Posts Tagged Boston Bruins
Torres hearing on Thursday … Semin not back with Caps? Vokoun done with Caps … Bigger list for Nash … KHL after Grigorenko
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 15th, 2012
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: Coyotes Raffi Torres suspension appeal will be heard Thursday morning.
- Craig Custance of ESPN: According to Alexander Semin’s agent Mark Gandler, he has no intentions of re-signing with the Capitals and will become a UFA on July 1st.
“It was good while it lasted. With the lack of playoff success, with the direction they are going. They decided to change directions. That’s within their rights. Alex doesn’t fit into that system obviously,” Gandler told ESPN the Magazine. “It just doesn’t make any sense to him. He plays, he did the best he could under the circumstances and he earned his right to be a free agent.”
Semin would prefer to remain in the NHL rather than heading to the KHL. He would also like to get an expanded role, which includes penalty killing. He averaged 16:47 minutes per game this year, his lowest since his rookie year.
“I think the issue is with the organization, not necessarily with the coach,” Gandler said. “They told us Alex is not going to play short-handed, he’s not going to play in the last minute. He’s going to get the same icetime as everybody else … Alex is not ready to be a role player. He wants to be a full-time player. It’s important to him.”
Semin made $6.7 million last season.
“I don’t know what the market (for him) is going to be,” Gandler said. “I know there aren’t many players like Alex around.”
- Greg Brady via twitter: A scout told Brady at the trade deadline that GM George McPhee was pleading with other teams to trade for Alexander Semin.
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: Tomas Vokoun doesn’t have a deal in place with Lokomotiv of the KHL. He prefers to stay in the NHL. Chuck Gormley via twiiter: Vokoun said he never planned on playing with the Capitals for more than a year.
- The Fourth Period: A source told TFP that Rick Nash and his agent recently reviewed his contract with the Blue Jackets and could have an expanded list of teams he’d accept a trade too. The Sharks, Maple Leafs, Rangers, Canucks, Kings and Bruins had interest in Nash at some point this season.
- Slava Malamud via twitter: Russian sources say that CSKA could make a big play for Mikhail Grigorenko. If true, it could hurt his draft stock.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Leo Komarov will join the Maple Leafs this summer. Gus Katsaros via twitter: At this point, Komarov would be a Marlies player.
- Rich Hammond of LA Kings Insider: Kings winger Simon Gagne has been cleared for contact but is long ways from playing. He remains in LA. He’s a long shot for returning this yeare.
Coaches up in the air … Hossa hopes to be ready for next year … Improving FAs … Thinking Price at $5.5 million
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 4th, 2012
- Ben Kuzma of the Vancouver Province: The Canucks and Sharks future coaching situations are still up in the air. Alain Vigneault and Todd McLellan could be looking for new jobs this offseason. McLellan could interest the Canucks and Flames. Vigneault would get interest from the Canadiens. If the Canucks let Vigneault go, they could also look at Craig MacTavish and Scott Arniel. They could also wait it out and see what happens with the disgruntled Joel Quenneville in Chicago. Gordon McIntyre of the Vancouver Province: Vigneault left town before having a his ‘postseason court’ with the media and isn’t available to talk about his future. He has 1 year remaining on his contract.
- Brian Hedger via twitter: Blackhawks Marian Hossa said that this is the “biggest concussion” he’s ever had. He’s feeling better and progressing. He also added that there is quite awhile until training camp and he’s confident that he’ll be ready to play by then.
- Craig Custance of ESPN: Potential free agents who have been increase value during the playoffs: Dustin Penner (LA), Francis Bouillon (NASH), Alexander Semin (WAS), Bryce Salvador (NJ), Matt Carle (PHI) and Mike Knuble (WAS).
- Elliotte Friedman of CBC: Many people don’t think that Dale Hunter will be back in Washington. GM George McPhee said he would like him to stay. Once the Kings made the playoffs, coach Darryl Sutter told his team the worst was over and it’s time to relax and have fun. The average that some league executives think Carey Price will get on a new deal is $5.5 million per season. Some noted that Price has leverage which could drive up the price. Some GMs aren’t certain the Bruins will keep Tim Thomas, and there would be a market for him. The annual “Trade Marleau” watch is on.
Petrov, Mayorov sign in KHL … Preds still hope to re-sign Suter and Weber … Coaching notes for Sharks, Canadiens … 5 priorities for Sens
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 3rd, 2012
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Islanders prospect Kirill Petrov signed a contract extension with with Ak Bars.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Ak Bars has also signed Blue Jackets defenseman Maxim Mayorov. Aaron Portzline via twitter: It’s believed that the Blue Jackets will qualify Mayorov and keep his rights.
- Ted Kulfan of the Detroit News: The two 2011 Stanley Cup Finals goaltenders, Roberto Luongo and Tim Thomas, could find themselves on the trading block this summer. Luongo has given the Canucks a short list of teams he’s accept a trade too: possibly the Panthers, Lightning, Blackhawks and Maple Leafs. Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli has heard the rumors on Thomas:
“I’ve seen speculation about moving a goalie, but I’m certainly not inclined to do that,” Chiarelli said.
“Tim didn’t have statistically the year he had the year before, but I thought he had a very good year. We have, if not the best, one of the top goaltending tandems in the league.”
The Predators still believe they’ll be able to re-sign Ryan Suter and Shea Weber. Predators chairman Tom Cigarran:
“We were going to keep the very best players to the extent we can, to the extent they want to play here,” Cigarran told the Tennessean. “To the extent they want to play here, we would step up and make sure we had the money available to pay them.”
