Posts Tagged Brad Richards
Pens and Wings may be favorites for Jagr … Stars still trying to trades Richards rights … Coyotes looking for a goalie … NHL Draft rumors
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Audio, NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on June 21st, 2011
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Jagr still hasn’t made a decision, and doesn’t know how long it will take. He said great things about Pittsburgh and Detroit.
- Will DePaoli via twitter: DePaoli hears it’s unlikely that the Penguins would go above $2 million a year for Jagr. Though they are intrigued with Jagr, they are not going to tie up cap space for a 39 year old at the expense of Kennedy and others. Though talks with Kennedy aren’t going well. DePaoli senses that Jagr’s first choice is Pittsburgh, Detroit doing a good sell job.
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: The Dallas Stars are still attempting to move Brad Richards rights,
“We continue to chip away here,” Stars GM Joe Nieuwendyk told ESPN.com on Tuesday. “Our intention is to move his rights and hope to do that prior to the draft here.”
Nieuwendyk wouldn’t give up much, but they may have an offer for Richards. They would have to convince Richards to waive his no-movement clause. The Stars would like to bring Jamie Langenbrunner back, but only a reasonable price. The Predators and Shea Weber continue to work on a new deal. They offered him salary arbitration, so no other team can give him an offer sheet. There hasn’t been any talks between Josh Gorges and the Montreal Canadiens. The Lightning and UFA Sean Bergenheim are not close.
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: Coyotes GM Don Maloney is making a list of his goalie options.
“There are several different options that we’re exploring, from young up-and-comers that are going to cost assets to acquire, to searching the UFA market to see who might be the right fit for us, to talking to some NHL teams,” Maloney told ESPN.com. “There’s three or four goaltenders that we might have interest in where the team in question might want to make a change. So really, the factors we’re looking at are acquisition cost, contract term, contract amount and age of the player.
“That’s all being evaluated and discussed. At some point, we’ll make a decision; at some point, we will have a goalie here. We’re just not there yet in regards to which way we want to go here.”
Goalies on his list could be free agents Tomas Vokoun, Jose Theodore, Marty Turco, JS Giguere, Ty Conklin, Mike Smith, Pascal Leclaire, Ray Emery, and Brian Boucher. On the trade side of things, Jonathan Bernier, Cory Schneider or Evgeni Nabokov. They are not close to signing any of their free agents which includes: UFAs Ed Jovanovski, Radim Vrbata, Vern Fiddler, and Eric Belanger, as well as RFAs Keith Yandle, Kyle Turris, Mikkel Boedker and Lauri Korpikoski.
- Dan Tencer via twitter: Oilers GM Tambellini said there has been some new trade talk regarding Sheldon Souray. A return to Edmonton is “not a likely scenario.”
- Andy Strickland via twitter: The Blues are looking to make a deal to improve their roster. Anybody is likely available except Pietrangelo, Stewart, Backes, and Berglund.
- Ryan Kennedy via twitter: 2 sources have told Kennedy that the Oilers could be looking to trade down from the 1st overall pick, with Florida a likely trade partner. Adrian Dater via twitter: Hearing chatter that Oilers and Panthers talking about swapping picks.
- Harvey Fialkov of the Sun-Sentinel: The Panthers are interested in drafting a center and would like to get there hands on Ryan Nugent-Hopkins if available, followed by Jonathan Huberdeau.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Dater thinks the Avalanche could draft Huberdeau at #2. Tomas Fleischmann still hasn’t been medically cleared, and the Avs haven’t said anything regarding his UFA status. Peter Mueller will be in training camp.
- Katie Strang of Newsday: The NY Islanders will draft the best player available at #5. GM Garth Snow,
“You don’t always know how it’s going to unfold,” Snow told Newsday in a recent telephone interview. “If there is an opportunity to trade up or down, we’d be open to anything like that.”
Blue Jackets want to trade and spend money this offseason … Avs could pass on Larsson … Ramsay interviews for his position
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 19th, 2011
Happy Father’s Day to all the dad’s out there.
- Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: The Blue Jackets are looking to move their 8th overall pick, and have money to spend on free agents. They could have traded Steve Mason to Philadelphia and others, but have decided to keep him for now. GM Scott Howson will look for a backup, but not one that may not initially challenge for the #1 spot. The Jackets need to add a player that could be on the top defensive pairing.
“We’re talking to a lot of teams about defensemen,” Howson said. “Certainly we’re going to get to free agency and see what’s there, too, but there are a number of avenues we might take. We’ve made it clear that we want to change our back end, but you can only do so much. If you don’t have a willing trade partner, and if the free agents aren’t what you thought they’d be, there’s not much you can do.”
Christian Ehrhoff, Andrei Markov, Ed Jovanovski, Tomas Kaberle, Kevin Bieksa and James Wisniewski. Mike Commodore is expected to be bought out. The Blue Jackets could also use a top 6 center. Howson tried to get Jeff Carter but that didn’t work out. Signing Brad Richards would be nice, but a really though sell. Tim Connolly could be an option for the Jackets. If they bring in a top center, Antoine Vermette could move to the wing. Scottie Upshall wants to stay but he’ll likely move on. They’ll look to add a 3rd line player. Portzline thinks that if someone offers a 4th round pick, a middling prospect or a veteran for Nikita Filatov, they’d send him packing.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Adam Larsson will likely be a top 4 pick in this year’s draft, and could be the pick for the Colorado Avalanche. Larsson may not come over to North America for next season. From his agent, “Our belief is we’ll stay another year or two in Sweden.” Dater thinks that if he wants to stay in Sweden next year, the Avs may not want to draft him.
- Erik Erlendsson via twitter: If the Lightning aren’t able to re-sign Eric Brewer, they could bring in Kevin Bieksa, Christian Ehrhoff, Roman Hamrlik or Tomas Kaberle.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: The Ottawa Senators would like to move up in the draft, they hold the 6th overall pick, and the Devils at #4 are said to be dangling the pick. The Sens are would rather trade one of their 3 2nd round pick instead of their 21st overall pick they acquired from Nashville. The Senators have tried to trade defenseman Sergei Gonchar and Filip Kuba with no luck so far. They look to sign a backup for Craig Anderson.
- Chris Vivlamore of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution: Winnipeg interviewed their coach Craig Ramsay yesterday, who has 1 year left on his contract. “It was a good talk,” Ramsay told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. “I enjoyed the conversation. There was no commitment and no timeline [for a hire]. Nothing has been decided.” GM Kevin Cheveldayoff has also interviewed Mike Haviland (CHI assistant), Claude Noel (AHL Manitoba), and Craig MacTavish.
- Matt Kalman of the Boston Herald: After Game 7 Mark Recchi said he’d be retiring, and several days of celebrating hasn’t changed his mind, “No, that’s it.” He’ll take some time off now and hopes to find a management position at some point.
- Jim Jamieson of the Vancouver Province: Tanner Glass is one of Vancouver UFAs that hopes to be able to return. 3 other UFA forwards for the Canucks are Chris Higgins, Raffi Torres and Jeff Tambellini. Chris Higgins has also said he’d like to be back.
