Posts Tagged Calgary Flames
Crosby cleared for contact … Downie status TBD today … Brown, Ponikarovsky out tonight … lines and starting goalies
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News on March 6th, 2012
- Dejan Kovacevic via twitter: Sidney Crosby has been cleared for contact. Crosby: “The big step is contact. Hopefully, I can do that for a few days and get back out there.”
- Adrian Dater via twitter: Avalanche forward Steve Downie will be examined today, and his status will be made after today’s skate.
- James Mirtle via twitter: Leafs Nikolai Kulemin on if his contract extension is next: “I want to stay in Toronto, too. I love the team. We’ll see what happens.”
- David Alter via twitter: Leafs forward Mike Brown out tonight. John-Michael Liles has the flu and will be assessed this afternoon.
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Devils forward Alexei Ponikarovsky won’t play tonight, has a minor MCL sprain. Plans on practicing tomorrow.
- Roger Millions via twitter: Flames probable lines: Tanguay Jokinen Iginla-Glencross Stajan Moss-Kostopoulos Horak Jackman-Desbien Kolanos Nemisz.
- Ian Mendes via twitter: Senators lines: Greening-Spezza-Michalek, Klinkhammer-Turris-Alfredsson, Foligno-O’Brien-Neil,Daugavins-Smith-Condra.
- Stephen Whyno via twitter: Michal Neuvirth will be in net for the Capitals tonight against the Hurricanes.
- Michael Russo via twitter: Matt Hackett will start in net for the Wild.
- Dennis Bernstein via twitter: Jonathan Quick will start in net for the Kings.
Lightning will likely turn to Schneider … Injury notes: Parise, Kindl, Howard, Timonen, Meszaros, Bogosian, Comeau and Downie
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News on March 5th, 2012
- Damian Cristodero of the Tampa Bay Times: Since the Lightning weren’t interested in giving up a 2nd round pick for Ben Bishop, speculation is that they’ll turn to Cory Schneider in the summer. They have 2 1st round picks and likely 4 2nd rounders. Schneider has a career 32-14-4 record with a 2.36 GAA and .924 SV%.
- Rich Chere of the Star-Ledger: Devils winger Zach Parise injured his hand yesterday, that may required him to get x-rays. He doesn’t think, and hopes it isn’t broken. He was hit in the hand with a Milan Jurcina shot.
- George Sipple of the Detroit Free Press: Red Wings defenseman Jakub Kindl tried to play yesterday, but only last 2 shifts before leaving with an upper-body injury. More importantly for the Red Wings, Jimmy Howard left after the 1st period with a lower-body injury, and is day-to-day.
- Philadelphia Flyers via twitter: Flyers GM Paul Holmgren: Kimmo Timonen and Andrej Meszaros will be out indefinitely with lower body injuries.”
- Ed Tait of the Winnipeg Free Press: The Jets will be without defenseman Zach Bogosian for at least another week after re-aggravating his injury.
- Randy Sportak via twitter: Flames forward Blake Comeau is officially day-to-day with an upper-body injury. Roger Millions via twitter: Comeau looks to be out 2-3 weeks with a shoulder injury.
- Adrian Dater via twitter: Avalanche forward Steve Downie has a shoulder injury, this timetable won’t be known until today.
Letang has concussion symptoms … Lidstrom uncertain for Friday … lines and starting goalies … Roenick and Milbury battle video
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Starting Goalies, NHL Videos on March 1st, 2012
- Josh Yohe via twitter: Penguins Kris Letang has concussion symptoms.
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Bruins Brian Rolston hasn’t decided if he’ll play next year or not. He talks like he’ll be retiring.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: Zach Bogosian will be back in the lineup for the Jets tonight.
- Ansar Khan via twitter: Red Wings defenseman Nicklas Lidstrom didn’t practice and his status for Friday is uncertain. Kyle Quincey skates.
- Renaud Lavoie via twitter: Canadiens defenseman Andrei Markov: “I need to be ready 100 % mentally and physically before I play.” They are not sure if he’ll play this season.
- Helene Elliott via twitter: Lines at Kings practice: King-Richards-Carter; Brown-Williams-Kopitar; Stoll C for Penner/Lewis/Westgarth; Fraser C for nolan/Clifford/Richardson.
- Roger Millions via twitter: Coyotes lines: “Whitney Hanzel Vrbata-Boedker Vermette Doan-Pyatt Gordon Korpikowski-Torres langkow Bissonette.”
- Roger Millions via twitter: Flames lines: “Bouma Horak Jackman-Tanguay cammalleri Iginla-Glencross Jokinen Moss-Kostopoulos Stajan Comeau.” Defensive pairing and goalie: Giordano Hannan-Smith Bouwmeester-Brodie Sarich … Kiprusoff .
- Arthur Staple via twitter: Evgeni Nabokov will start in net for the Islanders tonight.
- Chip Alexander via twitter: Martin Biron will start in net for the Rangers tonight.
- Brian Hedger via twitter: Ray Emery will start in net for the Blackhawks against the Senators.
- Mark Stepneski via twitter: Kari Lehtonen will start in net for the Stars tomorrow against the Oilers.
- Jeremy Roenick and Mike Milbury battle it out last night:
Breaking sports news video. MLB, NFL, NBA, NHL highlights and more.
GM Press Conferences after the deadline – Video and Audio
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Trades, NHL Videos on February 27th, 2012
We’ve put together some press conferences held by some teams GMs.