- David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News: Sharks GM Doug Wilson got a vote of confidence from ownership, but the coaching staff hasn’t received one yet. Wilson is still in the review process, which should be completed over the next couple weeks. Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: Coach Todd McLellan has 2 years left on his deal, and LeBrun thinks he’ll remain with the team. New Canadiens GM Marc Bergevin would definitely be interested in Alain Vigneault if the Canucks fired him. Marc Crawford could also be in the mix for the Canadiens job. Darren Dreger reported that Bob Hartley and Michel Therrien are in consideration. The sale of the St. Louis Blues to minority owner Tom Stillman is “very close.”
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Senators top 5 offseason priorities: 1. Bring back Daniel Alfredsson 2. Sign defenceman Erik Karlsson 3. Re-sign center Chris Kelly as a UFA 4. Trade defenceman Sergei Gonchar 5. Buy out winger Bobby Butler.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: The Blues tried to upgrade their blueline at the trade deadline, but were unsuccessful. Kent Huskins will likely replace Ian Cole tonight. Matt D’Agostini could replace Alex Steen on the line with Andy McDonald and David Backes. Blues coach Ken Hitchcock wanted to rule Jaroslav Halak out of the series to eliminate any potential distraction.
Grossman not cleared yet … 2 or 3 weeks for Habs GM? Alfie to take some time … Could Bruins trade Thomas? Seguin needs surgery
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on April 27th, 2012
- Dan Rosen via twitter: Flyers Nicklas Grossman said he hasn’t been cleared yet. Hopes to play on Sunday.
- Stu Hackel of Hockey Inisde/Out: Renaud Lavoie wrote that it’s possible that the Canadiens could have a new GM in place in the next 2 or 3 weeks.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Senators Daniel Alfredsson will take some time deciding his future:
“I will see how I feel physically and mentally after taking some time off.”
“This year has been unbelievable. I’ve had a lot of fun. It’s been great to be part of a great group of guys. They kept me upbeat and happy when I’m a grumpy old man. They’ve made this year very enjoyable.”
- Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe: Tim Thomas’s no-movement clause will expire on July 1st. Thomas has 1 year left on his 4 year, $20 million contract. Tuukka Rask will be a RFA on July 1st as well. If the Bruins were to move Thomas, Anton Khudobin would backup Rask if/when they re-sign him. If they moved Thomas’s $5 million cap hit, they could use the money elsewhere. Zach Parise will be a UFA, has played for Julien before, but may be looking for $7 million plus. Toronto, Chicago, Tampa Bay, Florida, Edmonton, and Columbus may be looking for goaltending help this summer. The Bruins may not get much return for Thomas due to age and contract, but would give the B’s cap relief.
- Fluto Shinzawa via twitter: Bruins Tyler Seguin needs surgery, likely on his left hand.
Canucks need to lock up Schneider before dealing Luongo … More on Luongo … Theodore starts … Norris finalists
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Starting Goalies on April 26th, 2012
- Darren Dreger via twitte: Canucks Cory Schneider is 1 year away from being an unrestricted free agent and could easily demand 4 years and $4 million per season. Andy Strickland via twitter: The Canucks need to lock up Schneider before trading Luongo.
- Craig Custance via twitter: One GM noted that the return the Canucks get for Roberto Luongo may be better than we think. Only takes 2 teams to drive up the price. Jim Matheson via twitter: Tampa Bay already has 1 long contract in Vinny Lecavalier, would they really want another in Luongo? Matheson thinks they’ll look younger with Jonathan Bernier. Darren Dreger via twitter: Dreger thinks the Canucks will have to take a contract back in a Luongo trade. He’s still an elite goalie, but may only have 4 good years left and lots of term. James Mirtle via twitter: Mirtle points out (through capgeek) that you just can’t buy Luongo out after 6 year under the currently CBA:
SEASON SALARY CAP HIT BUYOUT SAVINGS BUYOUT CAP HIT 2018-19 $3,382,000 $5,333,333 $583,333 $2,798,667 $2,534,667 2019-20 $1,618,000 $5,333,333 $583,333 $1,034,667 $4,298,667 2020-21 $1,000,000 $5,333,333 $583,333 $416,667 $4,916,667 2021-22 $1,000,000 $5,333,333 $583,333 $416,667 $4,916,667 2022-23 $0 $0 $583,333 -$583,333 $583,333 2023-24 $0 $0 $583,333 -$583,333 $583,333 2024-25 $0 $0 $583,333 -$583,333 $583,333 2025-26 $0 $0 $583,333 -$583,333 $583,333
- Harvey Fialkov via twitter: Jose Theodore will start for the Panthers and Jason Garrison will be back in the lineup.
- Scott Cullen via twitter: Norris finalists: Erik Karlsson, Shea Weber and Zdeno Chara.
Luongo to submit list … Thomas could hit market as well … Stars may look at Nash … Could Hawks gauge interest in Keith or Sharp?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on April 26th, 2012
- James Duthie via twitter: Sources are saying that Roberto Luongo will submit a short list of teams the he would waive his no-trade clause to go to next week. The Maple Leafs will be on it. Nick Kypreos via twitter: The Canucks didn’t even have to ask Luongo to waive his no-trade. He tells them during his exit meeting with he wants out of Vancouver. Dan Murphy via twitter: Murphy confirms that the Maple Leafs will be on Luongo’s list. Tampa Bay will also be on it. James Mirtle of the Globe and Mail: Mirtle thinks that the Canucks and their fans should expect a homerun if they trade Luongo. There are not a lot of teams that will be interested, and he has 10 years left on his contract. Tim Thoams, Miikka Kiprusoff and others could become available. Mirtle thinks if the Canucks could get a late 1st rounder or a middling prospect, it could be a fair deal. They might even have to take back some salary. Steve Buffery of the Toronto Sun: Buffery doesn’t think trading for Luongo is a good idea. “Besides the fact he’s 33 years old and has 10 more years in his deal, there is a reason why he is expendable in Vancouver … because he’s 33 years old and has 10 years left on his contract.”He notes that the Leafs aren’t close to a cup, so why not go with the youngsters – James Reimer, Ben Scrivens, Mark Owuya and Jussi Rynnas.