Twitter NHL rumors and notes involving: Jagr, Weber, Parise, Richards, Bryzgalov and Canucks UFAs
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 18th, 2011
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Jaromir Jagr’s agent said he had more talks with the Red Wings yesterday and plans to have more talks with other teams.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Nashville elects salary arbitration with Shea Weber, the same goes for New Jersey and Zach Parise. Other teams are now prohibited from putting an offer sheet on Weber and Parise.
- Ryan Rishaug via twitter: Shea Weber’s side and the Predators talked late into the night last night trying to get an extension in place. Negotiations have been going on for 2 days.
- Erik Erlendsson via twitter: Erlendsson thinks there is a strong possibility that Steve Yzerman and the Lightning could be interested in Brad Richards.
- Tim Panaccio via twitter: Flyers GM Paul Holmgren and Ilya Bryzgalov have talked different scenarios and will talk again next week. Panaccio thinks they are close and will get a deal done, but they need to move out salary because of the tagging rules.
- Matthew Sekeres via twitter: Kevin Bieksa, Christian Ehrhoff and Sami Salo suggest they would take less to remain with the Canucks.
Richards says No to waiving NTC, would love to return to Tampa … Bryzgalov demanded a lot from the Coyotes … Oilers willing to trade 1st overall … Rangers to buyout Drury
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 9th, 2011
- Joey Johnston of the Tampa Tribune: Brad Richards never wanted to leave Tampa, and would love to return.
“I don’t know what they’re thinking as an organization,” said Richards, 31, who has played for the Dallas Stars since the Lightning shipped him away a few hours before the 2008 trade deadline. “If they’re going to talk to me, I’d definitely be interested.”
“Obviously, fitting in with Tampa wouldn’t be an issue because of my history here,” Richards said. “In this salary-cap world, you have to be aware of each organization’s dynamics. Maybe you couldn’t get top dollar (in Tampa) that you might get somewhere else, but you consider other things.
“I’ve got friends and people I play golf with who constantly hammer me about coming back to Tampa. Even if I tried, I couldn’t get it out of my mind. So yes, it’s there. I’d love to see it progress. But what’s going to happen? Who knows?”
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: The Dallas Stars asked Brad Richards if he would waive his no trade clause, but he said no at the advice of his agent.
“He asked in late May, and it was not a situation that was good for us, and so we said no,” Morris said of Stars GM Joe Nieuwendyk. “He hasn’t asked again, but he understands that we would have to be aware of the situation and it would have to be a situation that would be one where we can see some benefit.”
The teams interested in Richards (Leafs, Rangers, Kings, possibly the Sabres and Blue Jackets ) don’t have to deal with salary cap issues. With the Flyers acquiring Bryzgalov with the hope of signing him, they will need the time before July 1st to make some other moves to fit him in under the cap.
- Scott Bordow of the Arizona Republic: It’s clear that Ilya Bryzgalov didn’t want to return to the Coyotes. He knew they wouldn’t be able to afford the $7 million he wants. With their payroll likely to be around $50 million next year, if they gave Bryzgalov big money they wouldn’t be able to re-sign some of their free agents, including Keith Yandle. Coyotes GM Don Maloney has talked about adding a goalie through trade or free agency. Marty Turco could be a stop gap goalie for them.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Ilya Bryzgalov’s contract demands with the Phoenix Coyotes were off the charts according to a source.
- Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: If the Flyers are able to come to terms with Ilya Bryzgalov they might have to deal Matt Carle or Jeff Carter, and possibly not re-signing Ville Leino.
“We still have intentions of trying to re-sign Ville . . . but you can only do so much,” Holmgren said. “We’re trying to have the best team available. We’ll see what we can do.”
Bryzgalov is reportedly looking for a 4-5 year deal worth at least $5 million. The Flyers currently have 18 players signed for almost $59 million for next year.
- Chris Johnston in the Globe and Mail: Oilers GM Steve Tambellini is open to trading the 1st overall pick in this year’s draft. He has had discussions with some teams about a possible trade.
“I’ve had a few calls (from) people kicking the tires of how they can help me make the Oilers a better team,” Tambellini said Wednesday after the NHL’s GMs meeting. “For me to move the No. 1 pick it would have to be obviously something exceptional. Because this is a huge building block again for us.
“These couple years here are exactly the time that we have to put pieces in place that are going to be part of the Oilers success for a long time. It would have to be something quite sweet.”
- Jesse Spector of the NY Daily News: The NY Rangers are planning on buying out the last season of Chris Drury’s contract. Buying Drury out will save the team $3.3 million against the cap this year, $1.6 million next year. They also are likely to buy out Wojtek Wolski, saving another $3.3 million next year, $666,667 in 2012-12. The Rangers have 7 restricted free agents, most notably Ryan Callahan and Brandon Dubinsky.
- Paul Friesen of the Winnipeg Sun: Free agent Andrew Ladd is a top priority of Winnipeg’s new GM Kevin Cheveldayoff. “Andrew’s going to be one of my first phone calls,” new GM Kevin Cheveldayoff said, Wednesday. “He is a big, big piece of this franchise.”
- Adam L Jahns of the Chicago Sun-Times: Blackhawks GM Stan Bowman said there are no deals imminent with Chris Campoli, Michael Frolik, Viktor Stalberg, and Troy Brouwer. Bowman also added that he’s OK with going into the season with Corey Crawford and Alexander Salak in net. He also expects trade talks to heat up after the Stanley Cup.
- Chris Johnston in the Globe and Mail: Senators GM Bryan Murray is getting closer to making a decision on their new coach. “I just have to have a second interview with two or three of them and then make a decision.” Stars GM Joe Nieuwendyk hopes to have his new coach soon. “It’s going well, we’ve met some impressive candidates,” said Nieuwendyk. “Ideally, I’d like to have it done before the draft. But certainly before free agency (opens July 1).” Wild GM Chuck Fletcher is thinking along the same lines as Nieuwendyk. “In a perfect world, you have guy in case you make a trade at the draft or for free agency he may have insight into a player,” said Fletcher. “He might have a player he absolutely doesn’t like or a style of player that he prefers. So if you’re filling out a certain role on your third or fourth line — let’s be honest, if the coach has a strong opinion on something I’d rather go with that player.”
Maple Leafs may not be interested in acquiring Richards rights … Oilers and Flyers looking at #8 … Alfie to have surgery … Ramsay may be out as Jets coach
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 8th, 2011
- Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun: Hornby says there is no indications that the Maple Leafs are close to acquiring Brad Richards or that he’ll waive his NTC before July 1st. The NY Daily News is saying the Leafs will be trying to acquire his rights to get a jump on negotiations. GM Brian Burke has said in the past that he doesn’t like giving up assets just to talk. If Burke can’t acquire a top line center through free agency, he’ll look at trade options. NY Post is saying that Richards would like to re-unite with John Tortorella, but with an asking price of $7 million, it may be too much for the Rangers.