Audio files
New Jersey Devils – Audio Lou Lamoreillo
Phoenix Coyotes – Audio Dave Tippett
Due to the overall size that the post would be with all the videos, you’ll have to click on the below link to see Press Conference Videos for Boston Bruins – Peter Chiarelli, Calgary Flames – Jay Feaster, Carolina Hurricanes – Jim Rutherford, Columbus Blue Jackets – Scott Howson, Dallas Stars – Joe Nieuwendyk, Detroit Red Wings – Ken Holland, Edmonton Oilers – Steve Tambellini, Tampa Bay Lightning – Steve Yzerman, Toronto Maple Leafs – Brian Burke, Washington Capitals – George McPhee and Winnipeg Jets – Kevin Cheveldayoff
Ballard to LTIR … No deal for Grabovski … Waivers today … Boyce claimed on waivers … Russell has concussion … Scouting
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Starting Goalies on February 25th, 2012
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: The Canucks put Keith Ballard on the LTIR, creating $4.2 million in cap space. Ott could be an option. Ballard has a concussion and is not close. He might be ready for the playoffs.
- Chris Johnston via twitter: Indications are that Mikhail Grabovski won’t be signing a contract extension with the Maple Leafs by Monday.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: On waivers today R. Russell and Clitsome (CBJ), Boulton (NJD), Staubitz (re-entry) (MIN), Kolanos (CGY).
- Brian Compton via twitter: The Islanders have waived Brian Rolston and recalled David Ullstrom.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: The Blue Jackets have claimed Darryl Boyce off waivers from the Maple Leafs.
- Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: The Blues have lost Kris Russell to concussion-like symptoms. Kent Huskins will take his spot, and Ian Cole was recalled. The might make a move for a defenseman, but have indicated they may be quiet, citing budget concerns.
- Chip Alexander via twitter: Hurricanes coach Kirk Muller is not worried about Cam Ward, could be in next game.
- Dave Molinari via twitter: Scouting the Penguins-Lightning game today: Stars, Kings and Lightning.
- Adrian Dater via twitter: Scouting the Blue Jackets game last night: Bruins, Flyers, Rangers, Devils, Sharks Penguins and Lightning.
- Roger Millions via twitter: Flames lines: Glencross Jokinen Iginla-Tanguay Cammalleri Comeau-Desbiens horak Jackman-Bouma Stajan Kostopoulos
- Jonas Siegel via twitter: James Reimer will start in net for the Leafs tonight.
Sunday morning rumors and notes involving deadline buyers and sellers, Maple Leafs, Blackhawks, Blue Jackets, Flyers, Kings, Blackhawks and Oilers
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 19th, 2012
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun:
“The prices, in some cases, are embarrassing,” said a league executive. “They’re going to get more realistic closer to the deadline, but right now teams are asking for too much for their players.”
Garrioch lists the Sellers and who is available: Carolina – Bryan Allen and Jaroslav Spacek. Columbus – Jeff Carter, Antoine Vermette, Derick Brassard, Rick Nash and Steve Mason. NY Islanders – Mark Eaton, Steve Staios, Milan Jurcina, P.A. Parenteau. Tampa Bay – Ryan Malone. Edmonton – Ales Hemsky, Nikolai Khabibulin and Theo Peckham. Montreal – Travis Moen, Andrei Kostitsyn and Mathieu Darche.
The Buyers and who they like: San Jose – Rick Nash, Teemu Selanne and Ales Hemsky. Boston – Teemu Selanne, Ales Hemsky and Mike Knuble. Los Angeles – Rick Nash, Teemu Selanne and Ales Hemsky. Chicago – Nikolai Khabibulin, Bryan Allen and Derek Roy. Washington – Ales Hemsky and Antoine Vermette. Nashville – Ales Hemsky and Jarret Stoll.
Top 10 players to watch: 1. Rick Nash 2. Teemu Selanne 3. Jeff Carter 4. Ales Hemsky 5. Ryan Malone 6. Jarrett Stoll 7. Jaroslav Specek 8. Derek Roy 9. Antoine Vermette 10. Nikolai Khabibulin.
Keep an eye on: Mike Knuble, Bobby Ryan, Josh Harding, Jonathan Bernier, and Ryan Miller.
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: If the NHL is helping out the Devils financially, “it is shortsighted for the league to withhold approval of deals that presumably would strengthen these wards of the state.” If they are able to trade for Marek Zidlicky, “it would be penny-wise but pound-foolish for the league to prevent it.”
- Dennis Bernstein via twitter: The Leafs could look for a #1 goalie in the summer.
- Spector’s Hockey via twitter: Hockey Central suggested that the Blackhawks and Sharks might have interest in Oilers Nikolai Khabibulin.
- Dustin Leed via twitter: Scouting the Flyers – Penguins game: 2 Blue Jackets (GM Scott Howson and senior advisor Craig Patrick were on the list to attend), 2 Blackhawks, Kings, Predators, Canadiens, Avalanche, Flames, Panthers and Blues. Randy Miller via twitter: Miller notes that 2 Blue Jackets executives have been at a Flyers 3 times this week. He thinks talks must be serious.
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: Scouting the Blue Jackets – Blackhawks game: Blues, Hurricanes, Senators, Washington, Red Wings, Rangers, Stars, Flyers and Canadiens.
- Hockey Night in Canada Hotstove notes by Spector’s Hockey (video not posted): Eric Francis said that some NHL GMs doubt Nash will get traded at the deadline. The Blue Jackets are looking for an impact player, 2 top prospects and a 1st round pick. Elliotte Friedman noted that the Blue Jackets are trying to push Nash on the Flyers, and that they’d prefer to move Jeff Carter to the Kings. Francis said that Patrick Kane is happy in Chicago and they are happy with him. Friedman suggested that the Blackhawks could face some questions if they have a short playoff run. Francis said the Flames haven’t had contract talks with Olli Jokinen, but he’s not going anywhere. Sam Gagner also isn’t going anywhere.