- Jimmy Murphy via twitter: Murphy predicts that Tim Thomas will be traded this offseason.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: Heika thinks the Stars may be open to the idea of trading for a player like Rick Nash due to the limited number of scores on the free agent market. One key point regarding Nash is whether is okay numbers are a result of being in a bad system in Columbus or if he could break out on a line with Jamie Benn and Loui Eriksson. What the Blue Jackets would want is another question. Would the Stars be willing to part is a solid player, a top prospect or 2 and a high draft pick? The Stars may think higher of Zach Parise and may see what he’ll do if he hits the open market.
- David Haugh in the Chicago Tribune: Haugh thinks the Blackhawks should look at the trade interest in defenseman Duncan Keith or forward Patrick Sharp. Keith hasn’t been the same since 2010 and could bring more back than Brent Seabrook. Sharp is a more tradeable asset than Marian Hossa, and Toews and Kane remain untouchable.
- Helene St. James via twitter: Red Wings Tomas Holmstrom on whether his 39-year old body can handle another summer of training and long season:
“I love the game, I would love to play three, four more years,” Holmstrom said. “It’s so much fun to come to the rink and everything. It’s just if the body can take it one more year or two more years. There’s lots of wear and tear on the body. Mentally, the last couple of years, you’ve got to go through the soreness, aches and pain, and it can be pretty tough during the regular season.”
Possibly the only way that Holmstrom is in a Wings uniform next season is if Nicklas Lidstrom says he’d like to have him come back too.
- Damien Cox of the Toronto Star: At the trade deadline, the Maple Leafs were given a choice between 24-year old Steve Downie (a RFA looking for more than $3 million) or 20-year old Carter Ashton for defenseman Keith Aulie.
- Toronto Sun: Reports are that Patrick Roy has met with Serge Savard at a restaurant recently, but Savard denied they met in-person, but spoke on the phone.
Afternoon notes on: Torres, Grossman, Martin, Neuvirth, Halak, Bryzgalov, Garrison, Silfverberg … Bruins and Rangers lines
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Starting Goalies on April 20th, 2012
- Adam Jahns via twitter: Raffi Torres hearing was at 12 CST in New York.
- Randy Miller via twitter: Flyers defenseman Nicklas Grossman’s upper-body injury is believed to be a concussion. Sam Carchidi via twitter: Sounding like he’s out at least for the rest of the series. Dan Rosen via twitter: Look for Erik Gustafsson to play in place of Grossman.
- Joe Depto via twitter: Penguins coach Dan Bylsma confirms that defenseman Paul Martin is out tonight.
- Katie Carrera via twitter: The Capitals have assigned Dany Sabourin to the AHL, which likely means Michal Neuvirth will be the backup for Game 5.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Strickland doesn’t think Jaroslav Halak will be able to backup Brian Elliott tomorrow night.
- Andrew Gross via twitter: Rangers lines: Anisimov-Stepan-Gaborik Dubinsky-Richards-Callahan Fedotenko-Boyle-Prust (Hagelin extra) Kreider-Mitchell-Rupp (Scott extra)
- Fluto Shinzawa via twitter: Bruins lines: Lucic-Krejci-Rolston. Paille-Bergeron-Peverley. Caron/Pouliot-Kelly-Seguin. Marchand-Campbell-Thornton.
- Mike Morreale of NHL.com: Panthers defensman Jason Garrison was a late scratch last night due to 2 lower-body injuries, and is listed as day-to-day.
- Sam Carchidi via twitter: Ilya Bryzgalov will start in net for the Flyers.
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: Senators prospect Jakob Silfverberg won’t be leaving for North America until Sunday.
Shanahan suspension videos for Arron Asham, James Neal and Nicklas Backstrom
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Suspensions, NHL Videos on April 18th, 2012
Penguins Arron Asham was suspended for 4 games for his cross-check on Flyers Brayden Schenn.
Penguins James Neal was suspended for 1 game for charging Flyers Claude Giroux.
Capitals Nicklas Backstrom was suspended for 1 game for cross-checking Bruins Rich Peverley.
JVR could practice today … Lindback will get trade interest … Oilers looking for 1 or 2 top Dmen … CBJ unlikely to move 2nd overall
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on April 14th, 2012
- Frank Seravalli of the Philadelphia Daily News: Flyers James van Viemsdyk began skating on Sunday and could practice with the team today. He had surgery on March 6th on his fractured foot. His possible return for the 1st round is not known.
- Craig Custance of ESPN: Teams that are looking to add a goaltender this summer will be looking at RFAs, Cory Schneider, Jonathan Bernier and even Tuukka Rask. Predators Anders Lindback is another RFA goalie that could find himself playing on another team next year. Custance points out that if someone signed Lindback to an offer sheet, that Preds don’t have a lot of free money to match. A 2 year, $3 million offer would only cost a 3rd round pick in compensation. A trade is a more likely scenario, as they will look to recoup that picks they moved at the deadline. In the last 2 years the 6 foot 6 Lindback posted a 16-13-2 record with a 2.53 GAA and .914 SV%. The Lightning have a stockpile of draft picks. The Blue Jackets are looking at upgrading their goaltending. The Maple Leafs are also said to be looking at adding a goalie, but they may be looking for a veteran goalie.
- Darren Dreger of TSN (mailbag): The Oilers would like to add 1 or 2 top-end defenseman, and the 1st overall pick will likely be brought up in several cases. He doesn’t see them interested in a Rick Nash or Jarome Iginla.