- David Shoalts of the Globe and Mail: Burke is working the phones, laying the groundwork to move up in the 2011 NHL entry draft. He’s said for awhile that he’d like to package a 1st and 2nd round pick to move up. One of the problems is that there is competition to move up into top 15. The Blackhawks have 2 2nd round picks that they could include. He’d like to sign Richards, but won’t trade for his rights. He could make a trade for a No. 1 center but there is no clear target at this point. Richards will be looking for a 6-8 year deal worth upwards of $8 million per season. He’s 31 and coming off a concussion and hip issues. The Leafs would only be interested at less years and less money.
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: The Blue Jackets have talked with the Oilers and Flyers about the 8th overall pick. They have likely talked with other teams as well.
- Allen Panzeri of the Ottawa Citizen: Daniel Alfredsson had been attempting to avoid back surgery, but on Friday he’ll have surgery to correct a a nerve problem. Recovery is usually 4-6 weeks.
“He felt that to continue his career at the level he wants to, it’s the right thing to do,” said Murray. “It was a decision that he … was hoping he wouldn’t have to have.
“But the fact that the nerve … is affecting the muscle, in particular on the left side of his body in the hip area, he felt it was the right thing.”
- Slava Malamud via twitter: (Before the trade) Someone close to Ilya Bryzgalov may have leaked info involving the Capitals, creating ‘Bryzgalov-to-the-Caps’ rumors. Sport-Express reports that Bryzgalov is not talking with SKA and is looking at the Flyers, Lightning, and Capitals.
- CP in the Globe and Mail: The NHL returning to Quebec City as some point have taken a hit from political delays and legal threats.
“The optimal conditions for ensuring the return of a National Hockey League team are no longer aligned and the extra delays could compromise the ultimate objective,” Quebecor head Pierre Karl Peladeau said in a statement.
- David Pasgnotta via twitter: “Sounds like Craig Ramsay might not be back as Thrashers/whatever head coach next season. Cheveldayoff, expected GM, will bring in his own.”
Richards has no intention of waiving NTC despite Leafs rumors … Stars offered Richards 3 and 4 year deals … Caps could shop Varlamov … Alfie to have surgery
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 7th, 2011
- Jesse Spector of the NY Daily News: “The Stars have not asked Brad to waive his no-trade clause, and at this point in time, he has no intention of doing so,” agent Pat Morris told the Daily News when told of a source saying the Maple Leafs could make a deal with the Stars. “We’re still pointing toward July 1.” According to the source, “It’s legit” and “Toronto is desperate for a star like this.” The source added that the Maple Leafs felt close enough to a deal, that they have other deals in place to clear up some cap space. Richards has a no trade clause and his agent sees no reason to do a deal without letting other teams bid for his services. Morris said they could possibly consider a deal, but hadn’t heard of any trade that Nieuwendyk was working on.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: According to a source, Richards received offers from the Stars at the trade deadline of either Joe Thornton’s or Patrick Marleau’s contract. Thornton received a 3 year deal worth $21 million, a $7 million cap hit. Marleau received a 4 year contract worth $27.6 million, a $6.9 million cap hit. Tom Gaglardi’s offer to buy the Stars could be finished by the end of the week. All sides would then have to have “pre-packaged bankruptcy hearing,” which could take 30 days or longer to complete.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: Nieuwendyk doesn’t have the Stars budget for next season yet, but expects it to be higher than the $47 million from last season. They currently have 17 players under contract for approximately $38 million.
“I think our first hurdle is to find out what our budget will be, and we should know that soon,” Nieuwendyk said. “But by [the lenders] giving us the ability to go out and sign Brad, it says that our payroll will be higher, so we’ll have some money to play with.
“We’re looking at free agency, we have our list and the guys initially we want to target. There’s money to be spent and players to go get.”
The Stars could use a scoring winger or two, and a top defenseman.
“I think we need a top-six forward,” Nieuwendyk said. “Maybe we get there through trade, too. I think the opportunity through trade is probably a more likely scenario than overpaying through free agency.”
- Michael Arace of the Columbus Dispatch: The Blue Jackets need to send a message to fans, and make a move to improve the team. GM Scott Howson is dangling the 8th overall pick in this year’s draft for immediate help. They need to make a bold move to acquire top line forward or defenseman. Will he find a center for Rick Nash? Does he include Jake Voracek in a deal?
- Katie Carrera of the Washington Post: Semyon Varlamov is a RFA and the Capitals could use his upside as part of a trade this season. The Caps have 2 other young goalies in Michal Neuvirth and Braden Holtby. Varlamov could be number 1 goalie in the NHL, but he has had injury issues in the past. He’s said he’d like to stay in Washington, his agent has said that KHL teams are interested.
- Don Brennan of the Ottawa Sun: Reports are saying that Senators captain Daniel Alfredsson will have back surgery, recovery time is said to be 4 to 6 weeks. Alfredsson appeared in only 54 games this past season as he was bothered by back issues. The Sens are “99% certain” that they will keep the 6th overall pick in the draft. They will likely pick one of Sean Couturier, Ryan Strome, Mika Zibanejad, Gabriel Landeskog, Jonathan Huberdeau or possibly Dougie Hamilton.
Blues may be shutout for UFA’s … Jackets dangling #8 … Richards rumors … Flyers should go after Thomas again … Leafs were in on Erixon
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 6th, 2011
- Roger Hensley of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: Jeremy Rutherford notes that until the Blues are sold or new investors are brought in, they can’t afford a “legitimate” free agent goal scorer. With the free agent crop a little week, Blues fans shouldn’t expect them to be as active as they may like. Dan O’Neill doesn’t think a goal scorer is the Blues biggest off-season need. Andy Strickland thinks the Blues could explore the trade market. They would have to shed some salary if they were to take on a player like Paul Stastny.
- Larry Brooks of USA Today: Brad Richards will likely be looking for a long term deal at $7+ million a season, which may be more than the Rangers want to do. Richards may take less to return to Tampa. The Rangers could look at Jason Spezza who has 3 years at a $7 million cap hit, though he has a no-trade clause and the Sens may want too much in return. Stephen Weiss will also draw the Rangers interest. The Rangers were interested in Patrick Sharp last year, but he may not be available and/or would require a lot. Brandon Dubinsky wants a multi-year deal at $4.5 million per season.
- Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: The scouting department for the Columbus Blues Jackets is likely to be completely reconfigured after the draft at the end of the month. Most of their scouts contracts expire at the end of the month, and their contracts haven’t been renewed. If the Blues Jackets are going to trade their 8th overall pick at this year’s draft, don’t rule out the Flyers as an interested partner. Both GM’s have talked on and off since early last year.
- Chuck Gormley of the Delco Times: Gormley thinks the Flyers should go after Tim Thomas again this off-season. Over a year ago the Bruins wanted Jeff Carter in return for Thomas. Both teams don’t have a lot of free cap space. The Flyers could send Matt Carle and his $3.4 million salary but it would take more. They don’t have a 1st or 2nd round pick this year. Gormley thinks Carle and Kris Versteeg could get the deal done.