Not so fast on Zidlicky to Devils … Lightning to be sellers … Holmgren talks rentals … Wild talk … Smyth and Ruutu off market
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 15th, 2012
- Darren Dreger via twitter: The Wild haven’t asked Marek Zidlicky to waive his no-trade clause yet for New Jersey. He may not be traded until the summer says one source. Michael Russo via twitter: Wild GM Chuck Fletcher: “I haven’t made the decision to trade him for now for sure. … Different scenarios I’m contemplating”
- Eric Erlendsson via twitter: A goalie and defense won’t help the Lightning get into the playoffs this year. They will be sellers and look to fill those positions in the summer.
- Frank Seravalli of the Philadelphia Daily News: The Flyers have made it no secret that they are looking a defenseman, but who isn’t. Holmgren will be cautious with rentals.
“I don’t think that means we’re not looking around to try to improve ourselves,” Holmgren said. “I think you weigh what the cost is. I don’t really have any trouble making a deal that makes sense now and for the future. With those rental deals, you have to weigh the costs and make a call.
“If we have opportunities to improve our hockey club, we’ll need to think seriously about that. Everyone is trying to load up.”
- Terry Koshan of the Toronto Sun: Maple Leafs prospect Joe Colborne doens’t want to be trade-bait.
- Michael Russo of the Star Tribune: The Wild have held preliminary talks with pending UFA Kyle Brodziak. The Wild are also interested in extending defenseman Clayton Stoner. If the Wild become sellers, they may look to deal Greg Zanon, Mike Lundin and Josh Harding.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: You can take Ryan Smyth off the trade market. The Red Wings, Bruins and Rangers were interested. LeBrun says you can offically take Tuomo Ruutu’s name off the trade market. Rutherford wants to re-sign him, and now he’ll be out for 3-4 weeks. A Hurricanes source said last night that Ruutu wouldn’t be going anywhere. Contract extension talks continue.
- George Johnson of the Calgary Herald: The Flames could use a #1 center like Jeff Carter, but Johnson doesn’t think there a fit. They could use a playmaking center instead of shooting center. Carter deal also expires when he’s 37, with a yearly cap hit of $5.27 million.
- Bill Watters via twitter: The Blue Jackets – Maple Leafs rumor mentioned a while ago (Watters mentioned Nash to Leafs) appears to be the Blue Jackets request and not a Maple Leafs offer.
State of the Calgary Flames: NHL Trade Deadline Edition
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Rumors on February 14th, 2012
Written by Ryan Pike of The Hockey Writers and can be found on twitter at @RyanNPike.
Heading into this year’s trade deadline, the Calgary Flames sit in largely the same position they have been over the last few seasons: not quite in, and not quite out. As a result, a few familiar questions have cropped up once again.
- Are the Calgary Flames going to trade Jarome Iginla?
- Are the Calgary Flames going to trade Miikka Kiprusoff?
- Are the Calgary Flames going to finally acquire a first-line center?
Morning NHL rumors involving the Flyers, Maple Leafs, Oilers, Capitals and Lightning … Teams scouting last night
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Starting Goalies on February 14th, 2012
- Craig Custance of ESPN: Flyers GM Paul Holmgren is waiting for more teams to becomes sellers.
“There’s still a lot of teams that are deciding what to do, which way to go. You look at the standings, that’s easy to understand,” Holmgren said. “That doesn’t mean we’re not looking around trying to improve ourselves. I don’t think it’s any different than any other teams. You’re always looking to improve your team if you can, then you have to weigh the cost.”
The Flyers could use some help on the blueline, but their are not alone.
“Most teams in the league are,” he said. “Everybody’s looking for a defenseman right now. Even a team that has a lot of them kind of try to load up this time of year on defensemen.”
They’d love to get Ryan Suter, but they may have to wait till July 1st. Hurricanes Bryan Allen is an option, along with Canadiens Hal Gill. They are believed to be interested in Maple Leafs Luke Schenn.
- Damien Cox of the Toronto Star: The Maple Leafs were lukewarm on Ducks Bobby Ryan due to his position and cap number, but if Blue Jackets Rick Nash is available, they’d view him very, very differently.
- David Pagnotta via twitter: Dustin Penner to the Maple Leafs make 0 sense. They want a top 6 guy, and will likely get one.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Matheson notes that if Nikolai Khabibulin didn’t another year left on his contract, he’d definitely be moved as a rental.
- Robert Tychkowski of the Edmonton Sun: Ales Hemsky’s agent and the Oilers have talked about a contract.
“We talked,” said Hemsky, who’s scheduled for unrestricted free agency this summer. “And I’m open to whatever happens (staying or going). I’ll see what kind of offers they will give me and we will take it from there.”“We talked,” said Hemsky, who’s scheduled for unrestricted free agency this summer. “And I’m open to whatever happens (staying or going). I’ll see what kind of offers they will give me and we will take it from there.”
- Kevin Kurz of CSN California: Capitals Mike Knuble has been a healthy scratch for 3 straight games. He shot down rumors that he’ll be joining the Sharks.
- Chuck Gormley of CSN Washington: Capitals GM George McPhee has some pieces he could move to help improve his team. He has 3 unhappy players in Mike Knuble, Jeff Schultz and John Erskine. They have 2 1st round picks, theirs and Colorado’s, and prospects Cody Eakin and Stanislav Galiev. They could also dangle Alex Semin. Nicklas Backstrom is likely out another month with his concussion.