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: Portzline has been told that it’s unlikely the Blue Jackets trade the 2nd overall pick, but it’s not out of the question. They’d gladly move the pick they get from the Kings.
- Mike Brophy of Sportsnet.ca: Toronto Marlies coach Dallas Eakins will be in the running for the Flames head coaching position. Other possibilities for the Flames are Troy Ward, Mike Sullivan, Craig MacTavish, Bob Boughner and Bob Hartley.
- Elliotte Friedman via twitter: Before the 2011 NHL Draft, an Eastern team scout said that a team is going to get a steal in Sean Couturier. The scout knew his team would not be in a position to draft him and added that Philadelphia would be a perfect fit as they have success with young French players.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Penguins 2010 1st round pick Beau Bennett signed an entry level deal and will leave the University of Denver. Dave Molinari via twitter: He has a $900,000 cap hit. He has a $810,000 salary, $90,000 signing bonus and a minor league salary of $67,500.
Afternoon notes on: Radulov, Sedin, Gill, Krejci, Kubina, Rome, Ebbett, Preds and Wings lines, Halak starts
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Starting Goalies on April 13th, 2012
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Predators Alexander Radulov’s Russian agent: “Radulov will most likely spend the next season in Russia.”
- Brad Zeimer of the Vancouver Sun: Canucks forward Daniel Sedin won’t be in the lineup tonight.
- Craig Custance via twitter: Predators Hal Gill won’t be in the lineup tonight but he’s making progress. He’ll travel with the team to Detroit. Josh Cooper via twitter: Gill: “I’m going to give it some more time. I don’t think at this point I can help the team.”
- Katie Carrera via twitter: Bruins David Krejci thinks he’ll be able to go for Game 2.
- Scott Burnside of ESPN: Flyers defenseman Pavel Kubina will be back in the lineup after being a healthy scratch. He’ll replace Marc-Andre Bourdon who is day-to-day with an upper-body injury.
- Helene Elliott via twitter: For Game 2 Aaron Rome will replace Keith Ballard, and Andrew Ebbett is in for the suspended Byron Bitz.
- ESPN: Predators lines: S. Kostitsyn – Fisher – Erat , A. Kostitsyn – Legwand – Radulov, Bourque – Spaling – Hornqvist , Yip – Gaustad – Halischuk. Defensive Pairings: Suter – Weber, Klein – Josi, Bouillon – Hillen/Ellis … Red Wings Lines: Franzen – Datsyuk – Bertuzzi , Filppula – Zetterberg – Hudler, Nyquist – Albdelkader – Cleary, Miller – Emmerton – Holmstrom. Defensive Pairings: Lidstrom – Ericsson, Kronwall – Stuart, Quincey – White.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Jaroslav Halak will start Game 2 for the Blues.
2011-12 NHL Attendence for each team: Final numbers
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on April 9th, 2012
Here are the final home attendance numbers for the 2011-12 season. The Winter Classic attendance is included in Philadlephia’s numbers, hence the high “% Capacity” number.
15 teams had 100% capacity or more. 20 teams had over 96% capacity. The Phoenix Coyotes had only a 72.5% capacity this season, which is an increase for them compared to the last 2 seasons.
| RK | TEAM |
2011-12
AVG |
%
Capacity |
2010-11
AVG |
2009-10
AVG |
2008-09
AVG |
| 1 | Chicago |
21,533
|
105
|
21,423
|
21,356
|
22,247
|
| 2 | Montreal |
21,273
|
100
|
21,273
|
21,273
|
21,273
|
| 3 | Philadelphia |
20,433
|
107.4
|
21,273
|
19,535
|
19,545
|
| 4 | Detroit |
20,114
|
100.7
|
19,680
|
19,546
|
19,865
|
| 5 | Toronto |
19,506
|
103.7
|
19,354
|
19,289
|
19,312
|
| 6 | Ottawa |
19,356
|
101.1
|
19,289
|
19,260
|
18,949
|
| 7 | Calgary |
19,289
|
100
|
18,378
|
18,269
|
19,289
|
| 8 | Vancouver |
18,884
|
102.5
|
18,860
|
18,810
|
18,630
|
| 9 | St. Louis |
18,809
|
98.2
|
19,150
|
18,883
|
18,554
|
| 10 | Pittsburgh |
18,566
|
102.7
|
18,240
|
17,078
|
16,975
|
| 11 | Buffalo |
18,550
|
99.9
|
18,452
|
18,529
|
18,531
|
| 12 | Washington |
18,506
|
101.3
|
18,397
|
18,277
|
18,097
|
| 13 | Tampa Bay |
18,468
|
96.2
|
17,268
|
15,497
|
16,497
|
| 14 | NY Rangers |
18,191
|
100
|
18,108
|
18,076
|
18,949
|
| 15 | Los Angeles |
17,920
|
100
|
18,083
|
17,313
|
16,488
|
| 16 | Minnesota |
17,772
|
98.4
|
17,565
|
17,388
|
17,039
|
| 17 | Boston |
17,564
|
100
|
17,562
|
17,558
|
17,039
|
| 18 | San Jose |
17,562
|
100
|
18,012
|
18,415
|
17,488
|
| 19 | Edmonton |
16,839
|
100
|
16,839
|
16,839
|
16,839
|
| 20 | Nashville |
16,690
|
97.5
|
16,142
|
14,979
|
15,010
|
| 21 | Florida |
16,628
|
86.6
|
15,685
|
15,146
|
15,621
|
| 22 | Carolina |
16,042
|
85.9
|
14,820
|
13,947
|
16,572
|
| 23 | Colorado |
15,498
|
86.1
|
14,775
|
15,535
|
15,429
|
| 24 | New Jersey |
15,396
|
87.4
|
16,415
|
15,240
|
15,790
|
| 25 | Winnipeg |
15,004
|
100
|
13,469
|
13,607
|
14,626
|
| 26 | Anaheim |
14,760
|
86.4
|
14,738
|
15,168
|
16,990
|
| 27 | Columbus |
14,660
|
80.8
|
13,658
|
15,416
|
15,543
|
| 28 | Dallas |
14,226
|
76.8
|
11,059
|
12,735
|
17,680
|
| 29 | NY Islanders |
13,191
|
81.3
|
15,073
|
17,215
|
13,733
|
| 30 | Phoenix |
12,420
|
72.5
|
12,188
|
11,989
|
14,875
|
| Prior years attendance for Winnipeg are AtlantaÕs attendance numbers. | ||||||
Horton a “long shot” … 5 things Habs GM must do … Hurricanes to look at top UFAs … Time to break up Flames? Jets free agents
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on April 9th, 2012
- Joe McDonald of ESPN Boston: Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli said it’s a “long shot” that forward Nathan Horton will be able to return for the playoffs.
