneider starting for the Canucks tonight, it makes a strong statement that he could be the number 1 goalie in Vancouver.

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Capitals fire Boudreau, bring in Dale Hunter … Small market for Iginla? Miller wanting out of Buffalo? Ducks keeping coach, big 3 … Lehtonen to IR

Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on November 28th, 2011

  • Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: If Jarome Iginla decides he’d accept a trade from the Flames, Matheson doesn’t see a big market for him as he carries a $7 million salary this year and next, and most Stanley Cup contenders are close to the ceiling or maxed out. Matheson wonders if the Stars would be interested. Blue Jackets forward Derick Brassard has been shopped around the league, but there have been no takers for him and his $3+ million salary. The Oilers would definitely like to acquire Cody Franson, but Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke is in no hurry to move him. Matheson keeps hearing that Sabres goalie is out with a concussion and wouldn’t mind if the Sabres dealt him. The Sabres could use a top center, but have other holes as well. His wife is a California based actress but no California based team needs a goalie. Will the Lightning be calling the Wild  about their goaltenders during the summer? Josh Harding will be a UFA and Niklas Backstrom’s deal ends after next year. Would the Predators consider moving backup goalie Anders Lindback, and toss in a a Ryan Ellis or Jonathan Blum to get a forward? Matheson heard that the Wild turned down a Josh Harding for James van Riemsdyk trade when JVR was still at the University of New Hampshire a couple years ago.
  • Helene Elliott of the LA Times: Ducks GM Bob Murray said he won’t fire coach Randy Carlyle and he won’t trade any of Ryan Getzlaf, Cory Perry or Bobby Ryan, though he has had offers for them.
  • Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: The Senators are 1 of 4 teams that have interest in Blue Jackets Derick Brassard. Brassard’s $3.2 million salary for the next 2 years is a stumbling block. The Sens, and pretty much every other team, have closed the book on Kyle Turris.
  • Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: The Stars have placed Kari Lehtonen on the IR. They are still waiting for results from the MRI, but Heika thinks it could be a long-term injury. They have recalled Richard Bachman. Francis Wathier was also recalled, so Vernon Fiddler could be out.
  • Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: The Oilers could find out today the results for Taylor Hall’s MRI. If Hall is out for awhile, Matheson thinks they should move Magnus Paajarvi up with Shawn Horcoff and Ales Hemsky. If Paajarvi can’t cut with Horcoff and Hemsky, it might be time for him to spend a few weeks in Oklahoma City in the AHL. Renny said that sending Paajarvi down “has been discussed.”
  • Jonas Siegel via twitter: Maple Leafs coach Ron Wilson expects Carl Gunnarsson and David Steckel to return on Wednesday.
  • Rich Hammond of the LA Kings Insiders: Dustin Penner has been given clearance to resume full activity. He won’t play tonight, but should soon. Andrei Loktionov and Trent Hunter spot could be in jeopardy. Scott Parse hasn’t been on the ice in 3 weeks, and there is no indication when he’ll start.

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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.”

  • 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.

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Afternoon notes on Comeau, Bergfors, Perron, Lightning, Maple Leafs, Ryan, Jagr, Pitkanen, Bogosian, Filatov, Ennis and Backstrom

Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL News, NHL Rumors on November 24th, 2011

  • Arthur Staple via twitter: The Islanders have placed forward Blake Comeau on waivers. He has no points in 16 games and is a -11. BD Galiof via twitter: Galiof wonders if a team like the Blue Jackets will take a chance on Comeau. Comeau on waivers means that no team was offering value back, or the Islanders think he can pass through. The Islanders were close to trading him in the summer before GM Garth Snow was able to get the price down on a new contract. Expect the Islanders to be willing to do the same with Reasoner and Rolston if their play doesn’t pick up. Galiof thinks that Comeau could be better on a low-end teams 2nd line. Didn’t play well on the Isles 3rd/4th lines.
  • Bob McKenzie via twitter: The Predators have put Niclas Bergfors on unconditional ($125) waivers. If he clears, they will mutually agree to terminate contract.
  • Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: Blues winger David Perron is itching to get playing, and is getting closer.