- Sports.ru: Capitals prospect Evegeny Kuznetsov already knows if he’ll be heading to Washington next year or staying in the KHL, but he’s not telling anyone yet.
- Erik Erlendsson via twitter: It’s too soon to say that Lightning’s Mattias Ohlund’s career is over, but his season is most likely over.
- David Pollak via twitter: Scouting the Sharks-Capitals game last night were: Blue Jackets (2), Ducks, Stars, Canadiens, Canucks, Flyers, Lightning, Predators, Blues, Red Wings and Coyotes. Ben Raby via twitter: Canadiens GM Pierre Gauthier was at the Sharks-Caps game.
- Renaud Lavoie via twitter: Scouting the Canadiens-Hurricanes last night were: Kings (2), Oilers, Canucks, Coyotes, Red Wings, Avalanche, Panthers, Ducks, Penguins, Capitals and Senators.
- Mike Zeisberger via twitter: Flames Mike Cammalleri will move from the wing to center tonight against the Maple Leafs. He’ll center Tom Kostopoulos and Blake Comeau.
- Brian Hedger via twitter: Red Wings Jimmy Howard is out tonight and is questionable for Friday against the Predators.
- Chris Kuc via twitter: Ray Emery will start in net for the Blackhawks tonight against the Predators.
Afternoon NHL rumors and notes: Carter, Kings, Radulov, Ruutu, Capitals, Stastny, ‘Hawks, Glencross, Duchene, Green … Devils and Leafs lines
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 13th, 2012
- Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: Blue Jackets GM Scott Howson and Jeff Carter’s agents won’t speak publicly about the situation. Carter agent did confirm though that Carter has not requested a trade. There are probably 5 or 6 teams that would be in the market for Carter. The Kings, Flames and Maple Leafs could be in the hunt for him. If the Kings are involved, Jonathan Bernier would be in the mix. If Calgary is interested, maybe Jay Bouwmeester could be part of the deal. Portzline wonders if the Blue Jackets and Canucks would do a Carter (10 years, $5.27 million cap hit) for Roberto Luongo (10 years, $5.33 million cap hit) deal.
- David Boclair of the Nashville City Paper: Predators GM David Poile on Alexander Radulov:
“He’s a top-six forward that a lot of people would say we’re missing.” “He’s the best player not playing in the NHL.”
If/when he returns to the NHL, he still have 1 year left on his entry level deal. Once Salavat Yulaev is finished this season, Radulov is free to come back to the NHL and Predators if he chooses. Poile has been told that Radulov’s KHL deal has an ‘out’ clause. His NHL deal is for $980,000 and his KHL deal was a reported 3 years at between $8-$13 million. If Radulov was to return this season, the Preds would be adding a top 6 without having to give up a player or prospect.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: A decision to either re-sign or trade Tuomo Ruutu is not expected until later this week.
- Stephen Whyno via twitter: Capitals owner Ted Leonsis: “wish us speedy recovery to some of our players – and hope we can add some jump via the trade markets during the next few weeks.”
- Dennis Bernstein via twitter: Kings fans are frustrated with the lack of deal for a scorer, but Bernstein assures that the Kings are considering many options, some of which are not publicized yet.
- The Fourth Period: Avalanche forward Paul Stastny could be in the Kings list of possible trade targets.
“(The Kings) healthy scratched Dustin Penner and put two rookies (Dwight King and Jordan Nolan) playing their first NHL game this season with Mike Richards against the Islanders, looks like they’ve hit the panic button to me,” an NHL insider said Saturday evening. “I know Statsny is a center, but so is Jeff Carter and Paul only has two years left on his deal and there are zero concerns with his attitude.”
The Avalanche could use Stastny to rebuild their defense and to add depth at forward. A source added if they could get Jack Johnson in a package, they look long and hard at a deal. Stastny has a $6.6 million cap hit through 2013-14. Lightning winger Ryan Malone could be another Kings target.
- Adam Jahns via twitter: Blackhawks GM Stan Bowman said that head coach Joel Quenneville is “absolutely the guy” and that he’s not looking for a goaltender.
- Ben Kuzma of the Vancouver Province: Canucks forward Chris Higgins has been battling staph infections. Higgins should be skating today, and an update could be coming later. His progress could determine if GM Mike Gillis looks at their top 6 or bottom 6. Defenseman Keith Ballard’s neck injury should be updated today as well.
- Vicki Hall via twitter: Flames winger Curtis Glencross is estimated to return the first week of March.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Flames center Mikael Backlund suffered an upper body injury on Saturday and will be out at least a month.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Avalanche forward Matt Duchene practice today in a no-contact jersey. It’s looking like he could be back soon.
- Stephen Whyno via twitter: Capitals defenseman Mike Green took part in Capitals optional skate today.
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Devils lines: Parise-Henrique-Kovalchuk; Sykora-Elias-Clarkson; Ponikarovsky-Zubrus-Bernier; Boulton-Josefson-Janssen.
- David Alter via twitter: Maple Leafs lines: Lupul-Bozak-Kessel,MacArthur-Grabovski-Connolly, Crabb-Lombardi-Kulemin, Boyce-Steckel-Brown-Armstrong. (I made the Connolly correction from the tweet link)
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: “If a player waives his “no trade” clause once he no longer has a “no trade” clause in his deal.” … “A player can provide a letter saying he is only waiving his “no trade” clause for that purpose. If he doesn’t, he is open season.” Kevin McGran via twitter: according to 2 sources: “a player retains NTC /NMC clause even if he waives it to accept trade. Rec’v'g team accepts player and all terms of deal.”
