Posts Tagged Carey Price
Price negotiations progressing … More on Guerin’s skate with some Flyers
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on September 2nd, 2010
- TSN: According to Carey Price’s agent, contract negotiations are progressing, but there is still a ways to go. He hopes that a deal is in place before training camp. It was reported earlier that Price is asking for $3 million, and that he is ready to go on “strike” if he doesn’t get it.
- Craig Custance of the Sporting News: Bill Guerin sent a text message to the Sporting News saying that he was just in town (Philadelphia), and that while he skated with some Flyers, there’s nothing more to it at the moment. Guerin’s agent, Bob Murray, said that he just needed a place to skate and that they’ve had discussion with a couple teams. Teams may be looking to use cheaper, younger players before committing to veterans like Guerin and Owen Nolan. Nolan’s agent, JP Barry, said that Nolan would prefer to stay on the West Coast.
- Frank Seravalli of the Philadelphia Daily News: Guerin said that his skate with the Flyers has been planned for weeks. A source said last week that the Flyers and Guerin talked right after the Penguins said they weren’t interested, but the Flyers can’t currently get him under the cap. Seravalli thinks they could fit him in if he signed for the league minimum or sent one of Darroll Powe , Dan Carcillo, Matt Walker or Oskars Bartulis to the AHL.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: It’s a tough time for some of the remaining free agents looking for a contract; Patrick O’Sullivan, Ryan Potulny, Mike Comrie, Brendan Morrison, Marek Svatos, Ruslan Fedotenko, Jeff Halpern, Miro Satan, Bill Guerin and Owen Nolan are still looking for a deal. O’Sullivan has it a bit better than the others as he’ll be paid $450,000 for the next two seasons from his buyout. He’s only 25, and has put up 149 points in 280 games, and should get an offer of at least $500,000.
Post on Kovalchuk situation coming shortly, because I know you’re all not sick and tired of hearing/reading about him.
Ryan to meet with Ducks this week … Khabibulin to appeal 30 day jail sentence … Savard to attend Bruins camp … Souray could attend Oilers camp … Price to Strike?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Trades on September 1st, 2010
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: The Anaheim Ducks and Bobby Ryan’s side have plans to meet this week in attempt to break their contract stalemate.
- Edmonton Journal: Oilers GM Steve Tambellini has said that Sheldon Souray could be at training camp if he isn’t dealt before. “We know he would rather not be in Edmonton. We’d like to make a deal if we could and it may take until the start of camp or just before. “We don’t have anything right now that would help the Oilers,” he said.
- Stu Barnes of the Edmonton Journal: Nikolai Khabibulin was given a 30 day jail sentence in his drunk driving case. Khabibulin’s lawyers plan on appealing, which would allow him to attend training camp, and might keep him out of jail for the entire season. Additional discipline from the league and/or team may come at a later date. Khabibulin will enter the leagues substance abuse and behavioural health program.
- Mike Boone of Habs Inside/Out: According to a tweet by Michel Godbout (CBC-Montreal reporter), Carey Price is looking for $3 million a year or he’s going to strike.
- Joe Haggerty of CSNNE: Sources tell CSNNE that the Boston Bruins fully expect Marc Savard to attend their training camp. Savard is penciled in as their #1 center between Nathan Horton and Milan Lucic. Tyler Seguin is expected to play left wing with Patrice Bergeron and Mark Recchi.
- Chris Vivlamore via twitter: Contract talks between the Atlanta Thrashers and Niclas Bergfors are progressing very slow.
- Chris Kuc via twitter: Marty Turco wants to play between 55 and 65 games next season for the Chicago Blackhawks.
- Gregg Krupa of the Detroit News: Detroit Red Wings defenseman Niklas Kronwall underwent arthroscopic knee surgery yesterday. GM Ken Holland expects him to be ready to go by the start of training camp. Kirk Maltby and the Wings could agree to a deal by the end of the week.