    “There’s no date,” Perron said. “It’s just a matter of getting into practices and seeing how I react. It’s only been like four or five days (since he was cleared for contact) and I haven’t done a whole lot of it. We have a lot of games right now and a lot of optional skates and when it’s optional, it’s more about shooting and conditioning, so we haven’t gotten a lot of (physicality) yet.”

  • Erik Erlendsson of the Tampa Tribune: Tampa Bay Lightning GM Steve Yzerman:

    “I never believe you do something just to do something,” Lightning general manager Steve Yzerman said. “You just try to make the team better, whether that’s through recalling somebody or a trade. I’m not going to react. You just have to assess your team.”

    “In general, teams really are not looking to take on contracts, take on money this time of the year and it’s hard to make a trade,” Yzerman said. “It’s hard to find a fit with teams because teams don’t want to give up their draft picks. Teams don’t want to give up their young guys.”

  • Tim Panaccio of CSN Philly: Flyers winger Jaromir Jagr aggravated his groin last night, and will likely miss at least 2 games. “We got two games and then five days off,” Jagr said. “I think I’m not going to play those two games and make sure when I come back I want to come back strong.”
  • Chip Alexander via twitter: Hurricanes defenseman Joni Pitkanen could return on Sunday according to coach Paul Maurice. No decision on who will come out.
  • Chip Alexander via twitter: Hurricanes lines at practice: Skinner, Staal, Ruutu; Poni, Jussi, LaRose; Tlusty, Sutter, Dwyer; Brett Sutter, Brent, Stewart.
  • David Alter via twitter: Leafs lines at practice: Lupul-Bozak-Kessel, MacA-Connolly-Kulie, Frattin-Colborne-Crabb, Steckel-Dupuis-Rosehill, extras, Orr,Grabovski. David Alter via twitter: Grabovski will be out at least another week.
  • Joy Lindsay via twitter: Nikita Filatov says he’ll have a meeting with Senators GM Bryan Murray in the future, to discuss his future. Expects it to be next week.
  • John Vogl via twitter: Sabres forward Tyler Ennis will not play on Friday. Patrick Kaleta is also out, so they will need to call up a forward.
  • Michael Russo of the Star-Tribune: Wild goalie Niklas Backstrom missed last night’s game due to personal reasons and is expected to return to the team in a few days.
  • Brent Sopel via twitter: Sopel says that he’s turned down 3 NHL teams as he won’t break his current contract.

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Blackhawks sign Crawford … Werek and Etem sign entry level deals … Button has trade ideas for Capitals … Panthers want to bring Vokoun back

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 20th, 2011

  • Elliott Pap of hte Vancouver Sun: Canucks winger Mikael Samuelsson will be out for the remainder of the season after adductor tendon and sports hernia surgery.
  • Chicago Breaking Sports: The Blackhawks have signed Corey Crawford to a 3 year deal worth $8 million, a $2.6 million cap hit. “It means a lot,” Crawford said. “I want to be a part of the Blackhawks and I think the management and everyone there wanted me back too. It’s great to get it done early. Now I can just focus on workouts and getting prepared for next season.”
  • Arizona Republic: The Coyotes have signed recently acquired prospect Ethan Werek to an entry level deal. Werek scored 24 goals and added 28 assists in 47 games with Kington of the OHL. He was acquired earlier this month from the Rangers for Oscar Linberg.
  • Eric Stephens of hte OC Register: The Ducks have signed 2010 1st round (29th overall) draft pick Emerson Etem to an entry level deal. His NHL deal is for $900,000 with $90,000 in bonuses, $67,500 AHL salary. Etem scored 45 goals with 35 assists in 65 games with Medicine Hat of the WHL.
  • Craig Button of ESPN: Button offers some trade options for the Capitals this off-season. They have 3 capable goalies in Michal Neuvirth, Semyon Varlamov and Braden Holtby. The Flyers could be one option, and have rugged winger Scott Hartnell. Could expand the deal to include Jeff Schultz and Braydon Coburn. Button thinks the Caps should target Valtteri Filppula and could offer up Mike Green. Jonathan Ericsson could also be a target of Washington. Flames defenseman Robyn Regehr would also look good in a Caps uniform. If the Caps offered up prospect Cody Eakin, it might open up discussions for Rene Bourque or David Moss. Button offers up a blockbuster proposal: one of Washington’s three goalies, Mike Green, and Alexander Semin to Anaheim for Francois Beauchemin and Bobby Ryan.
  • The Fourth Period: The Panthers are very interested in bringing goalie Tomas Vokoun back next season. The 35 year old had a cap hit of $5.7 million last year.
  • Adam Jahns of the Chicago Sun-Times: With Corey Crawford locked up, the Blackhawks will now focus on Michael Frolik and Chris Campoli. They will also have decide what they are going to do with RFAs Viktor Stalberg, Troy Brouwer and Jake Dowell.
  • Michael Russo of the Star-Tribune: The Minnesota Wild have received permission for the Blue Jakets to speak with Ken Hitchcock. GM Chuck Fletcher has apparently interviewed Michel Therrien and Craig MacTavish already. Sources say Fletcher has talked to Kirk Muller, but he has not been ‘interviewed.’