- Stephen Whyno via twitter: Thomas Greiss will start in net for the Sharks tonight against the Capitals. Michal Neuvirth said he’ll be starting tonight.
Sunday morning mash of names in the NHL rumor mill
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on February 12th, 2012
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Several GMs are looking to have a one time amnesty buyout in the next CBA that wouldn’t carry a salary cap hit. The Rangers would be interested in Rick Nash, and the Blue Jackets could ask for Brandon Dubinsky, Chris Kreider and a 1st round pick. The Predators won’t be dealing Ryan Suter and Shea Weber at the deadline, instead they’ll be looking to add a top 6 forward. There aren’t many available, they could look at Ales Hemsky. Don’t be surprised if P.A. Parenteau is next to sign a 4-5 year deal extension with the Islanders. Oilers defenseman Andy Sutton’s agent was meeting with the Oilers in attempt to get a 1 year deal done. Blackhawks GM Stan Bowman is trying to find a 2nd line center and a defenseman. They could be interested in Sabres center Derek Roy. No team has called the Senators about Sergei Gonchar, who has 1 year left at $5.5 million. If the Hurricanes and Tuomo Ruutu can’t work out a deal, he’ll be dealt. The Predators, Maple Leafs, Senators, Sharks, Red Wings, Rangers and Bruins are looking for forward. The Hurricanes are asking for a 1st round pick and top prospect for Ruutu. Ruutu wants a $5 million per season deal. The Sabres have been trying to trade defenseman Robin Regehr and Paul Gaustad. Regehr has 1 year left at $4 million. The Red Wings, Rangers, Bruins and Maple Leafs would have interest in Ryan Smyth if he decides to move on from the Oilers.
- Bucky Gleason of the Buffalo News: A Luke Schenn for James van Riemsdyk is a popular rumor, but unlikely to happen. JVR has been out Jan. 12th with a concussion. Despite his reasonable cap hit of $4.25 million through 2016-17, the Flyers can’t get maximum return for him. Burke will keep Schenn for now. Burke also won’t rent a player unless the price is minimal. Shane Doan would be a good fit in San Jose. The Sharks have the prospects and cap room. The Hurricanes are trying to re-sign Tuomo Ruutu, but if they can’t get a deal done, the Red Wings and Rangers could be interested. Sabres Paul Gaustad is a pending UFA, and the Red Wings have been scouting the Sabres in recent weeks. The Rangers have shown interest in Ryan Smyth. Rick Nash could be on his way out of Columbus if he doesn’t want to go through another rebuild and will waive his no-trade clause. He has a $7.8 million cap hit through 2017-18. Ryan Malone may be a good fit in Ottawa. It’s unlikely that the Ducks will move Ryan Getzlaf, but that could change if they get a top 6 forward or top 4 defenseman, a prospect and a high draft pick. The Rangers could make a play for him, with the starting price likely Derek Stepan. The Flyers and Blackhawks could be interested in Hal Gill. The Flyers are also interested in Bryan Allen. The Flames may be looking to get rid of Cory Sarich. There has been rumors that the Kings are interested in Jeff Carter, but the price may be too steep. Carter’s deal is for 11 years and $58 million (10 years left).
Hawks looking for trade partners … Options for Pacific teams … Carle could cash in … Koivu could be in … MacDonald close, Steen unknown
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 9th, 2012
- Craig Custance of ESPN: Blackhawks GM Stan Bowman would love to find a trading partner.
“There’s a lot of guys looking for players and not a lot willing to part with players,” he said during a Tuesday phone conversation. “I don’t know if it’s going to change a ton the next couple weeks.”
The Lightning and Islanders aren’t ready to be sellers just yet.
“Teams that are out of it are looking more towards the future,” Bowman said. “If that’s the case, there’s nothing you can do. Those teams are looking at the summer and going, ‘You know what? Why are we going to trade him away?’”
If the right center was made available, they would be interested despite recently acquiring Brendan Morrison. They will target defensemen. Canadiens Hal Gill would be an option.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Garrioch thinks the Blackhawks could end up trading for Islanders goalie Evgeni Nabokov to become their starter.
- Corey Masisak of NHL.com: The Sharks might be looking for a 3rd line energy guy who can kill penalties. They could deal Antero Niittymaki, but they won’t get much return for him. The Kings will be looking to add scoring. They have Jonathan Bernier to trade, but they’ll want a big return for him. The Coyotes could use some scoring up front. If they become sellers, they have Ray Whitney and Daymond Langkow to move. If the Stars are buyers, they could use a top 6 forward. If they become sellers they may look to move Nicklas Grossman and/or Sheldon Souray. If the Ducks won’t make Teemu Selanne or Saku Koivu available, they could consider moving any of Ryan Getzlaf, Bobby Ryan and Lubomir Visnovsky.
- Dave Lozo of NHL.com: The Red Wings have room to take on $24 million in cap space. Travis Moen and Ales Hemsky could be options.
- Frank Seravalli of the Philadelphia Daily News: It’s unclear if the Flyers and defenseman Matt Carle have held serious contract talks. Carle will be a UFA and there is belief that he could get a deal similar to James Wisniewski’s 6 years, $33 million on the open market.
- Michael Russo of the Star Tribune: Wild center Mikko Koivu practiced yesterday and could return tonight. Coach Mike Yeo on a possible trade:
“The one thing our entire team needs right now is just to go out on the ice with the idea that we’re good enough because we are. Obviously, if we can do things to make our team better I know there’s not a GM in the league who’s working harder than Chuck [Fletcher] on this. But having said that, we’ve beaten all the good teams in the West. We’ve proven ourself. When we play our game, we’ve proven what we can do.”