Thornton-Sharks talking extension … On why Kovalchuk deal should be accepted … Devils moving Zajac?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on August 30th, 2010
- Mark Emmons of the San Jose Mercury News: Joe Thornton is having preliminary talks with the San Jose Sharks about a contract extension. The 31-year old Thornton will be a UFA at seasons end. Thornton has a cap hit of $7.2 million this season according to capgeek.com.
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: On why the new Kovalchuk deal should get approved. Rejected deal had $2.75 million over the last 5 years. New deal, $10 million over the last 5 years.
- Mark Everson of the NY Post: Rumors are out there that Travis Zajac could be one of the players the New Jersey Devils move to make room for Ilya Kovalchuk. The Devils could be looking to move Bryce Salvador and Dainius Zubrus. The 25-year old Zajac is the teams number 1 center, and has a cap hit of $3.89 million for the next 3 years. Zajac had 25 goals and totalled 67 last year.
- Mike Hume of ESPN: Trading Zajac would be a serious hit to the Devils. Jason Arnott would then be the teams top center. Zajac could bring back a decent return in prospects and/or draft picks. The Washington Capitals have been looking for a 2nd line center and have a deep farm system. 2009 draft pick, Jacob Josefson, would be a possible internal replacement.
- Jimmy Murphy via twitter: Sources are telling Murphy that nothing will most likely come from the Marc Savard contract investigations. The investigation is hampering trade talks.
- Jimmy Murphy via twitter: Murphy thinks that the Edmonton Oilers should throw an offer sheet to Carey Price.
- Gregg Krupa of the Detroit News: Kirk Maltby’s agent said they are negotiating with the Detroit Red Wings, and that a deal could be finalized this week. The deal will most likely be a 2-way deal. Maltby did talk with other teams, including the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Tikhonov, did he or didn’t he request trade … Blues call Sweatt … Likely rule changes could be ….
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on August 19th, 2010
Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Phoenix Coyotes forward Viktor Tikhonov has requested a trade according to his father, and 15 teams are interested.
Scott Burnside via twitter: Coyotes GM Don Malony says there is no truth to Tikhonov requesting a trade.
Andy Strickland via twitter: St. Louis Blues GM Doug Armstrong spoke with Bill Sweatt in effort to bring the free agent forward to St. Louis.
The Hockey News via twitter: An NHL executive said the rule changes that are the likeliest to be approved are: 1. Modified icing 2. Shallower nets 3. 3-3 OT and 4. No line change on offsides.
Lyle ‘Spector’ Richardson of FoxSports: The length of contracts wanted by teams and remaining restricted free agents is making it harder for them to come to terms. Bobby Ryan is looking for 3 years, Ducks want 5. The Stars are offering 2 years to James Neal, he’d like a longer deal (and probably more money than the $2.5 a season they were offering). Carey Price is after 2 years, the Canadiens offered 5.
Sharks interested in Niemi? Preds may not be talking to Theodore … Price-Canadiens talks are slow
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on August 5th, 2010
- Gary Peterson of the San Jose Mercury News: Could the San Jose Sharks be interested in Antti Niemi? The Sharks have about $4 million in cap space, with 2 goalies under contract. Are Antero Niittymaki (2 years and $4 million) and Thomas Greiss good enough to take the Sharks to the finals?
- Jim Diamond of National Predators Examiner: As of Tuesday night, Predators GM David Poile said he’s fine with heading in to the season with Pekka Rinne and any one of his 4 goalie prospects who have never played an NHL game. Poile didn’t rule out looking for a more experienced goalie. Though the odds of signing him aren’t good, Poile said of Niemi, “We could call and see what he would be interested in, if there would be a fit.” Poile said (as of Tuesday night) that he has not talked to Jose Theodore. (It was rumored on Tuesday that they were talking, 1 year, $1.5 million.) The Preds still have RFA’s Patric Hornqvist and Cody Franson that they want to sign. Those negotiations are still a work in progress, Poile will talk to their agents late this week or early next week.
- Dave Stubbs of Habs Inside/Out: Carey Price’s contact talks with the Canadiens are moving along at a slow pace, which is “relatively normal” according to his agent. The two sides are not close, but both sides are commited to getting a deal done. Price is looking for a short deal, a year or two.