- Damian Cristodero of the St. Petersburg Times: Could the Tampa Bay Lightning fit Brad Richards in even though they need to re-sign RFA Steven Stamkos and possibly UFA Eric Brewer? The Lightning have $38.37 million tied up in 11 players and buyouts. Free agents they may want to re-sign are Sean Bergenheim, Teddy Purcell, Dwayne Roloson and Mike Smith. Yzerman could also make some trades to free up some salary. If Simon Gagne would take a nice pay cut from the $5.25 million he made last season, they may be more willing to re-sign him. If they don’t re-sign Gagne, they could use that money towards Richards.
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: If the dollar amount and term get out of hand for Brad Richards, Stephen Weiss could be plan B for the NY Rangers. The Red Wings could be an option for Richards if he’s interested in a short-term, cap friendly number. The Rangers, Kings and Leafs will likely be offering more.
- Eric Francis of the Calgary Herald: According to Maple Leafs source, they were in on Tim Erixon trade talks with the Flames before he was traded to the NY Rangers. Francis thinks the Sharks should go after UFA Kevin Bieksa. Bieksa is “most apt” to take a hometown discount to remain with the Canucks. Christian Ehrhoff will likely go after the most money, and it’s unlikely the Bruins will want to re-sign Tomas Kaberle.
Richards would be interested in Lightning … Malhotra should be good for Game 2 … Leafs working out 40 top draft prospects … Penguins could trade free agents
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 4th, 2011
- Damian Cristodero of the St. Petersburg Times: Both Brad Richards and his agent indicated that they listen to offers from the Lightning if they came calling.
“I never really wanted to leave Tampa,” Richards told the St. Petersburg Times. “So, obviously, on July 1, if they talk to me, it’s going to be something I’ll listen to because of my history there.”
“Brad is going to examine all his options, but it is clear and is publicly known that he didn’t want to leave Tampa,” his agent, Pat Morris, said. “If Tampa likes him, he’s certainly going to listen to what they have to say, among many, many other teams, I’m sure.”
- Iain MacIntyre of the Vancouver Sun: Manny Malhotra is still listed as day-to-day, but he should be able to go for today’s Game 2. Timing and conditioning are the main issues now. He’ll been his face-off and penalty killing ability is he’s able to go.
“I’ll see how I feel after the morning skate and we’ll make a decision,” Malhotra said. “I didn’t want this to be a sideshow. We always talk about in our dressing room that the whole is much greater than the individuals. We have a very strong focus in the room. It’s where it needs to be and I don’t want anything to sidetrack that.”
- Josh Cooper of the Tennessean: Predators defenseman Shane O’Brien is a UFA and will likely be looking for a raise from the $1.6 million he made last year. With the Preds having a deep farm systems for defenseman, having to pay Shea Weber and a few others, they may not have the money to re-sign him.
- Rob Longley of the Toronto Sun: The Maple Leafs will be working out 40 of the top 100 draft eligible players will they are in town for the combine. “We’ve got a bunch of kids coming for a quick follow-up for us,” Morrison said as Friday’s physical testing was getting under way. “They will do a quick medical and what we call a fitness assessment to augment what they are doing here. There will be a lot of stretching and balance exercises. What we do is something a little different just to help us to get a better picture.” The Leafs have 2 1st round picks and 1 2nd. According to head scout Dave Morrison,
“Brian has said it publicly: If we can (move up) to get somebody we want, we will do it. But by the same token, if it’s not there and we don’t make a deal we will be quite happy to pick with the picks that we have.”
“You have to take the best player because even though players are making it quicker now than they did perhaps years ago, but normally it takes a guy a few years to get there and by that time our needs may have changed.”
- Will DePaoli via twitter: Both forward Craig Adams and Penguins GM Ray Shero want to get a deal done, but talks are quiet this week.
- Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: Penguins GM Ray Shero will look at all “available options via trade” for his UFA and RFA’s that aren’t signed by the Draft. The Pens currently have 17 players under contract at almost $56 million. Evgeni Malkin should be ready for training camp.
- Chris Botta of NYI Point Blank: NY Islanders prospect Kirill Petrov will play at least 1 more year in Russia. Petrov was a 3rd round pick in 2008.
Stars not making contract offer to Richards … No suspension for Burrows … Pens cautiously optimistic on Crosby … Caps make small trade
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on June 2nd, 2011
Bob McKenzie via twitter: Due to the Dallas ownership situation not likely to be resolved until later this summer, the Stars won’t be making a contract offer to Brad Richards. Dallas would be interested in trading his rights, but Richards has a no movement clause, so may not happen. Dennis Bernstein via twitter: Bernstein wonders why would Richards sign before July 1st knowing that big offers are coming.
Bob McKenzie via twitter: Kirk Muller is in Dallas and is being interviewed for their head coaching position.
Darren Dreger via twitter: NHL disciplinarian Mike Murphy has spoke with Alex Burrows informally, no hearing. No official saw the incident.
Rob Rossi via twitter: The Penguins are “cautiously optimistic” that Sidney Crosby will be ready for “normal activity by training camp.”
James Mirtle via twitter: The Washington Capitals have traded for LWer Taylor Stefishen from the Nashville Predators for a conditionals 2013 draft pick. Joshua Cooper via twitter: Condition is that if Stefishen signs an NHL contract in the next 2 seasons.
Winnipeg press conference for 11 am Central, 12 pm Eastern … Lightning off-season notes … Panthers sign Skille
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News on May 31st, 2011
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: An announcement will be made at 11 am Central time regarding the Thrashers move to Winnipeg, pending Board of Governor’s approval. Sean Fitz-Gerald via twitter: NHL network is carrying the press conference at 11 am Central, 12 pm Eastern. Bob McKenzie via twitter: Winnipeg will play out of the Southeast Division in the Eastern Conference next season, and realignment will happen the year after. No decision on team name yet, ownership may be moving away from the “Jets” name, but public support for “Jets” is only reason they may be still undecided.
- Jim Jamieson of the Vancouver Province: Christian Ehrhoff and Aaron Rome will be in the lineup for Game 1. Ehrhoff suffered what looked to be a shoulder injury in Game 3 against the Sharks. Rome was dazed in Game 3 after a hit from behind.
- The Fourth Period: Steven Stamkos’s agent told The Fourth Period that he’ll be discussing a multi-year deal with the Lightning “in the near future.” They could work on a 5 year deal.
- Erik Erlendsson of the Tampa Tribune answered numerous questions on twitter yesterday about the Tampa Bay Lightning. Chances are slim that the Lightning re-sign Simon Gagne, Eric Brewer a notch above that. It’s believed that it’s taking so long to get Steven Stamkos re-signed because of the lack of CBA beyond next year is a factor in term/salary structure. Erlendsson thinks a Stamkos’ deal will be longer than 5 years, and less than $8 million. Lightning off-season needs are to find a mobile defenseman, goaltending, and a power play quarterback. He thinks that Dwayne Roloson will return next season as their starter. “It’s always possible” that Brad Richards returns to Tampa. Erlendsson thinks that both Teddy Purcell and Sean Bergenheim will re-sign with the team.
- Genadi Boguslavski via twitter: Two Canadiens players have signed with Barys Astana of the KHL, Nigel Dawes and Justin Boyd.