- Andy Strickland of True Hockey: Blues forward Andy MacDonald should be back either Sunday or Tuesday. Alex Steen hasn’t skated this week, so his return is unknown.
- Eric Francis via twitter: Francis thinks the Flames can’t afford NOT to re-sign center Olli Jokinen.
- Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: The Blue Jackets signed Vinny Prospal to a 1 year contract extension worth $2.5 million. He also got a no-trade clause.
- Eric Stephens via twitter: Scouting the Ducks-Hurricanes game last night: Blackhawks, Maple Leafs, Lightning, Coyotes, Flyers, Predators, Rangers and Blues.
- Rich Chere of Star-Ledger: Johan Hedberg said he will start in net for the Devils tonight.
Not so fast on Smyth to Rangers … Kubina, Malone and Moore linked to teams … Kings interested in Kulemin and MacArthur … ‘Hawks to wait
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 4th, 2012
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: A source is saying that Ryan Smyth would consider waiving his no-trade clause to be dealt to the Rangers. Robert Tychkowski of the Edmonton Sun: Ryan Smyth said he hasn’t heard from the Rangers and may not be that interested in a short stay there.
“I haven’t even really thought about it to be honest,” he continued. “They would have to approach me first and nobody’s approached me. It’s not something that I’ve thought much about.”
“I’ve moved four times in the last five years,” he said. “I wanted to come back here for a reason?”
Ales Hemsky hasn’t talked contract with the Oilers, and wouldn’t mind staying, depending on the money.
“Of course I would like to stay, but it depends on the terms. I like the guys here, I like the city, the fans are great and I have lots of friends here. I’ve always been happy here so I’d like to stay.”
- Damian Cristodero of the Tampa Bay Times: The next 5 games will likely determine if the Lightning will be a buyer or seller. Yzerman said many teams are in a feeling out pattern. Pavel Kubina has been linked to the Rangers and Flames. Ryan Malone has been mentioned with the Kings. The Penguins and Senators may have interest in Dominic Moore. Adam Hall and Marc-Andre Bergeron may be ready to return during this homestand.
- John MacKinnon of Edmonton Journal: The Oilers have Ryan Smyth, Ales Hemsky and Andy Sutton as UFAs at seasons end. Sam Gagner could get some interest, but the Oilers may realize that he’s better suited in a 2nd line role.
- Todd Cordell via twitter: Cordell made note that Darren Dreger said on TSN1050 radio that the Kings are interested in Maple Leafs Nikolai Kulemin and Clarke MacArthur.
- Craig Custance of ESPN: (mailbag) Blackhawks GM Stan Bowman will wait and see how the Brendan Morrison trade works out before making a move for another center, maybe Sam Gagner. Islanders Steve Staios and Mark Eaton could get some trade interest. The Islanders would rather sign P.A. Parenteau than trade him.
- Andy Strickland of True Hockey: Panthers defenseman Jason Garrison will be a UFA after the season, and signs are pointing to him hitting the open market. It’s possible the Panthers could move him, rather than lose him for nothing. Sources are saying he could be looking for something in the $4.5 million range.
- Scott Burnside of ESPN: With Jimmy Howard’s hand injury, Burnside notes a Evgeni Nabokov deal makes sense.
- Ben Meyer-Abbott of the Chicago Sun-Times: The Blackhawks have dropped 5 straight, and GM Stan Bowman said there is no help coming. “I like our personnel. We’re trying to upgrade. It’s not like we’ve got guys playing that can’t play in the NHL. We certainly have guys that can improve on their level of play. But at the same time, we’re just trying to enhance our group as opposed to completely remake it.”
- Michael Russo of the Star-Tribune: Kyle Brodziak hasn’t had contract talks with the Wild yet. “As long as things make sense, why wouldn’t we want to sign Kyle Brodziak?” Fletcher said. “He’s been a good player for us, he fits in well, I think he’s enjoyed playing in Minnesota, and he’s had success here. We enjoy having him here, so hopefully we can make it work.”
Blues could look at Ruutu … Stewart may be available … Carter may interest Leafs … Green skating … Stempniak on crutches
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 2nd, 2012
- Andy Strickland of True Hockey: The Blues may look at Hurricanes forward Tuomo Ruutu. Strickland thinks the Blues can find their scoring touch internally, but that doesn’t mean they should not try to improve their roster. It might take someone like Chris Stewart to get him though. Stewart has struggled this year and will be due at least $3.25 million, a RFA after the season. Moving Stewart could come back to bit them if they did move him. For the right price they might move him, but it might not make sense doing it for a rental. T.J. Oshie and David Perron will also need new deals in the summer. The Blues biggest need may be a top 4 defenseman that can play the left side. An experienced, rugged Dman would be ideal. The Blue Jackets aren’t moving Rick Nash, but they wouldn’t mind moving Jeff Carter, and Strickland doesn’t think it will be as hard to do as most think. Ray Whitney may not be a fit with the Blues.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: If the rumors out of St. Louis are true that Chris Stewart could be available, Dater thinks the Avalanche should look at bringing him back. Stewart hasn’t happy when he was dealt to the Blues, and is still friends with some of the Avs. Stewart replacing Hejduk as a top 6 winger would make sense. Dater would offer up David Jones, who also has lost his scoring touch this year. Stewart is a RFA at seasons end, Jones is a UFA.