“If he were to be cleared at some point, he would need at least a couple of weeks to get back,” Chiarelli said during a 20-minute conference call Sunday. “He’s quite far off right now. I know he’s skating, but he’s having little bouts here and there of post-concussion symptoms. It’s a long shot. I’m not going to rule him out, yet, but it’s a long shot.”
Tuukka Rask has been on the ice but is questionable for the Capitals series. Anton Khudobin would be the backup to Tim Thomas until Rask is ready.
- Jack Todd of the Montreal Gazette: Todd lists 5 things the Canadiens new GM has to do: “1. Persuade the organization to stop using the exhibition season as a cash cow. 2. Find someone who can coach the power play. 3. Throw the expensive deadwood overboard. 4. Four lines, not 1.5. 5. No sacred cow.”
- Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer: Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford said they should bid to sign at least one high-priced free agent. There will also be some other personnel changes.
“When you don’t make the playoffs, it’s an indication we’ve got work to do in the summer and some areas to get better at,” Muller said after the Canes closed the season with a 4-1 loss to the Florida Panthers. “I think with a few changes and a few tweaks here and there, we should be competing for the playoffs.”
- Steve MacFarlane of the Calgary Sun: If MacFarlane were the Flames GM, he’d shop Jarome Iginla with a fairly high asking price, with an NHL ready prospect as part of the package. He’d also listen to offers for Miikka Kiprusoff, but would have to be blown away. Cap purposes would put Jay Bouwmeester on the trade block. He wouldn’t bring Olli Jokinen back as his price and term will likely be too high.
- Ken Wiebe of the Winnipeg Sun: The Jets have 7 UFAs: Chris Mason, Randy Jones, Mark Flood, Jim Slater, Tanner Glass, Kyle Wellwood and Tim Stapleton. They have 4 RFAs in Ondrej Pavelec, Evander Kane, Spencer Machacek and Eric Fehr. Fehr is not expected to be brought back. Jones may not be back due to the depth on the blueline.
“I don’t think there’s a whole lot to be nervous about,” said Kane. “It will be interesting to see what happens with the CBA and how things work themselves out. We’ll see what happens. I’m not 100% on how it works but that’s what I have my agents for and I think they’re the best at what they do. I’m sure they’ll be giving me a lot of information and it should be an interesting summer. We’ll see what the best situation is.”
- Larry Brooks via twitter: Rangers prospect Chris Kreider is flying home from Tampa after their BC title win. There is no indication that he is on the verge of signing.
Afternoon notes on: Boychuk, Grossman, Penguins, Maple Leafs, Senators and bunch of starting goaltenders
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Starting Goalies on April 5th, 2012
- Fluto Shinzawa via twitter: Bruins defenseman Johnny Boychuk is day-to-day with a mild knee sprain.
- Tim Panaccio via twitter: Flyers defenseman Nicklas Grossman is wearing 2 knee braces and remains optimistic for the playoffs.
- Will DePaoli via twitter: Penguins Sullivan, Neal and Nikanen will not be in the lineup for the Penguins. Will DePaoli via twitter: Eric Tangradi is skating on a line with Sidney Crosby and Pascal Dupuis.
- Stephen Whyno via twitter: Scratches or out tonight for the Capitals: Halpern, Ward, Erskine, Schultz, Vokoun. Brian McNally via twitter: Michal Neuvrith is expected to start tonight.
- Paul Hendrick via twitter: The Maple Leafs have sent Joe Colborne back the Marlies. David Steckel will be back in the lineup. Mikhail Grabovski won’t play. Ben Scrivens will be starting in net. Jonas Siegel via twitter: Grabovski is not sure if he’ll be able to return on Saturday. He was cut around his knee by Brayden McNabb’s skate and required 20-30 stitches.
- Ian Mendes via twitter: Senators Filip Kuba and Erik Karlsson will play tonight. Matt Gilroy is out. Ben Bishop will start in net.
- Josh Cooper of the Tennessean: Pekka Rinne has been battling an illness this week. He was the first off the ice and Barry Trotz said he’s “probably” the starter tonight.
- Bob Duff via twitter: Jimmy Howard will start in net for the Red Wings against the Devils.
- Curtis Zupke via twitter: Jonathan Quick was the first off the ice for the Kings and the likely starter.
- Michael Russo via twitter: Josh Harding will start in net for the Wild.
- George Richards via twitter: Jose Theodore will start in net for the Panthers against the Capitals.
- Luke DeCock via twitter: Cam Ward was the first off the ice and will likely start in net for the Hurricanes.
- Steve Zipay via twitter: Martin Biron will start in net for the Rangers against the Penguins.
- Shawn Mitchell via twitter: Steve Mason will start in net for the Blue Jackets.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Brian Elliott will start in net for the Blues on Friday. Jaroslav Halak will start on Saturday.