- Randy Youngan of the OC Register: Ducks GM Bob Murray has been rebuilding their defense. The team was 29th in blocked shots and shots allowed. Four starters will be Visnovsky, Lydman, Sutton and Sheldon Brookbank. Murray hinted there could be another veteran Dman on the way. They have been rumored to be interested in Kevin Bieksa, and former Duck, Ruslan Salei wants to return. Murray did say they have 2 spots open for the young players.
- Joe Haggerty via twitter: Tim Thomas won’t get released by the Bruins, they’d like to trade him, might happen during the season.
- Will DePaoli via twitter: Slava Kozlov is still hoping to play in the NHL, and is exploring options.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Former Oiler Ryan Potulny getting interest from the Blues and a few other teams.
Nabokov going to Russia … Zherdev signing with the Flyers? No comment for Kovalchuk agent
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on July 7th, 2010
4:37 PM:
Helene Elliott via Twitter: “Kings believed to have gotten a proposal from Kovalchuk, but nothing has been settled and no response is imminent.”
4:20 PM:
Aaron Portzline via Twitter: Flyers and Zherdev deal could be finalized tonight.
Pierre LeBrun via Twitter: Joe Corvo and the Carolina Hurricanes reach a 2 year deal worth $4.5 million.
1:40 PM:
Dmitry Chesnokov via Twitter: Evgeni Nabokov signs with the SKA St. Peterburgh.
Dmitry Chesnokov via Twitter: Nikolai Zherdev may be signing with the Philadelphia Flyers according to reports from Russia.
Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: Kovalchuk’s agent, Jay Grossman, would not comment on the talks with the LA Kings. Maple Leafs still searching for a top 6 forward. “We continue to listen on Kaberle and to explore other trade opportunities,” Leafs GM Brian Burke told ESPN.com via e-mail. If they don’t get a top 6 forward, they’ll keep Kaberle. Nabokov is close to signing with SKA. Paul Kariya still wants to play and will wait for a good fit. The Montreal Canadiens and Carey Price have had talks, but no serious progress has been made, there is no rush to get a deal done. Buffalo Sabres have signed Rob Niedermayer.
Qualifying offers and other Free Agency Rumors
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 29th, 2010
Yesterday at 5:00 pm was the deadline for teams to make qualifying offers from their RFAs. If they didn’t receive a qualifying offer, they’ll become a UFA.
- Bryan Mullen of the Tennessean: The Nashville Predators did not qualify Denis Grebeshkov and Dustin Boyd, both acquired at the trade deadline for a 2nd round pick (Grebeshkov) and a 4th round pick (Boyd).
- Chris Vivlamore of the Atlanta Journal Constitution: The Atlanta Thrashers made qualifying offers to: Niclas Bergfors, Bryan Little, Ondrej Pavelec, Clarke MacArthur, Ben Eager, Peter Mannino and Anthony Stewart. They didn’t not send qualifying offers to: Chad Denny, Rylan Kaip, Scott Lehman and Matt Siddall. The Thrashers and Pavel Kubina are a little ways apart, he would like return but only at a fair price. They’ve made Maxim Afinogenov an offer, but he’s looking to test the market. Colby Armstrong will head to free agency. Eric Boulton has received a contract offer. There’s a bit of gap between the club and Johan Hedberg. They’ll probably allow Evgeny Artyukhin to go to free agency. The Thrashers are looking for a 15-goal scorer, which might come through a trade (A 15-goal scorer, I bet Thrashers fans are really excited now).
- Sportsnet via Twitter: Maxim Afingenov has turned down the lastest contract offer from the Thrashers, and may be leaning towards going to the KHL.
- Javier Serna of the Raleigh News & Observer: Carolina GM Jim Rutherford said yesterday that Ray Whitney is expected to test the free agent market. They also made qualifying offers to: Justin Peters, Casey Borer, Bryan Rodney, Nicolas Blanchard, Nick Dodge and Justin Pogge.