- Slava Malamud (of Sport Express) via twitter: SKA of the KHL offered Jaromir Jagr a 1 year deal woth $4.5 million according to a Czech Republic report. SKA is officially denying the offer.
- Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: The Penguins won’t be signing 2009 draft picks, center Andy Bathgate and Dman Viktor Ekbom. Bathgate was a 5th round pick and recorded 60 point in 64 games with Belleville of the OHL. He’s missed a lot of time with a shoulder injury the last 2 1/2 years. Ekbom was a 6th round pick, recording 8 assists in 96 games the last 2 seasons with Linkoping in Sweden’s Eletserien. Both will re-enter the draft.
- Ken Warren of the Ottawa Citizen: The Senators signed prospects Jakub Silfverberg and Louie Caporusso to entry level deals yesterday. Silfverberg was a 2nd round pick in 2009, and Caporusso was playing at the University of Michigan.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: The Panthers have re-signed Jack Skille to a 2 year deal with a $825,000 cap hit.
Recchi to retire if Bruins win the Cup … Red Wings off-season options … Could Rangers look at Weiss
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 30th, 2011
- Ben Kuzma of the Vancouver Pronvince: If the Bruins win the Stanley Cup, Mark Recchi will retire.
“Yes, I will,” Recchi said Sunday from Boston as his Bruins prepare for Game 1 of the Stanley Cup final Wednesday against the Vancouver Canucks. “If we win, there’s definitely no doubt I’m going to walk away. I want to stay in the game and work with a general manager and learn the development side of the game. I think I understand some parts as a player.”
- Kevin Paul Dupont of the Boston Globe: Rumors are that the Red Wings will use the $6 million from the retired Brian Rafalski to go after Predators Dman Shea Weber, though Dupont thinks the Predators would match. The salary cap could be going up around 6-7%, from $59.4 million to around $63.5 million.
- George Sipple of the Detroit Free Press: Red Wings defenseman Jonathan Ericasson doesn’t really want to test the free agent market this summer and would rather re-sign with the Red Wings.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Matheson thinks the Canucks should sign Kevin Bieksa over Christian Ehrhoff. Matheson proposes a trade and wonders if the Flames would do it, Devin Setoguchi and Jason Demers for Robyn Regehr.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Matheson thinks the wings need to get younger to push Todd Bertuzzi and Tomas Holmstrom. Jiri Hudler may be trade bait. The best free agent options for them could be Brooks Laich and Ville Leino, with Alex Tanguay as a possibility. WHL MVP and recently signed goalie Darcy Kuemper will likely start next season in the AHL. The Wild could go with German goalie Dennis Endras as Niklas Backstom’s backup, letting Jose Theodore and Josh Harding go as UFA’s. Matheson thinks the Wild should trade Backstrom and keep Theodore, but his $6 million price tag makes it extremely difficult.
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: Brooks wonders if the NY Rangers are unable to bring in Brad Richards, they might look to Florida and Stephen Weiss.
Roloson to start … Thornton played with separated shoulder … Red Wings options … Leafs and Richards … A Souray buyout coming?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on May 25th, 2011
- Darren Dreger via twitter: “Sorry Wpg, it’s inching closer, but there still is no firm deal with ASG and there will not be an announcement today. From a key source.” Bob McKenzie via twitter: “As for WPG, principals still grinding out detail work. Hearing Thurs as earliest possible date for announcement, perhaps Fri or later.”
- Martin Fennelly of the Tampa Tribune: Dwayne Roloson will be between the pipes for Tampa Bay in Game 6.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Joe Thornton played last night with a separated shoulder.
- Brian Ted Kulfan of the Detroit News: Brian Rafalski will retire at an 11 am press conference. The Wings now have an extra $6 million to work with this summer. Possible free agent defenseman the Red Wings could look at are Canucks Kevin Bieksa, Sami Salo and Christian Ehrhoff, Joni Pitkanen (Car), Tomas Kaberle (Bos), Ed Jovanovski (Pho), Eric Brewer (TB) and Scott Hannan (Was). RFA’s that would require multiple 1st round picks in an offer are Drew Doughty and Shea Weber.
- Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: If Nicklas Lidstrom returns to the Red Wings, he’ll join Niklas Kronwall, Brad Stuart, and Jakub Kindl. Jonathan Ericsson might be brought back as they have a bit more financial flexibility with Rafalski retiring, but they won’t overpay for him. Ruslan Salei is likely done with the Wings. 2007 1st round pick Brendan Smith has a shot at making the team. They could bring in 35 year old Ed Jovanovski to eat up minutes. Kevin Bieksa could be another option, as well as Joni Pitkanen, Sami Salo, Eric Brewer, Tomas Kaberle, Bryan McCabe and Roman Hamrlik.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Lidstom will let the Red Wings know of his plan to retire or to come back again likely before the NHL draft.
- Damien Cox of the Toronto Star: The Maple Leafs want to be in the Brad Richards sweepstakes. It has been suggested that Burke could possibly offer a deal in the 7 or 8 year range, which goes against his usual philosophy. Richards could get more than $7 million, possibly up to $8 million. The Rangers or Kings might consider offering more. Without having an owner and coach in place, it would be difficult for Nieuwendyk to re-sign Richards. The Leafs could look to acquire his rights before July 1st, but not if it requires them to send Nazem Kadri the other way.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: The Oilers are considering options again with regards to defenseman Sheldon Souray. He’s still owed $4.5 million with a $5.4 million cap hit. They could buy him out after June 15th for 2/3′s salary, cap hit spread out over 2 years. He could also be sent to the minors. The Oilers are still pursuing Swedish goalie Viktor Fasth and are interested in Finnish Dman Ville Lajunen. Zach Stortini could be traded by the entry draft.
- Will DePaoli via twitter: The Penguins have yet to contact Arron Asham about a possible contract.
- Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post Dispatch: Blues forward David Perron is making some progress with his post-concussion syndromes.
“We’ve talked to David, and he’s feeling better, but he’s not at the point where he’s coming back to St. Louis to take the necessary tests before he can train,” Blues general manager Doug Armstrong said. “He’s taking small steps ahead, but not to the point where he has passed his tests to begin his summer training program.”
Armstrong had said that if Perron still have symptoms in July, they would have to plan to start the season without him.
Rangers should offer pick for Richards … Avs goalie options … Penguins start negotiations … Flames hope to re-sign Tanguay … Gunnarson could be trade bait
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 24th, 2011
- Greg Brady via twitter: Sources tell Brady the earliest the Stanley Cup Finals would start would be next Monday. There will be no games on this Saturday regardless.
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: If the Rangers wait until July 1st to go after Brad Richards, they’ll have steep competition in Toronto and Los Angeles, and the price may go up. Brooks thinks the Rangers should make an offer to the Stars before July 1st, so Richards an get acquainted with the organization, and they could get full info on his concussion this past season. Brooks thinks the Rangers should offer the Stars a 2nd round pick (#57) for Richards.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Dater doesn’t think the Avalanche will offer any a goalie a contract in the $5-6 million per season range. Free agent goalies in that range are Ilya Bryzgalov and Tomas Vokoun. Other possible goalies could be: Josh Harding – risky, JS Giguere – too many miles, Marty Turco – no thanks, Chris Osgood – pass. The trade route could be an option but comes with a price: Jonathan Quick, Jonathan Bernier, or Cory Schneider – all expensive. If they go after Vokoun, Dater would only offer a 3 year deal worth $10 million. Peter Budaj won’t be back, and they can’t go into the season hoping Brian Elliott is the answer.
- Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: The Penguins have started negotiations with free agents Pascal Dupuis and Mike Rupp. Dupuis, 32, had a cap hit of $1.4 million last year. Rupp, 31, had a $825,000.
- Will DePaoli via twitter: The Penguins have begun talks with Craig Adams. Nothing is imminent but it’s possible that they could get a deal done this week.
- Vicki Hall of the Calgary Herald: Flames GM Jay Feaster said on the radio yesterday that he has confidence the Flames will re-sign winger Alex Tanguay. “We believe we can,” the general manager said on NHL Live. “We do want to get him signed.” Tanguay signed a 1 year deal worth $1.7 million last year, and recorded 22 goals and 69 points. The Flames have 17 players under contract for next year with a cap hit of $55.8 million with an expected cap around $62.2 million. Ales Kotalik and his $3 million salary could be off to the minors next season. The future of Niklas Hagman and his $3 million is also in doubt. The Flames hope to re-sign backup goalie Henrik Karlsson. They have 4 UFA defenseman, Anton Babchuk ($1.4 million), Adam Pardy ($700,000), Steve Staios ($2.7 million) and Brett Carson ($500,000). Brendan Mikkelson ($687,500) is a RFA.
- Damien Cox of the Toronto Star: With the strong play of Maple Leafs prospects Jesse Blacker (Owen Sound) and Jake Gardiner, Carl Gunnarson could be vulnerable as Brian Burke continue to look for a number 1 center.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: St. Louis Blues prospect Vladimir Tarasenko has decided to spend another year in the KHL. Update: “Sibir GM tells SovSport the Blues made an “exclusive offer” to Tarasenko “like no other…guaranteeing he’d play.” “Sibir GM to Sovsport about the Blues’ offer to Tarasenko: “We had no idea the Blues wanted [Tarasenko] to come so bad. But it’d be better for him to play 1 more year in Russia before moving to the NHL.”
- Joe Yerdon via twitter: Doug Weight is expected to announce his retirement today.
Bergeron needs medical clearance … Contract talks for Gorges and Markov next … Coaching candidates
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 19th, 2011
- Steve Conroy of the Boston Bruins: Patrice Bergeron just needs medical clearance before he can get back in the Bruins lineup. He took contact at yesterday’s practice, and will take part in this mornings practice before deciding if he’s in or not. He’d most likely center Mark Recchi and Brad Marchand. Shawn Thornton would likely be the odd man out. Tyler Seguin would likely remain with Chris Kelly and Michael Ryder.
- Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: If Drew Miller is back with the Red Wings next year or not, it will come down to price. He made $650,000 this past season, and was a valuable penalty killer. He added 10 goals and 8 assists in 67 games. “Hopefully we can work something out. I’d definitely like to stay — I mean, it’s a great organization here. They have a lot of depth, but that’s what happens when you have a good team.”
- Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette: The Canadiens now have 3 defenseman under contract for next season, Alexei Yemelin, PK Subban and Jaroslav Spacek. Negotiations for Josh Gorges and Andrei Markov are next. Because of the salary cap, it’s unlikely that James Wisniewski or Brent Sopel will be back. Hal Gill and Roman Hamrlik could be back at the right price.
- Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune Review: Salary cap issues could prevent the Penguins from re-signing Tyler Kennedy. They’d like to keep him, but the RFA may be in the $1.5 – $2 million range. He had 21 goals and 45 points last season. Kennedy could be traded before the team has to send him a qualifying offer.
- Tony Marinaro via twitter: Bob Boughner stepped down as the Blue Jackets assistant coach. Marinaro is hearing that Florida or Dallas could be possible teams he could coach.
- Rich Hammond of the LA Kings Insider: Oscar Moller update. He’s expected to sign 2 year deal with a team in Sweden, and the Kings would almost certain retain the RFA’s rights. To retain his rights they would just have to extend a qualifying offer by June 27th.
- Andy Strickland of True Hockey: Dave Cameron (Mississauga OHL head coach) is being strongly considered as the next Ottawa Senators head coach. Minnesota and Florida are possible destinations for former NY Islanders head coach Scott Gordon. A source tells Strickland to not completely write off Brad Richards to Tampa. Strickland (and myself) doesn’t see it happening. A $4-5 million price tag for Jaromir Jagr could be a hefty price if a potential 3rd line NHL winger. Strickland is told that Mike Modano will officially retire at some point this off-season. Chris Osgood could do the same.
Richards being patient … Lydman has surgery, Sutton struggled … Sabres could use a veteran D … Quick playoff notes
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News on May 4th, 2011
- Mark Stepneski of the ESPN Dallas: Brad Richards is being patient with his decision to hit the free agent market on July 1st.
“Right now there is no deadline in sight because July 1 is so far away,” Richards said. “It’s try to get my body back to normal, relax and think things over and give it a chance over there in Dallas to see what happens with ownership. It sounds like things are moving a little bit right now. We’ll see. Sometimes you hear things differently than what’s actually happening. At least there is some movement and talk.”
The Stars could have a new owner, Tom Gaglardi, by early June.
“When it’s closer to a deadline or a time where you have to make a decision, that might be a time to think about what’s going to happen in the future,” he said. “Right now, there are no worries in my mind to do anything because there is no rush.”
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Anaheim Ducks defenseman Toni Lydman had surgery to repair a torn labrum on his right shoulder. It’s expected to be a 5 month recovery, so he might not be ready for the start of the season. He had been playing with the injury for over 2 months.
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Ducks defenseman Andy Sutton,
“It was the worst year of my career,” he said. ”It was frustrating. Really, I think I just didn’t really recover after I had the hand surgery. I felt like I was constantly slipping down the mountain, couldn’t regain my footing and lost a lot of confidence. It sort of left me not playing like myself.”
It’s likely he’ll be back the with the Ducks next season, he’s owed $2.25 million. It would be tough finding a trade partner, and he’d be owed $750,000 for the next 2 seasons if they were to buy him out.
- Jesse Spector of the NY Daily News: NY Rangers defenseman Michael Del Zotto had surgery to repair a sports hernia. He should be ready by training camp.
- Jerry Sullivan of the Buffalo News: The Sabres new owner Terry Pegula seems to understands the importance of veteran defenseman, and maybe he’ll provide the funds to enable them to bring in someone. Potential UFA’s are James Wisniewski, Tomas Kaberle, Kevin Bieksa and Christian Ehrhoff. The Canucks likely won’t be able to afford both Bieksa and Ehrhoff.
- Randy Phillips of the Montreal Gazette: Mathieu Darche is 1 of 9 UFA’s for the Montreal Canadiens,
“It’s been 10 years that I’ve ended a season with a question mark over my head,” the 34-year-old forward said. “Obviously, I want to be back, but at this point it’s not entirely in my control.