Carter’s return unknown … Boychuk injured … Jones wants to stay … Selanne to know by July 1st … Milbury’s Crosby comments
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on April 4th, 2012
- Rich Hammond of the LA Kings Insider: When Kings forward Jeff Carter will be able to return is still not known. According to GM Dean Lombardi, Carter’s ankle is going to be sore for a while. Ideally the Kings would like to keep Carter off the ice until the playoffs start, but they are still no guaranteed a spot.
- Jason Mastrodonato of the Boston Herald: Bruins defenseman Johnny Boychuk had to be helped off the ice as he appeared to injury his left knee. He was seen limping around after the game, but was at least walking on his own. More will be known today.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Avalanche forward David Jones doesn’t know if he’ll be back with the team next season. Jones will be a UFA, and despite wanting to sign an extension by now, the Avs rarely do contracts in-season.
“It’s unfortunate they don’t do any of their signings during a season,” Jones said Tuesday, the Avs’ fourth consecutive day without a game. “Which is fine, and just something you have to adjust to. But you can’t really think about that too much right now. We still have games to play and have a hope we can make the playoffs.”
Jones currently makes $2.5 million and could get a deal in the $ to $4 million range. Jay McClement will also be a UFA and would like to return but added “it’s out of my hands.”
- Kirk Penton of the Winnipeg Sun: Despite not being close to 100%, Jets defenseman Dustin Byfuglien will play out the season. Ondrej Pavelec and Evander Kane are both RFAs at the end of the year. “Not really. I’m just focusing on finishing the season strong,” the goaltender said. “There’s going to be a lot of time to think about it.”
- Mark Everson of the NY Post: Devils forward Jacob Josefson broke his wrist last night and will be out 4 to 6 weeks.
- Arthur Staple via twitter: The Islanders have signed 2010 1st round pick Brock Nelson to an entry level deal.
- Shawn Mitchell via twitter: Blue Jackets winger Rick Nash doesn’t know if he’ll play for Team Canada at the World Championships due to his “bumps and bruises.”
- Eric Stephens via twitter: There is nothing new on Ducks Justin Schultz’s situation, and sources are saying there won’t be any decision for awhile. Schultz plans to remain in school to finish the year.
- Jeff Miller of the OC Register: The Ducks competitiveness for next season will play a part in whether Teemu Selanne will return for another season.
“The good thing is the Ducks don’t have to do much (in the offseason),” Selanne insisted despite the team missing the playoffs. “That’s always very important to me. I’m going to see (general manager) Bob (Murray) after the season to get his view about this team and the future.”
If Selanne is going to retire, he said he will let the team know by July 1st.
- Derek Van Diest of the Edmonton Sun: The Oilers have 10 pending free agents, 7 are restricted. It’s unlikely that Linus Omark will be back next year. Since he’s a RFA, they will likely have to qualify him before trying to trade him. If the Oilers draft Mikahil Grigorenko and bring in Anton Lander, they may look to trade Eric Belanger and his $2 million salary. The Oils will have to make a decision on Darcy Hordichuk. Ryan Smyth situation remain in question. Goalie Devan Dubnyk is one of their RFAs.
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN (mailbag): The Wild need to find some offense going forward. The Wild will go after Zach Parise if he hits the open market, but will be joined by the Red Wings, Rangers and others. The Flames aren’t interested in a “Edmonton-style rebuild,” but there will be changes. LeBrun thinks the Flames need to sit down with Jarome Iginla and Miikka Kiprusoff and have “The Chat.” LeBrun doesn’t think Dion Phaneuf is not captain material and their top 6 forwards are too small. They need a #1 goalie, #1 center and some spare parts. Ducks GM Bob Murray has some big offseason decisions to make regarding his core group. LeBrun doesn’t think they should trade Ryan Getzlaf as they’d spend the next decade trying to replace him.
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: Mike Milbury’s comments about Sidney Crosby:”Little goody two-shoes [Crosby] goes into the corner and gives a shot to [Brayden] Schenn,” Milbury said. “Schenn was late to the party, he should have turned around and drilled him right away, but I guess better late than never. So you know, Crosby gets cross-checked, big whoop. He said after he came back from his 35th concussion, ‘I’m not going to do this anymore, I’m not going to get into these scrums, I’m going to stay away from that stuff.’ He couldn’t help himself because there’s a little punk in Crosby. He’s not the perfect gentleman. He’s not the sweet kid you see in interviews with his hat pulled down over his eyes. I’d say screw him, hit him.”
Afternoon notes: Briere, Gonchar, Segal, Komarov, Leafs goalies, Flyers lines and starting goalies
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL News, NHL Starting Goalies on April 3rd, 2012
- Sam Carchidi via twitter: Flyers Daniel Briere hopes to be able to return for the start of the playoffs, but said there is no timetable.
- Ian Mendes via twitter: Senators coach Paul MacLean said that Sergei Gonchar will be out tonight with a lower-body injury.
- Kevin Allen via twitter: The Lightning put Brandon Segal on waivers.
- Damien Cox via twitter: The Maple Leafs are hopeful they can lure forward Leo Komarov (2006 6th round draft pick) over next year. He’s been playing for Moscow Dynamo (stats at bottom).
- The Leafs Nation Audio: Justin Goldman (@TheGoalieGuild), Ian (@67Sound) and (@JPNikota) talk about the Leafs goaltending situation and Francois Allaire. (@TheGoalieGuild is an excellent twitter follow, really informative)
- Adam Kimelman via twitter: Flyers lines: Hartnell-Giroux-Jagr, Schenn-Read-Simmonds, Talbot-Couturier-Voracek, Shelley-Wellwood-Rinaldo. Defensive pairings: Timonen-Coburn, Carle-Kubina, Lilja-Bourdon.