- Pat Hickey of the Montreal Canadiens: The Montreal Canadiens agreed to terms with RFA Benoit Pouliot, a 1 year, $1.35 million deal. The Canadiesns also re-signed Tom Pyatt. They now have a cap number around $50.6 million, with 17 players under contract. They still need to sign Carey Price, 2 players for the 3rd/4th lines, a backup goalie and maybe an extra Dman. The team will look at signing some undrafted players from the QMJHL.
- Ben Kuzma of the Vancouver Province: The Vancouver Canucks sent qualifying offers to Shane O’Brien, Mason Raymond, Jannik Hansen and Tanner Glass. The could be active in the free agent market, possibly Zbynek Michalek. Kevin Bieksa could be moved if they acquire another defenseman, possibly bringing in some experienced depth for the 3rd-4th lines. The Canucks have about $10 million for 6 players, not including Mason Raymond who will file for arbitration. O’Brien may also be heading to arbitration and has said he’d like a 2 year deal.
- Pierre LeBrun via Twitter: The Phoenix Coyotes and Derek Morris are still talking, but are far apart.
- Pierre LeBrun via Twitter: The Flyers have permission to speak to both Evgeni Nabokov and Marty Turco (who did receive an offer, but wants to test free agency).
- Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: ESPN reported that Marty Turco turned down a 3 year deal worth over $6 million.
- Frank Seravalli of the Philadelphia Daily News: Reports that Turco sent a text to XM Radio’s crew for NHL Live, saying he rejected a $2 million deal from the Flyers. Multiple sources told the Daily News that the Flyers never made an offer. Reports are that Nabokov is looking for no less than $4.5 million.
Trade Rumors still going on … Eyes turning to Free Agency
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on June 27th, 2010
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: The LA Kings made a play at the rights for Ilya Kovalchuk, but the New Jersey Devils reject as they still hope to re-sign him. If Dan Hamhuis and the Pittsburgh Penguins don’t reach a deal, the Kings could also be interested in signing him. The Kings like Tomas Kaberle but it may not fit as the Leafs want a top-6 forward, and so do the Kings. The Devils are still trying to sign Paul Martin, but it looks like he maybe heading to the open market. Kaberle could be an option for the Devils if they are unable to sign Martin. The Sharks re-signed Niclas Wallin and Scott Nichol to one year deals. The Phoenix Coyotes still hope to re-sign Zbynek Michalek, but are running out of time.
- Bruce Garrioch in the Toronto Sun: Ray Whitney could sign with the Tampa Bay Lightning. He could get a 2 year deal at $3.5 million per season. Minnesota made a run at David Krejci, Patrice Bergeron and Stephen Weiss. The Oilers offered Andrew Cogliano and another player to Boston for the 2nd overall pick. The Bruins are still working on moving Marc Savard. The Coyotes, Rangers, Leafs, and Thrashers are looking for a center. Montreal, Ottawa and Toronto are on Savard’s list of preferred teams.
- ChicagoBreakingSports: Niklas Hjalmarsson has received a qualifying offer from the Chicago Blackhawks. Andrew Ladd and Jordan Hendry have yet to receive qualifying offers and may hit unrestricted free agency.
- Pat Hickey: Canadiens GM Pierre Gauthier must decide this week if he’ll re-sign Dominic Moore. Glen Metropolit and Paul Mara appear to be headed to free agency. He’ll also start working on signing Carey Price to a long term contract.
- Michael Russo of the Star-Tribune: With the Minnesota Wild unable to make any trades during the draft, they may be more active in the free agent market than originally planned, or they may just hold course. The Wild need to address the lack of depth at center. They are hoping that Pierre-Marc Bouchard is able to return from his concussion that happened 17 months ago.
- Pierre LeBrun via Twitter: Yzerman told LeBrun that they were not acquiring the rights to Chris Mason.
- Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe: Tim Thomas may have waived his no trade clause. The Flyers have shown interest (this was written before Flyers acquired Nabokov’s rights).