- Bob Mitchell of the Toronto Star: Mitchell thinks that Jeff Carter would look good between Phil Kessel and Joffrey Lupul. The Blue Jackets gave up a 1st round pick which turned out to be Sean Couturier and Jakob Voracek, so they would still need to get a good return back. Why it could happen: Carter has struggled this year but he is a 30-40 goal scorer. They may be able to get him at a discounted rate due to 10 years left on his contract. Why it won’t happen: He has a no trade clause, he has 10 years left at $5.27 million cap hit, and Burke doesn’t like long contracts.
- Joe Haggerty of CSNNE: Bruins Nathan Horton will have missed his 3rd consecutive game with a ‘mild concussion. “He’s still where he was a few days ago. He’s feeling better, but not the stages of where he’s working out,” said Julien. “The day he does [feel better], I’m going to be the first to let you know that he’s on the bike now and that he’s moving forward.”
- Brian McNally via twitter: Capitals defenseman Mike Green said he’s on schedule from his sports hernia surgery. He was expected to be out 4 to 6 weeks. Stephen Whyno via twitter: Mike Green skated the last 3 days.
- Roger Millions via twitter: Flames winger Lee Stempniak left the arena on crutches and a soft boot on his left foot, could be long-term.
- Jeremy Rutherford via twitter: Alex Steen and Andy McDonald skated with the extras today, so it looks like they may not be ready for tomorrow.
- Don Brennan of the Ottawa Sun: Senators captain Daniel Alfredsson is getting closer to making a decision if he’ll play another season. He said 50% yes, the other 50% was up to his wife. They’ll talked about it over the next couple days.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: Regardless of what the NHL turns up in their investigation to the Kings-CBJ clock issue, the game stands with a Kings win. Lisa Dillman via twitter: Kings GM Dean Lombardi in an email: “Those clocks are sophisticated instruments that calculate time by measuring electrical charges called coulombs. Given the rapidity and volume of electrons that move through the measuring device the calibrator must adjust at certain points which was the delay you see – the delay is just recalibrating for the clock moving too quickly during the 10 – 10ths of a second before the delay – this insures that the actual playing time during a period is exactly 20 minutes – that is not an opinion – that is science.”
Afternoon notes involving: Parise, Moore, Visnovsky, Blake, Suter, Ruutu, Morrow, O’Reilly, Theodore, lines and starting goalies
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on January 31st, 2012
- Rich Chere via twitter: Devils forward Zach Parise said there have been no contract negotiations, but he still wants to stay in New Jersey.
- Craig Custance and Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: Lightning Dominic Moore would be a nice addition to many playoff bound teams. If the Ducks can’t get back in the playoff race, defenseman Lubomir Visnovsky could become available. Winger Jason Blake could also becomes available.
- Kevin Allen of the USA Today: Ryan Suter knows the Predators will pay market value, though the sides haven’t talked serious numbers. Suter hasn’t signed as he’s waiting for them to show him that they’ll compete for the Stanley Cup this year, and in the future. It seems unlikely that David Poile would trade Suter. Tuomo Ruutu would be a good fit with the Predators. Poile may be looking for a long-term addition as well.
- Jeremy Rutherford via twitter: Responding to James Murphy’s question on where will the Blues trade goalie Ben Bishop: The Lightning, Blue Jackets, Maple Leafs, Devils, Hurricanes and Anaheim … teams that need goaltending or who have piece the Blues would want.
- Chip Alexander via twitter: Hurricanes Tuomo Ruutu has had no negotiations with the team. Ruutu on trade rumors: “I’ve heard rumors I’m going to every team in the NHL. … I hear that stuff but there’s nothing I can do.”
- Mark Stepneski via twitter: Stars forward Brenden Morrow has been activated from the IR.
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: The Coyotes have put Cal O’Reilly on re-entry waivers.
- Harvey Fialkov via twitter: Panthers coach Dineen says that Jose Theodore is still his starter but is not happy with his last 2 games.
- Andrew Gross via twitter: Rangers lines: Hagelin-Stepan-Gaborik, Dubinsky-Richards-Callahan, Fedotenko-Boyle-Prust, Rupp-Anisimov-Mitchell.
- Randy Sportak via twitter: Flames lines: Tanguay-Backlund-Iginla; Comeau-Jokinen-Cammalleri; Bouma-Jones-Stempniak; Kostopoulos-Stajan-Jackman.
- Sam Carchidi via twitter: Jaromir Jagr will be in the lineup tonight. Ilya Bryzgalov will start in net for the Flyers tonight against the Jets.
- Rich Chere via twitter: Martin Brodeur will start in net for the Devils against Martin Biron and the New York Rangers.
- Pens Inside Scoop: Marc-Andre Fleury will start in net for the Penguins.
Bruins not talking Thomas trade … Focus now turns to Ruutu, Allen and Pitkanen … Liles doesn’t think it’s a concussion … Kane back to Winnipeg
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on January 31st, 2012
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli said via email on Tim Thomas trade rumors: “Not trading him. I have not talked to anyone and I don’t plan to.”
- Chip Alexander via twitter: Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford has a policy not to re-sign players during the season, but Tim Gleason was an exception yesterday. It was the first time he’s done that. Rutherford said he’s getting lost of calls for Tuomo Ruutu. Darren Dreger via twitter: Hurricanes trade focus now switches to Ruutu, Bryan Allen and Joni Pitkanen. Pitkanen’s injury may not interfere with a trade.
- Vicki Hall via twitter: Flames GM Jay Feaster on the radio yesterday: “our mandate is to win now.”
- Jonas Siegel of TSN: Leafs defenseman John-Michael Liles believes he doesn’t have a concussion, but his issues stem from a neck problem.