“I’ll see what they have to say and I’m sure we’ll talk soon,” he added. “That’s where it is right now. We’ll deal with it as it comes.”
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: The San Jose Sharks switched up their lines at practice yesterday, though not sure if they will be the same for today’s game. Couture-Thornton-Setoguchi and Clowe-Marleau-Heatley.
- Frank Seravalli via twitter: Flyers Jeff Carter, Michael Leighton, Andreas Nodl and Chris Pronger are all listed as day-to-day.
- Elliotte Friedman via twitter: Bruins defenseman Adam McQuaid is listed as day-to-day with a sprained neck according to Claude Julien.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: The City of Glendale has paid $25 million to cover a portion of the losses for the Coyotes.
Winger for Malkin? Crosby to be ready for camp … Less money for Doughty … A deal for Crawford at the Draft … Will Umberger want to return?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 2nd, 2011
- Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: The Penguins have 3 areas to address this off-season. 1. Hire a power play coach. 2. Find a winger for Evgeni Malkin. 3. Upgrade secondary skill. The Penguins have 17 players under contract for next year at just over $55.4 million. They’ll need to add 6 players for under $7 million.
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: Shero on Crosby,
“He’s certainly going to be ready for camp,” Pens GM Ray Shero told ESPN.com Saturday. “He had really ramped it up before taking a week off. I know you don’t totally know with these things, but Dr. Collins has maintained the whole time that this is a manageable injury and that Sid will be fine. He’s got lots of time now.”
Chris Drury has a no movement clause so he won’t be sent to the minors which had been rumored last week. What the Sabres could be looking for this off-season, “If we can add a little more offense, we need a bit more,” Regier said. “And maybe someone who can add a little experience on the back end because we’re a little young there.” Senators GM Bryan Murray will start their coaching search next week, he already has about 6 applicants.
- Dan Arritt of ESPN Los Angeles: LA Kings defenseman Drew Doughty struggled this past season when comparing to his 2009-10 campaign, and it might hit him in the pocket book. “The drop-off could wind up costing Doughty some dough if he stays with the Kings. He’ll be a restricted free agent on July 1 and free to accept offer sheets from other teams, though the Kings have the right to match.” The Kings also have Alec Martinez, Trevor Lewis, Oscar Moller, Wayne Simmonds and Brad Richardson as RFA’s. It’s likely that Moller will be the only one not returning. The Kings will also likely to take a run at Brad Richards. There were interested in him at the deadline but the Stars where still in the playoff hunt.
- Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun: Simmons wonders is the Maple Leafs could sign one of Shea Weber, Steven Stamkos or Drew Doughty to an offer sheet, costing them 4 1st round picks. The Phoenix Coyotes lost $36.6 million this past season.
- Eric Francis of the Calgary Sun: The Blackhawks and Corey Crawford will get a deal done at the draft. They are expected to offer deals in the 2,3, and 4 year range. There are rumors that the Canadiens could bury Scott Gomez and his $7.3 million cap hit in the minors next year.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Matheson wouldn’t be surprised if Alex Kovalev is in the KHL next year. Canadiens forward Lars Eller played Game 7 with a dislocated shoulder. Matheson doesn’t see the Bruins re-signing Tomas Kaberle unless he “gets his act in gear.”
- Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: RJ Umberger’s contract expires at the end of next season, and can start negotiating with the Blue Jackets after July 1st, but will he want to re-sign with the team. When asked about if he has concerns about the teams direction,
“That’s an important question for me to ask myself,” he said. “It’s something I need to consider. You only have so many years to play this game. I’m entering the stage of my career where these are the prime years. It’s important to me.
“I’d like to see how the summer plays out. From the end-of-the-year meetings (with Blue Jackets general manager Scott Howson and coach Scott Arniel), I know what they expect to do. They said they’re going to be active. But you want to see something done to feel better about the situation.”
Bickell out 6-8 weeks … Roy may not be back … Rangers notes … Nabokov to World’s to increase value … Kings could be in on Richards
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News on April 26th, 2011
- The Globe and Mail: Blackhawks winger Bryan Bickell will be out for the remainder of the season after having surgery to repair a lacerated tendon he suffered in Game 2. He’ll be out 6-8 weeks. “While the surgery was anticipated since the injury occurred, Bryan wanted to play as long as possible before time ran out to complete the procedure appropriately,” Blackhawks team physician Dr. Michael Terry said in a release Monday.
- Jerry Sullivan of the Buffalo News: Sabres coach Lindy Ruff backtracked a bit when it comes to Derek Roy’s status for Game 7, “I don’t even know if he’s playing yet,” Ruff said when asked what he expected from Roy tonight. “So I don’t know what to expect.”
- Jeff Klein of NY Times: It sounds like Rangers coach John Tortorella may not see much of future for Chris Drury, Vinny Prospal and Sean Avery, “Tortorella said that Drury and Prospal were “getting older.” Of Avery he said, “I don’t know where it sits.” Tortorella added that the Rangers would “explore all avenues” to give Marian Gaborik some scoring help, presumably Brad Richards. Drury missed 58 games this season, had 5 points, and has a $7 million cap hit next year. “You have to make decisions on what’s best for the organization,” Tortorella said. “This is something honestly we have to look at as far as where does he fit now.”
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: Brooks thinks the Rangers need to bring in some “talented impact players” to take the team to the next level. They have a good core with Callahan, Dubinsky and Staal. “The time, though, is coming when the Rangers will have to consider packaging three young assets for one young, All-Star caliber player either in need of a change or who might have a contract issue. Three from Column B for one from Column A. That’s not a maybe.” Henrik Lundqvist will also be turning 30, “To be a great team, when you have an opportunity, you need to grab it. And when you’re older you really need to grab it because you don’t know when there’s another opportunity.”There is a risk/reward for bringing in Brad Richards on a longer term deal as he is 31 and coming off a concussion.
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: The Islanders “tolled” Evgeni Nabokov’s contract, and will allow him to play in the World Championships, and if he has a good tournament the Isles could put him on the trading block. The LA Kings could be a serious player for Brad Richards on July 1st. Richards and Joe Nieuwendyk did meet last week, but with the ownership still up in the air it’s looking likely he’ll be testing the market. The Kings didn’t give much thought to starting Jonathan Bernier on Saturday over Jonathan Quick, as they may have been concerned with the emotional damage that might have occurred if they lost while he was on the bench. Ron MacLean pointed out how much it affected Cary Price a few years ago in the follow season. Kyle Wellwood has played well in San Jose, and they may consider bringing him back.
Top 25 2011 NHL Unrestricted Free Agents
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents on April 19th, 2011
MyNHLtraderumors.com brings you it’s 2011 Top 25 NHL unrestricted free agents. In creating the list we didn’t just list rank on talent alone. We took into consideration: age, position, and likelihood of signing with a different team.