- Jimmy Murphy via twitter: Bruins Tim Thomas is not playing or dressing tonight.
- Josh Cooper via twitter: Andres Lindback is the likely starter for tonight. Pekka Rinne didn’t skate.
- Andrew Gross via twitter: Henrik Lundqvist will start in net for the Rangers tonight.
- Sam Carchidi via twitter: Ilya Bryzgalov was the first off the ice and the likely starter for tonight.
- Jonas Siegel via twitter: Ben Scrivens looks to be starter tonight for the Maple Leafs.
- George Richards via twitter: Jose Theodore will start in net for the Panthers.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Brian Elliott will start in net tomorrow against the Red Wings.
Leo Komarov
Canadiens GM candidates … Howson on draft, Nash … McQuaid OK … Bryzgalov out this weekend … P.A. likely gone
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Starting Goalies on March 31st, 2012
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: LeBrun lists some potential candidates for the Canadiens GM: Julien BriseBois, Marc Bergevin, Francois Giguere, Vincent Damphousse, Claude Loiselle, Patrick Roy, Pat Brisson, Pierre McGuire, Andre Savard, Doug Risebrough and Pierre Lacroix.There has been talk that the Blue Jackets may want to move their top pick as the top 2 prospects are Russian, and they haven’t had much luck with Russians. GM Scott Howson thinks that is hogwash:
“What I will say to that speculation is that I think it would be close-minded of us, I think it would border on stupidity to not include any player just because they’re from Russia,” Howson told ESPN.com this week. “I think everybody is different. The fact that Zherdev and Filatov didn’t work out here will have no bearing on who we select in this upcoming draft.”
Howson knows they need to address their goaltending situation, and he lines their blueline. On Rick Nash:
“I’ll have a conversation with Rick after the year ends and see where he’s at, see where we’re at, and make a game plan moving forward,” said Howson.
- Stephen Harris of the Boston Herald: Bruins defenseman Adam McQuaid’s eye injury appears to only be minor, and no concussion was sustained. McQuaid was hit from behind by Jason Chimera the other night. He won’t play in either game this weekend, but should be back soon.
- Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: The Flyers likely won’t play Ilya Bryzgalov this weekend in either of their afternoon games against the Senators and Penguins. Sergei Bobrovsky is expected to start both games.
- BD Gallof via twitter: The more Gallof talks to people, the more likely it seems that P.A. Parenteau will sign somewhere else, cashing in on his first big payday. Parenteau will want to be paid like a top a line player, but the Islanders don’t include him there if their kids develop.
- Joanne Ireland of the Edmonton Journal: The Oilers tried to recall Magnus Paajarvi yesterday but the move was rejected as they’ve already used their 4 callups after the trade deadline. In February, Paajarvi was assigned to the AHL so that he’d be eligible from their playoffs, then immediately recalled. The Oilers also called up Linus Omark, Teemu Hartikainen and Chris VandeVelde.
“We believed we had confirmation to recall Magnus in one of our four call-ups after the trade deadline,” said Oilers general manager Steve Tambellini. “The league informed us today the only way he could be recalled was under an emergency recall basis.”
- Mark Master via twitter: Leafs coach Randy Carlyle is not sure if Jonas Gustavsson will be able to go today.
Morning notes on Sedin, Toews, Carter, McQuaid, Reimer, Gustavsson, McDonald, Hejduk, Mueller, Suter and Parise
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on March 30th, 2012
- Iain MacIntyre of the Vancouver Sun: The Canucks get some good news in that Daniel Sedin could be ready to return for the 1st round of the playoffs according to GM Mike Gillis.
“It’s risky to make projections with these things because one day the player just may not feel right, but he’s going in the right direction,” Gillis told The Vancouver Sun. “He’s feeling a little better each day. We’re hopeful if things keep going the way they are that he’ll be available [for the first round].”
- Adam Jahns of the Chicago Sun-Times: Blackhawks Jonathan Toews is getting real close to returning.
“I’m not sure if it’s official yet, but probably,” Toews said. “If it’s not [Thursday], it will be soon, though.”
Defenseman Steve Montador’s concussion symptoms returned on Tuesday and he’s out indefinitely.
- Rich Hammond of LAKings NHL.com: Kings Jeff Carter is unlikely to play tonight due to an ankle injury.
- Steve Conroy of the Boston Herald: Bruins defenseman Adam McQuaid left last night’s game in the 1st period after being hit face-first into the boards by Jason Chimera. McQuaid has had concussion issues in the past. He was cut over the eye and was ‘woozy’ leaving the ice.
“We’ll probably learn more (today),” coach Claude Julien said. “But for the obvious reasons that the medical staff deals with those kind of things, the minute you don’t feel right, they pull you out. So hopefully we’ll get good news (today).”
- James Mirtle of the Globe and Mail: The Maple Leafs may shut James Reimer down for the season as a result of concussion-like symptoms returning.
“There will be probably a point that there’ll be a decision made if he’s going to return or not,” Carlyle said. “That’s in the medical people’s hands right now. We just have to wait for clearance from everybody involved to put the player back on the ice.”
- Terry Koshan of the Toronto Sun: Maple Leafs pending UFA Jonas Gustavsson is trying to not think that far ahead. “What’s going to happen next year is going to wait for a while.” Gustavsson was injured in the warmups and was unable to make the start. The Leafs may look to bring in a veteran goalie next year to work with James Reimer.
- Jeremy Rutherford via twitter: Blues forward Andy McDonald will return to the lineup on Saturday.
- Mike Chambers of the Denver Post: Avalanche forward Milan Hejduk is considering retiring after the season.