“Everybody wants to call it a concussion,” he exclaimed to TSN.ca. “Everybody says ‘Oh, if you have whiplash you have a concussion’ … I wasn’t sitting there going ‘Oh man I feel so foggy’ or anything like that, it just felt like I was just completely locked up and it was cutting off my focus and things like that.
“It all seemed like it was always neck-related and it almost felt like it was cutting off the flow to my brain sometimes just because it was so stiff.”
- Ed Tait of the Winnipeg Free Press: Jets Evander Kane and Tim Stapleton are heading back to Winnipeg for further evaluation. Kane is out with a concussion and is not expected to play on their 4 game road trip. Dustin Byfuglien and Alex Burmistrov staked yesterday and are close to returning. They won’t play tonight, but could be in the lineup on Thursday.
- Dave Molinari via twitter: Sidney Crosby will skate today and will be off tomorrow.
- Tim Panaccio via twitter: The earliest Flyers forward Daniel Briere returns is this weekend. James van Riemsdyk is not expected to play tonight.
- Tony Marinario via twitter: The Canadiens said that Andrei Markov would be out 4 t0 6 weeks after his Dec. 5th operation. It’s been 8 weeks now.
- Ottawa Senators via twitter: Senators coach Paul MacLean said that forward Peter Regin will be out 4-6 months after left shoulder surgery.
- Rich Chere via twitter: Devils forward Travis Zajac hasn’t resumed skating yet. He’ll need to get clearance from his doctor in Winnipeg before he can start.
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Devils lines: Parise-Zubrus-Kovalchuk; Sykora-Elias-Clarkson; Ponikarovsky-Josefson-Bernier; Boulton-Mills/Carter-Janssen.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Semyon Varlamov will start in net for the Avalanche tonight against the Oilers.
Flames – Jets trade minor leaguers, Negrin for Aliu
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Trades on January 30th, 2012
Randy Sportak via twitter: The Calgary Flames have traded defenseman John Negrin to the Winnipeg Jets for winger Akim Aliu.
Bob McKenzie via twitter: Negrin and Aliu had been playing on the same AHL team. Aliu was on loan, Negrin will now move on.
John Negrin
Akim Aliu
The Blackhawks have traded for Brendan Morrison
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Trades on January 27th, 2012
The Chicago Blackhawks have acquired center Brendan Morrison from the Calgary Flames for defenseman Brian Connelly.
Morrison has a $1.25 million salary cap hit and will be a UFA at the end of the season. He’ll likely center the ‘Hawks 2nd line, possibly the 3rd line if the feel Bolland is the #2.
Connelly carries a $525,000 NHL cap hit, and will be a RFA at the end of the season.
James Mirtle via twitter: Flames GM Jay Feaster: “Given his pending UFA status and the fact that we were not going to re-sign him, we felt it important to try to move him.”
Brendan Morrison
Brian Connelly
Oilers would listen to Khabibulin offers … Round up of what some teams are looking for … Could Visnovsky be on the move? Glencross out 6 weeks
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Rumors on January 21st, 2012
- Darren Dreger of TSN: (mailbag) The Oilers would listen to offers on Nikolai Khabibulin (39). He has 1 year left at $3.75 million. They would need to get a goalie back if they dealt him. Hard to see the Oilers and Canucks doing a deal for Schneider. If the Oilers made it a big deal that included Ales Hemsky, a Jonathan Bernier deal could make some sense. The Flames are still looking to improve this year, and can use some of their upcoming UFAs for help. The Blue Jackets could dangle Jeff Carter, Antoine Vermette and Derick Brassard. Rick Nash’s name will come up at the deadline. The Capitals are expecting Mike Green to return just before the trade deadline.
- Jason Brough of ProHockey Talk: Brough thinks that if the Blue Jackets were to trade Jeff Carter, it’s more likely to happen in the summer, maybe by a new GM. Would he get a package equal to what he gave up for him now? It cost them their 2011 8th overall pick, which turned out to be Sean Couturier, Jakob Voracek and a 3rd rounder. Carter is under contract until 2022 with a $5.3 million cap hit. The Maple Leafs have been looking for a 1st line center. The Rangers could use some scoring help. The Kings could also use some additional scoring, reuniting him with Mike Richards.
- Kevin Allen of the Toronto Star: Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke thinks it will be a busy trade deadline, but Burke hope to make moves beforehand as he’s “never liked the price tag at the deadline.” The Predators are looking for offensive help, and GM David Poile could deal Ryan Suter if they can’t re-sign him. The Sabres have to look at a roster shake-up. They could use a top-line center, and Drew Stafford could be bait. The Coyotes could use some help up front. The Wild are looking for some offensive help. The Oilers could trade UFAs Ales Hemsky and Ryan Smyth. The Flyers should be looking for a veteran blueliner. The Senators could use some more scoring help up front. The Ducks have Jason Blake heading to free agency. The Blue Jackets have Vinny Prospal and Samuel Pahlsson who’ll draw some interest. The Hurricanes will get interest in Tim Gleason and Tuomo Ruutu.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: LeBrun thinks that Beauchemin’s contract extension further raises the possibility that Lubomir Visnovsky could be dealt at the trade deadline.
- Rich Hammond of LA Kings Insider: Kings goalie Jonathan Bernier is under contract until 2012-13, but will the Kings trade him before then? Many teams regard him as a future #1 goalie. But is he playing enough to generate a strong offer? He’s on pace to play in 15 games.
- Randy Sportak of the Calgary Sun: Flames winger Curtis Glencross has an MCL injury and will be out at least 6 weeks.
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