- Darren Dreger via Twitter: The Maple Leafs have shown some interest in Marc Savard. Tomas Kaberle won’t be part of a deal if it happens.
- Kevin McGran of the Toronto Star: Burke put Kaberle talks on hold Saturday and focus on the draft. After free agency starts on July 1st, he expects talks to heat up after the free market for offensive defenseman is set.
- Michael Obernauer of the New York Daily News: The New York Rangers and Marc Staal don’t appear close to a deal at the moment.
“I wouldn’t say it’s a wide gap; it’s more like a chasm.
“I’d like to have it done,” Sather said. “In Staal’s situation, he’s in exactly the same position Dubinsky was in last year. Where that’s going to end up is anyone’s imagination. He’s a good player, we like him – just like Dubinsky: we’d like to have him back, we think he’s got a long future, we’re going to treat him fairly. Sometimes agents don’t recognize that – leverage works both ways.”
- Tim Panaccio of CSNPhilly: The Flyers may have a verbal agreement with the San Jose Sharks that would send the Flyers 2011 7th round pick to the Sharks for the rights to Evgeni Nabokov.
Some late day NHL Rumor quick hits
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 24th, 2010
Dmitry Chesnokov via Twitter: Filatov: “I am coming back to CBJ in August. I have already spoken with GM. Haven’t talked to coach, but read he’s good w/young players.”
TSN: The Boston Bruins have granted Tim Thomas’ agent, Bill Zito, permission to talk to other teams about a possible trade.
Darren Dreger via Twitter: The Florida Panthers are willing to trade their recently acquired #15 overall pick, with the Edmonton Oilers showing interest.
Pierre LeBrun via Twitter: LeBrun spoke with LA Kings GM today and said the goalie Jonathan Quick is not available for trade.
Pierre LeBrun via Twitter: It’s looking like Lightning goalie, Antero Niittymaki, will be going to the open market.
Jim Kerr AM 880 Calgary: Oilers GM Steve Tambellini hopes to deal Sheldon Souray by Saturday, with Dallas and NY Rangers as possible teams interested.
TSN: The Montreal Canadiens have sent qualifying offers to Carey Price, Maxim Lapierre, Tom Pyatt, Mathieu Carle, and Sergei Kostitsyn. Benoit Pouliot was not qualified today, they have until the 28th to qualify him. Some people thought that the Canadiens would not qualify Kostitsyn and just let him walk, but I guess they want to hold on to his rights if he bolts for the KHL, or try to trade him so they don’t lose him for nothing.
Maple Leafs interested in Hamhuis? Kovalchuk update, well sort of …
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 19th, 2010
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: The Bruins continue to shop Tim Thomas around in hope of freeing up some cash before July 1st. The Blues had shown some interest before they acquired Halak. Other teams that could be looking for a starting goalie are Philadelphia, Washington, San Jose and Tampa. Thomas is 36-years old with 3-years left at a $5 million cap hit. The Lightning made a run at Carey Price, but the Canadiens had already decided to keep him. The Capitals are rumored to be shopping Alexander Semin around the league, looking for 2 top prospects and a pick. The Florida Panthers are shopping Nathan Horton, Rostislav Olesz, Radek Dvorak, and Keith Ballard.
- Tom Gulitti of The Record: Gulitti runs through the Ilya Kovalchuk free agent situation. Kovalchuk won’t be signing with the KHL or the New Jersey Devils before the July 1st free agent date. The Devil’s and Kovalchuk continue to talk. There is still a possibility of signing with the Devils on July 1st. His opinion of the organization has increased over time. He wants to play for a winning team, and his first choice is to stay in the NHL, with the KHL as a fall back.
- Damien Cox of the Toronto Star: It’s been well documented that the Toronto Maple Leafs are one of many teams interested in Patrick Sharp and Nathan Horton, but Cox throws out the name Dan Hamhuis. Dan Hamhuis is a UFA, Sharp and Horton would would have to be acquired through trade. What the team does with Tomas Kaberle would influence any of the above move(s).