“It could be. I don’t want to analyze right now, but it definitely could be,” Hejduk said.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: (mailbag) Avs pending RFA Peter Mueller has been a healthy scratch for 2 games lately and would required a $2.2 million qualifying offer. Dater thinks they will likely qualify him, but it is possible they look to trade him.
- Andy Strickland of True Hockey: Sources are saying that the Red Wings have sent scouts to watch the remaining games of pending UFAs Ryan Suter and Zach Parise. The Wings could be leaning more towards Suter since Nicklas Lidstrom could retire or play only one more season. B.J. Crombeen has been out with a hand injury. Roman Polak could return on Saturday.
Ehrhoff day-to-day … Vinny returns … Price for Nash for Leafs would be steep …Isles sign Grahame … Howard out Friday
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Starting Goalies on March 29th, 2012
- John Vogl of the Buffalo News: Sabres defenseman Christian Ehrhoff was re-evaluated yesterday.
“He’ll miss some time,” said Ruff, who declined to elaborate whether it was day-to-day or week-to-week. “It’ll be a period of time.”
- Vincent Lecavalier via twitter: Vinny tweets he’s happy to get back in the lineup.
- Howard Berger via twitter: Given what the Blue Jackets wanted for Rick Nash at the trade deadline, it would cost the Leafs Jake Gardiner, Nazem Kadri and their 1st round pick in June.
- Steve Conroy of hte Boston Herald: Bruins goalie Tuukka Rask is progressing well from his March 3rd, groin/abdomen strain.
“I’m doing exercising, biking, all kinds of stuff. It’s looking really good. I’m just trying to get the strength back and be ready to go,” Rask said yesterday. “I think we’re shooting for (a return for the playoffs) and it’s looking good now.”
“If everything goes well, I’ll go out there and maybe get some shots, not do much but just go by the feel,” Rask said. “You can’t rush these kind of injuries.”
- Islanders Point Blank: The Islanders have signed John Grahame for the rest of the year to back up Al Montoya. Arthur Staple of Newsday: Evgeni Nabokov left Tuesday’s game and is listed day-to-day with a lower-body injury, it looks like he may not play another game this season.
- Ted Kulfan of the Detroit News: Red Wings Jimmy Howard won’t be in the lineup on Friday. Howard missed his 4th straight game on Wednesday with a groin issue.
“It’s Babs’ call and he’s the coach, he makes the decisions,” Howard said. “That (playing Friday) was the plan all along, but Coach has decided to go in a different direction, and as a player I have to respect that.
“I hope he changes his mind, but I don’t think it’ll happen.”
- Jonas Siegel via twitter: Ben Scrivens was recalled yesterday on a temporary basis and will be returned today. Jussi Rynnas will likely take his place. The Maple Leafs may have given Scrivens a day of NHL pay. He’s a big part of the Marlies AHL playoff run and they don’t want to disrupt that.
- Damian Cristodero via twitter: The Lightning have signed college free agent J.T. Brown from Minnesota-Duluth.
- George Richards of the Miami Herald: Jose Theodore will start in net for the Panthers tonight against the Wild.
Could change be coming for the Flames? Parenteau talks to start … Time running out for Hejduk, Morrow? Should Oils trade pick? Burke staying
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on March 28th, 2012
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: LeBrun thinks the Flames need to re-tool, if not a total rebuild. Flames GM Jay Feaster is giving this group one last chance. If it doesn’t work, changes are coming. They will have 6 UFA s and 3 RFA at the end of the season. Jarome Iginla will have one more year at $7 million, and would he want to be around for another rebuild? They may need to have a “heart to heart” with Iginla after the season.
- Arthur Staple of Newsday: Pending Islanders free agent P.A. Parenteau wants to remain with the club. Talks are likely to begin this week. Parenteau could be looking a deal in the $4 million per season range.
“I’ve said all along that I want to be here, and nothing’s changed,” he said. “I love these guys and I want to be here for when we turn it around.”
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Avalanche forward Milan Hejduk’s production has been non-existent in the 2nd half, and it could be the “the end of the line for the classy Avs captain.”
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: Stars captiain Brenden Morrow has been moved down to the 4th line, and his minutes have been reduced. He’s been dealing with injuries all year, and it’s affecting his play. Heika asks the question if Morrow’s time in Dallas is coming to an end? He doesn’t think so.
- David Staples of the Edmonton Journal: Former Lightning GM Brian Lawton said the Oilers should trade down in the draft.
“The time has come for the Edmonton Oilers to look to create another asset and if they do, in fact, end up with the number 2 pick, they should look to trade down. There are so many quality defencemen that are available. Morgan Reilly’s been injured this year but he’s out there. Mathew Dumba, very intriguing player. Ryan Murray, probably the top-rated guy in that group and, of course, the very last guy Griffin Reinhart.”
Marty McSorley said the Oilers should:
“Go out and draft the best player. … You can always make trades. You need assets, you need commodities within your organization.”
Fan voting: (as of 8:55 am on the 28th) 41.46 % – Draft the best player available, even if that’s a Russian forward. 35.79% – Trade it for as good a veteran defenseman as the team can get. 22.75% – Trade down a few spaces, then draft the best defenseman available.
- John Buccigross via twitter: Buccigross is hearing that college free agent J.T. Brown (UMD) is down to the Flyers, Bruins and Lightning.
- David Shoalts of the Globe and Mail: Someone within MLSE doesn’t expect any of the new ownership to demand that Brian Burke be fired as the Leafs GM before the end of the 2013-14 season.
“You have two choices: you can trust your general manager or you can fire your general manager,” the insider said. “At the end of the day, you can criticize [MLSE] for not hiring the right GM. But the decisions are made by the general manager. They really are. Brian Burke is running the show.”
“[Burke] can do pretty well what he wants. Brian has no shackles of any consequence at all.”
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