Take a look at the complete lists of 2011 Unrestricted Free Agents and 2011 Restricted Free Agents by Team.
| # | Player | Pos. | 2010-2011 Team |
10-11 Cap #
|
2011-2012 Team |
| 1 | Brad Richards | C | Dallas Stars |
$7,800,000
|
Signed with the Rangers. 9 years, $58.5 million |
| 2 | Christian Ehrhoff | D | Vancouver Canucks |
$3,100,000
|
Signed with the Sabres. 10 years, $40 million. |
| 3 | James Wisniewski | D | Montreal Canadiens |
$3,250,000
|
Signed with the Blue Jackets. 6 years, $33 million. |
| 4 | Joni Pitkanen | D | Carolina Hurricanes |
$4,000,000
|
Re-signed with the Hurricanes. 3 years $13.5 million. |
| 5 | Tomas Kaberle | D | Boston Bruins |
$4,250,000
|
Signed with the Hurricanes. 3 years, $12.75 million. |
| 6 | Jussi Jokinen | LW | Carolina Hurricanes |
$1,700,000
|
Re-signed with the Hurricanes. 3 years, $9 million. |
| 7 | Tomas Vokoun | G | Florida Panthers |
$5,700,000
|
Signs with the Capitals. 1 year, $1.5 million |
| 8 | Tomas Fleischmann | C/LW | Colorado Avalanche |
$2,600,000
|
Signs with the Panthers. 4 years, $18 million |
| 9 | Ville Leino | LW | Philadelphia Flyers |
$800,000
|
Signs with the Sabres. 6 years, $27 million |
| 10 | Ed Jovanovski | D | Phoenix Coyotes |
$6,500,000
|
Signs with the Panthers. 4 years, $16.5 million |
| 11 | Tim Connolly | C | Buffalo Sabres |
$4,500,000
|
Signs with the Maple Leafs. 2 years, $9.5 million |
| 12 | Simon Gagne | LW | Tampa Bay Lightning |
$5,250,000
|
Signs with the Kings. 2 years, $7 million |
| 13 | Erik Cole | LW/RW | Carolina Hurricanes |
$2,900,000
|
Signs with the Canadiens. 4 years, $18 million |
| 14 | Michal Handzus | C | Los Angeles Kings |
$4,000,000
|
Signed with the Sharks. 2 years, $5 million |
| 15 | Jason Arnott | C | Washington Capitals |
$4,500,000
|
|
| 16 | Ian White | D | San Jose Sharks |
$2,999,999
|
Signs with the Red Wings. 2 years, $5.75 million |
| 17 | Roman Hamrlik | D | Montreal Canadiens |
$5,500,000
|
Signs with the Capitals. 2 years, $7 million |
| 18 | Tyler Kennedy | C/W | Pittsburgh Penguins |
$725,000
|
Re-signed with the Penguins. 2 years, $4 million. |
| 19 | Scottie Upshall | LW | Columbus Blue Jackets |
$2,250,000
|
Signed with the Panthers. 4 years, $14 million |
| 20 | Bryan McCabe | D | New York Rangers |
$5,750,000
|
|
| 21 | Roman Vrbata | W | Phoenix Coyotes |
$3,000,000
|
Re-signed with the Coyotes. 3 years, $9 million |
| 22 | Joel Ward | C | Nashville Predators |
$1,500,000
|
Signed with the Capitals. 4 years, $12 million |
| 23 | Michael Ryder | RW | Boston Bruins |
$4,000,000
|
Signed with the Stars. 2 years, $7 million |
| 24 | Tomas Kopecky | C/LW | Chicago Blackhawks |
$1,200,000
|
Re-signed with the Panthers. 4 years, $12 million. |
| 25 | Dwayne Roloson | G | Tampa Bay Lightning |
$2,500,000
|
Re-signed with the Lightning. 1 year, $3 million. |
Players we took off the Top 25 list after they re-signed include Ilya Bryzgalov, Brooks Laich, Kevin Bieksa, Andrei Markov, Curtis Glencross, Alex Tanguay, Eric Brewer and Milan Hejduk.
Bolland and Pronger doubtful for their Game 3′s … Bob or Boosh? Burke to put out an offer sheet? Options for Leafs
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Videos on April 17th, 2011
- Chris Kuc via twitter: David Bolland is doubtful for Game 3 according to coach Joel Quennville.
- Katie Carrera of the Washington Post: Backstrom and Arnott trade places at yesterday’s practice. Capitals forward lines: Ovechkin-Arnott-Knuble, Sturm-Backstrom-Semin, Laich-Johansson-Chimera, Hendricks-Gordon-Bradley, King-Beagle-Fehr
- Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: A source close to the Flyers said before yesterday’s game there is a “50/50″ chance that Chris Pronger will be in the lineup Monday. After the game he said “He’s probably out Monday.” So it’s looking like a ‘must win’ would get Pronger back in the lineup. Who will be in net for the Flyers on Monday is the next big question. Laviolette pointed out that Bobrovsky has bounced back from tough games in the past. Arguments for both sides are,
For those in “Bob’s” corner: Boucher seems better suited in a relief role than Bobrovsky because of his experience. In addition, Bobrovsky has been more effective on the road than Boucher.
- Michael Russo of the Star-Tribune: From an interview with Wild owner Craig Leipold: On GM Chuck Fletcher, “He knows he has my complete and absolute confidence.” Fletcher has full control on hiring the next coach, and there is “no financial restraints when it comes to a coach.”
- Sean Leahy via twitter: “SKA & KHL Pres Medvedev claims Hitchcock & MacTavish are 2 of 4 finalists for head coach.”
- Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun: “Brian Burke said an offer sheet for restricted free agents is not out of the question in the future.” Some RFA’s this year are, Steven Stamkos, Shea Weber, Zach Parise, Keith Yandle, Zach Bogosian. If Brad Richards doesn’t want to sign with the Leafs, would they look at the next best option, Brooks Laich of Washington? Another intriguing UFA is Ville Leino.
- Mark Zwolinski of the Toronto Star: Zwolinski looks at some possible UFA centers the Maple Leafs could look at. Brad Richards: Will either re-sign with the Stars or sign with the Rangers. Simon Gagne: more of a LWer. Tim Connolly: could fill the hole for a year or two. Jason Arnott: same as Connolly. Michal Handzus: a long shot, but how much game does he have left. Zwolinski looks at some possible trade partners. New York Rangers: RFA’s Brandon Dubinsky, Brian Boyle. Rookie Derek Stepan and Erik Christensen has 1 year left before he’s a UFA. Ottawa Senators: Jason Spezza has 3 years left and could be moved to restock the roster. Boston Bruins: David Krejci has been rumored to Toronto. Would be costly to add him, makes $3.75 million next year. Philadelphia Flyers: Jeff Carter has been linked to the Leafs in the past, he and Mike Richards are locked up long term. The Flyers have less than $500,000 in cap space for next year. A long shot. San Jose Sharks: They have to interesting centers, Joe Pavelski ($4 million) and Devin Setoguchi ($1.8 million). Both are not likely to be moved, unless they disappoint in the playoffs again. Setoguchi is an RFA this summer, Pavelski has 2 years left. New Jersey Devils: Zach Parise is a RFA this summer, can the Devils afford him.
For those in Boosh’s corner: Boucher has been the steadier goalie this season, and his experience gives the team a calming effect.
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