- Tim Panaccio of CSN: The Flyers had interest in trading for Carey Price before the Canadiens shipped Halak off to St. Louis. TSN reported that the Flyers, Lightning and San Jose were interested in Halak, though Flyers GM Paul Holmgren denied it. The Flyers are uncertain if Michael Leighton could be their #1 goalie next year.
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: According to James Wisniewski’s agent, they are not in talks with Anaheim, and there is the possibility that the RFA is dealt. Wisniewski is coming off a 1-year deal at $2.75 million. He had 30 points last season in 69 games, and was in the top-20 in ice time (24.:20).
- Mike Russo of the Star-Tribune: The Minnesota Wild could be open to trading the 9th overall pick in this year’s NHL draft, but it would have to be for a young player that could give them 8-10 years of solid production. The Wild have varying degrees of interest for centers Patrick Sharp, Jeff Carter, and Stephen Weiss.
- Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: After not having much success with the Penguins after he was acquired at the trade deadline for Luca Caputi, Alexei Ponikarovsky most likely won’t be re-signed. Jay McKee probably won’t be back either. The Pens are still considering bringing back Sergei Gonchar, Jordan Leopold, Mark Eaton, Matt Cooke and Bill Guerin.
- Elliotte Friedman via Twitter: The 34-year old Chris Mason was asking the St. Louis Blues for 3 years, $11.25 million.
- Helene Elliot of the LA Times: Former coach of Flyers, John Stevens, has been offered an assistant coach position from the LA Kings.
Montreal Canadiens trade Jaroslav Halak to the St. Louis Blues
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Trades on June 17th, 2010
The Montreal Canadiens have traded their playoff hero, Jaroslav Halak, to the St. Louis Blues for forwards Lars Eller and Ian Schultz.
The 25-year old Halak is a restricted free agent, and the Canadiens decided that Carey Price (also a RFA) will be their goaltender of the future. Last season, Halak posted a 26-13-5 record with a 2.40 GAA and .924 SV%. with 5 shutouts. It was his playoff performance that I thought would make him the Canadiens goalie of the future, after leading the team to upsets over the Penguins and Capitals.
It’s been rumored for months that the Blues have been unsure about their future goalie. They were in talks Chris Mason, but he is turning 34, and was reportedly looking for in the $4 million neighborhood. It appears now that he’ll hit the open market. The two teams have been linked in the past to either a Halak or Price trade.
The Canadiens get back 2 young forwards. Eller was the 13th overall pick in 2007 by the Blues, and was one of their top prospects. He made his NHL debut this past season, recording 2 goals in 7 games. For Peoria Riverman in the AHL, he had 18 goals and 39 assists, with 84 PIMs in 70 games. Schultz was a 3rd round pick in 2008, and has spent the last 4 seasons with the Calgary Hitman.
I’m a little surprised they decided to go with Price over Halak, but more surprised by the timing of it. I thought the Canadiens would hold off until at least draft day to pull something off.
Plenty of free agent rumors and trade options
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 13th, 2010
- Jim Kelly of SportsIllustrated: Kelly throws out a new Blackhawks name as possible trade bait to elevate their cap situation, Marion Hossa and his 12 year, $62.8 million contract. Though it would be hard to see someone biting on the $5.2333 million per season salary hit for the next 11 years.
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Stephens brings up the Tomas Kaberle-for-BobbyRyan rumor again. Ducks GM Bob Murray called it ‘ridiculous.’ The Ducks are still negotiating with Ryan, and waiting to hear what Scott Neidermayer’s decision is on retirement. Stephens thinks if the Leafs were to included Luke Schenn or Nazem Kadri in the conversation, it might make the deal more do-able ….
- Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun: Chicago’s Niklas Hjarmalsson played himself into a top 3 or 4 defenseman, and might get an offer sheet from someone. Bruins scouts are split on Taylor Hall and Tyler Seguin, so it doesn’t appear they’ll push hard for trade with Edmonton for the #1 pick.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: If teams are looking to re-make their teams this off-season throught the free agent market, it isn’t going to happen with this year’s weak crop. It is rumored that Steve Yzerman has talked with the Canadiens about Carey Price. The Canadiens would want scoring in return, Martin St. Louis? Garrioch’s top-10 UFAs: 1.Patrick Marleau 2. Ilya Kovalchuk 3.Scott Niedermayer 4.Tomas Plekanec 5.Evgeni Nabokov 6.Dan Hamhuis 7.Anton Volchenkov 8.Alexander Frolov 9.Sergei Gonchar 10.Marty Turco
- Courier Post: The Flyers have until the end of the month (for exclusive negotiating rights) to decide if Michael Leighton will be their #1 goalie next season as he’ll become a UFA. If they’d like to move in a different direction, potential UFAs that might interest them are; Marty Turco, Evgeni Nabokov. If they go the trade route there are plenty of options; the usual Price or Halak, Tomas Vokoun and Tim Thomas, but the article also mentions Jonathan Quick or Jonathan Bernier, both of the Los Angeles Kings. They could use Jeff Carter as trade bait for a Canadiens or Kings goaltender.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: The Edmonton Oilers will continue to try and trade Ethan Moreau, Patrick O’Sullivan and Robert Nilsson. From June 15th to the 30th, they’ll also have the option to buy each player out for 2/3rds their contract. The Oilers will also try to move Sheldon Souray, possibly to the Sharks who will be looking to replace Rob Blake. Though Souray’s cap number is $5.4 million, his actual salary is $4.5 million. The Oilers have to decide if they which of their 15 Group 2 RFAs they want to qualify.
- Michael Trailkos of the National Post: After posting a 26-7-4 regular season record with a 2.25 GAA, and winning the Stanley Cup, Antti Niemi is looking to be piad like a #1 goalie after just one seaon in the league and won’t be taking a discount. From his agent, “He’s going to get his money,” Zito said. “But the term is going to have something to do with it too.”
- Kevin McGran of the Toronto Star: With only 6 picks in this year’s NHL draft, and no action until #62, Toronto Maple Leaf scouts may have an easy time. But with Brian Burke at the helm, they have to be ready for anything. Head amateur scout, Dave Morrison and his staff have put together their list of top 210 prospects, and are ready to go with any additional picks the Leafs may get. Burke has stated that he’s not actively looking for extra picks, though I’m not entirely sold on that.
Kaberle trade talk heating up … Spezza for the 4th pick? New GMs looking to make moves?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on June 9th, 2010
- Elliotte Friedman of CBC: The Columbus Blue Jackets may be making a stronger push next season to make the playoffs, and could be kicking around the idea of trading their 4th overall draft pick. The Blue Jackets still need to find a center for Rick Nash, and Friedman wonders if they’d consider taking on Jason Spezza’s contract. Michael Leighton may be getting a 3 year contract offer from the Flyers, Friedman doesn’t think it would be for more than $1.5 million. The Florida Panthers may take a crack at Tomas Kaberle, Nathan Horton is a Burke type player.
- John Vogl of the Buffalo News: Sabres GM Darcy Reiger did not want to talk about the rumor that they may be interested in Tomas Kaberle. The Sabres could use a power-play quarterback, and the Leafs could use some scoring. Two players that have to mentioned because of their subpar playoff performances are Tim Connolly and Drew Stafford. There are a few things that instantly pop in to my mind on this; would Burke trade his ‘all star’ dman to a division rival? Both are not ‘Burke’ type players (no toughness). Connolly is making $4.5 million in the last year of his contract and is one hit away from his carrier being over, Stafford hasn’t lived up to his offensive talents the past 2 seasons (34 pts in 71 games this past season, 45 pts in 79 games in 2008-09).