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Will Ryan get suspended for skate stomp? Pronger and Zetterberg are unable to go in their Game 2′s

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Videos on April 16th, 2011

  • Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: Flyers defenseman Chris Pronger skated yesterday but didn’t shoot any pucks due to his injured right hand. It doesn’t look like he’ll play until Monday at the earliest. A source denied the rumor that Pronger won’t play until Game 5. Sabres defenseman Jordan Leopold skated yesterday and hopes to get back in the lineup sometime this series.
  • AP on NHL.com: Henrik Zetterberg won’t be in the Red Wings lineup for Game 2. Coach Mike Babcock said Zetterberg will travel with the team to Phoenix in hope that he can play soon.
  • Chris Stevenson via twitter: Bruins coach Claude Julien said he talks to Marc Savard about once a week, there is no change in his condition.
  • Ducks forward Bobby Ryan stomps on Predators defenseman Jonathan Blum’s skate. Should Ryan get suspended? Bob McKenzie via twitter: Ryan is expected to have a disciplinary hearing.

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Saturday morning free agent notes

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News on April 2nd, 2011

Chris Stevenson of the Ottawa Sun: Stevenson thinks with the Devils payroll situation, Zach Parise could get an offer sheet.

Chris Vivlamore of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution: Andrew Ladd and the Atlanta Thrashers continue to talk contract. Both sides are “on the same page”, but he’s been more focused on trying to help the Thrashers get into the playoffs than on the contract.

Terry Koshan of the Toronto Sun: Koshan thinks the Leafs should re-sign both Tim Brent and Darryl Boyce, both will be UFA at seasons end. Brent made $575,000 and Boyce $527,000. Koshan also thinks the Leafs should give Reimer a shot at the starting job next year, and not go after Ilya Bryzgalov. They might have look at bringing in an experience backup.

Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Ducks forward Bobby Ryan will see how he feels at their morning skate today before determining if be in the lineup today or not against the Sharks. He injuryed his knee towards the end of Wednesday’s game against the Flames.

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NHL videos: Ovechkin fights Dubinsky, Ryan scores with Koivu’s stick, Shelley suspended, Semin fined

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Videos on December 13th, 2010

I added 4 videos for your viewing pleasure today (follow the link below)

Ovechkin fights Dubinsky. Bobby Ryan uses Mikko Koivu’s to score a goal. Jody Shelley receives a 2 game suspension for his hit from behind, and Alexander Semin gets fined for his cross check.

Read the rest of this entry »

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Beauchemin trade bait? Fits for coach Bob Hartley … Quincey cleared but sits … Ryan to center?

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on November 20th, 2010

  • Globe and Mail: Brian Burke’s daughter writes a letter to the Globe in response to Bruce Dowbiggin’s column early in the week.
  • Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Avalanche defenseman Kyle Quincey has been cleared to play after missing weeks with a concussion. He was a healthy scratch for last night’s game. The Avs are now carrying 8 defenseman and likely move one of them.
  • Eric Stephens of the OC Register: With Joffery Lupul possibly returning soon to the Ducks lineup, they might consider moving Bobby Ryan to center, creating 3 lines with that could put the puck in the net.
  • David Pagnotta of the Fourth Period: There are lots of rumors out there what the New Jersey Devils could do once they need to clear some cap space, but why would they trade center Travis Zajac?
  • Craig Custance of the SportingNews: Bob Hartley’s name has been mentioned as possibly the next NY Islanders coach, but his best chance may be if/when Calgary Flames assistant GM Jay Feaster takes over the Flames. Larry Brooks wonders if Hartley would be a good fit in New Jersey or not since his did coach Ilya Kovalchuk in Atlanta.
  • Damien Cox of the Toronto Star: The Maple Leafs may have a trade chip in Francois Beauchemin for teams who are looking for a tough stay-at-home defenseman. Beauchemin is earning $3.8 million this season and next. Cox doesn’t think it’s too bad of a”‘cumbersome contract”, not sure if I agree with that. Devils forward Jamie Langenbrunner’s name keeps popping up in rumors. The Oilers may look to shake things up. Shawn Horcoff and Ales Hemsky were both benched this week. Dustin Penner and Tom Gilbert have played poorly this season. All Oilers mentioned come with a big price tag, all in the $4 million plus.

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Kadri will be sent down to the Marlies … Ryan back on LW … O’Brien odd man out? Fowler makes Ducks, for now?

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on October 1st, 2010

  • David Shoalts of the Globe and Mail: According to Shoalts, the Toronto Maple Leafs made the decision awhile ago that Nazem Kadri will be heading to the Marlies. Kadri’s 3 point night against the Senators didn’t change anything, nor would a solid effort tonight. Kadri has been outplayed by Tyler Bozak and Mikhail Grabovsky, and is not suited for the 3rd line roll. Tim Brent holds the upper hand over John Mitchell for the 3rd line center position, with Christian Hanson locked in on the 4th line.
  • Darren Dreger via twitter: By the end of the weekend, the Maple Leafs roster will be down to 23. Kadri looks to be in for an AHL-NHL season.
  • Brad Ziemer of the Vancouver Sun: Shane O’Brien will make $1.6 million this season, and because Andrew Alberts will $1.05 million, he may get the nod over O’Brien. The Vancouver Canucks are $3 million over the cap, and if they decide to carry 7 defenseman, one will be on the move. When Sami Salo returns mid way through the season, another D will have to be moved. O’Brien, Alberts and Aaron Rome are battling for 6th spot. Rome makes $750,000, so most likely isn’t going anywhere. Coach Vigneault complimented Alberts play so far, and was luke warm towards O’Brien.
  • Chris Kuc via twitter: Chicago Blackhawks coach Joel Quenneville said that they are still unsure if they will carry 21 or 22 players to start the season (23 is the max).
  • Curtis Zupke of the OC Register: The Bobby Ryan experiment at center may be over as coach Randy Carlyle had him back on left wing with Saku Koivu and Teemu Selanne yesterday at practice. For the time being he’ll play on the left side.
  • Curtis Zupke of the OC Register: After waiving 2 more defenseman yesterday, the Anaheim Ducks are down to 7 healthy defenseman. So it appears, for at least the time being, that 2010 1st round draft pick Cam Fowler will start the year with the team. It looks like he’ll be with the team for at least the first 9 games of the season.
  • Michael Russo via twitter: If the Minnesota Wild put in a claim on Martin Gerber (will know today), he’ll earn $500,000 in the NHL, $200,000 in the AHL and a $15,000 claiming fee.
  • QMI Agency, Toronto Sun: Quebec City is moving ahead with their $400 million arena project, despite only have commitment for 55% of the funding. The Federal government haven’t said yet if they’ll contribute the remaining 45%.

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Finger and Kadri could be cap casualties … 84 game schedule? Leighton MRI results today … If the Wild look for a new backup goalie….

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on September 27th, 2010

  • James Mirtle of the Globe and Mail: If the Toronto Maple Leafs keep both Jeff Finger and Nazem Kadri on the roster, they will be slightly over the cap, if they demote both, they could be about $4.6 million under. The Leafs are working with a reduced cap of $58 million, due to going over the cap last year with bonuses. Finger has yet to play in a pre-season game as he’s nursing a knee injury. Burke said he’ll likely carry 8 defenseman to start the year. I think both Finger and Kadri should start the year with the Marlies. So far this pre-season, Kadri has shown that he’s not ready for the jump to the NHL, which is fine in my opinion. Let him gain some valuable pro experience with the Marlies, who should have a competitive team this year.
  • John Shannon of SportsNet: The NHL and the players had talks about a 84 game schedule with a shorter pre-season. It might be worth another look, or at least in the next CBA negotiations. Both sides would like it for more revenue and meaningful games.
  • Pierre LeBrun via twitter: LeBrun doesn’t think Bobby Ryan has looked out of place playing center so far. If Ryan does play center this year, does it drop his fantasy value as he’s not playing with with Getzlaf and Perry?
  • Tim Panaccio of CSNPhilly: Philadelphia Flyers goalie Michael Leighton had an MRI on his lower back yesterday and results should be known today.
  • Detroit News: Mathieu Dandenault has retired from the NHL (I thought he did couple years ago). Dandenault won 3 cups with the Red Wings, and last played in the NHL in 2008-09 with the Canadiens.

If the Minnesota Wild consider looking for a backup for Niklas Backstrom with Josh Harding out for the year …

  • Jim Matheson via twitter: Matheson wonders if the Wild would pickup Jeff Deslauriers on waivers if Devan Dubnyk wins the backup job? Though his $1 million salary may scare them off.

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Sunday morning rumors

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on September 19th, 2010

  • Dan Bickley of the Arizona Republic: Matt Hulsizer put $25 million in escrow on Friday to show that he has the capital to purchase the Phoenix Coyotes. There is plenty of negotiations that have to take place with the NHL and the city. A Canadian media outlet said the team as only sold 4,000 season tickets. Gary Bettman had this to say when he was in Ottawa announcing they’ll get the 2012 All-Star game (before Hulsizer put the money in escrow),

    “We’ve been at this now for a year and a half.”

    “At some point, it may be in Phoenix that we won’t be successful . . . ”

    “We hope it should get done (in Phoenix). I believe Phoenix can support an NHL team, but there are a lot of moving pieces we’re dealing with.”

  • Burce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: It took only 15 in to the 2nd session on day 1 for the Senators to potentially have their fir
  • st injury of the season. Filip Kuba hit a rut in the ice, and suffered an injury. He went for x-rays yesterdays, and if it’s broken, he could be out 6-8 weeks.
  • Eric Stephens via twitter: Bobby Ryan will be at center until he fails according to Randy Carlyle, “We think it’s a position that suits him and makes him more effective.”
  • Tom Reed of the Columbus Dispatch: Only once have the Columbus Blue Jackets drawn less than 10,000 for a game, but that number is going to increase a lot this year. The team has only sold 7,700 season tickets for this season. “Worried is not the right word,” Priest said. “I know what kind of crowds we are going to see early in the season. … We will have some weekday crowds of 8,500, potentially.” Ken Hitchcock will be a special adviser for the team.
  • Joe Haggerty of CSNNE: Timing of Marc Savard’s injury news is ‘peculiar’, but it might open the door for some younger players.

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Pat Burns still alive … Marc Savard out with Post Concussion Syndrome … Ryan at Center

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on September 17th, 2010

  • Toronto Sun: It was reported earlier today the Pat Burns had passed away, but that is not the case. TSNs Bob McKenzie spoke with the Burns …

    “Pat Burns just called me. Seriously,” McKenzie posted. “Here’s what he said, ‘Here we go again. They’re trying to kill me before I’m dead. I come to Quebec to spend some time with my family and they say I’m dead. I’m not dead, far f—— from it. They’ve had me dead since June. Tell them I’m alive. Set them straight.’”

  • TSN: Marc Savard has been suffering from post-concussion syndrome for the past couple weeks. Team team will be cautious with him, and they’ll take it day by day. The team was unaware that he had been having problems the last couple weeks.

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