- Michael Traikos in the Montreal Gazette: Even though he loses his no-trade clause for the summer (starting at the Draft) his agent Rick Curran believes Tomas Kaberle still has a clout on where he could end up. “As of the draft, we don’t have a no-trade (clause),” agent Rick Curran said. “But it’s almost effectively a no-trade, because unless Tomas wants to go there most general managers that I’m familiar with are not giving up asset value for a one-year player who may not even want to come to my team. Especially with what Brian wants in return.” It’s being reported that at least 4 teams have inquired about Kaberle; Anaheim, Buffalo, Columbus, and New Jersey.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: With such a weak free agent class, GMs have been more involved with trade talks (salary cap issues also play a big part). Teams with new GMs may be looking to make an early impression as well. Dale Tallon in Florida would like to make some moves, possibly trading Nathan Horton ($4 million cap hit until 2013) and Rostislav Olesz ($3.125 through 2014), but teams would rather have Stephen Weiss and Keith Ballard. Steve Yzerman may make a pitch for Carey Price or Jaroslav Halak. The Oilers would like to move Shawn Horcoff ($5.5 million through 2015) and Sheldon Souray ($5.4 through 2012).
- Bryan Mullen of the Tennessean: Predators GM David Poile thinks it’s going to really tough to re-sign Dan Hamhuis, “I think it’s going to be very difficult,” Poile said. “But I’d like to continue having conversations this week and possibly reach out to Dan next week before we take our final position.” Hamhuis’ agent has said that talks have been positive and ongoing. If they are not able to re-sign Hamhuis, they may look to re-sign Denis Grebeshkov and/or UFA Francis Bouillon. Jonathon Blum or Ryan Ellis may be rushed a little a quicker than they originally wanted. The Predators are trying to lock up Patrick Hornqvist, but salary is hard to determine after 2 goals in 08-09, and 30 last season.
- Tarik El-Bashir via Twitter: The Washington Capitals and Eric Fehr are talking a multi-year deal.
- Ryan Kennedy of the Hockey News: 2010 NHL Draft prospect, Kiril Kabanov, is better known for his off-ice antics than his on-ice talent has seen is stock plummet into the 2nd or 3rd round instead of top 5-10 pick. He’s had issues with the KHL, his QMJHL junior team (Moncton) and the Russian U-18 team, and now must find a new agent, 2 weeks before the draft. JP Barry has decided to move as “It just wasn’t a fit”. George Malik of MLive: Malik notes that Neate Sager of Yahoo, and Bruce Ciski of Fanhouse, think that Red Wings could still be interested in Kabanov, but not in the 1st round.
Kovalchuk offered $14 million per season? Flyers may not re-sign Leighten … Would the Bruins trade Bergeron?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on June 7th, 2010
- Sport-Express.ru: The SKA St. Petersburg reportedly have increased their offer to Ilya Kovalchuk to 3 years and $42 million. It was reported that they previously offered Kovalchuk 3 years and $30 million.
- Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun: Despite helping take the Philadelphia Flyers to game 6 of the Stanley Cup finals (after filling in for Brian Boucher part way through the playoffs … and he may not get the game 6 start), it might not gaurantee that goalie Michael Leighton will re-sign with the Flyers. They may think he’s “a one-trick pony on a magical ride”, and look towards a Turco, Mason, Nabokov, Halak or Price.
- Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe: One option the Bruins have in their quest to find a scoring winger or two, is to consider trading Patrice Bergeron, especially if the Oilers draft Taylor Hall. If the Bruins were to trade him, they would still have a solid one-two punch of Marc Savard and David Krejci, and possibly Tyler Seguin down the middle. Bergeron is a UFA at the end of next season, and is making $4.25 next season, and would be looking for a raise. He has a no-trade clause that kicks in July 1st.
- TSN: Contract talks between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Nikolai Kulemin have hit a wall. It was reported earlier that Kulemin is looking for at least $3 million per season deal. He recorded 36 points in 78 games last season. Burke told AM 640, “While they can say: ‘he was on your first line last year,’ there is no one who would say Nikolai Kulemin is a first line left winger. He’s a first line left winger by default because we did not have a very good team. I’m not paying for someone who gets the position by default.”
- Mark Everson of the NY Post: Craig MacTavish and Mike Keenan appear to be out of the running for the head coaching vacancy in New Jersey. The leading candidates are John MacLean and Michel Therrien, other options are Ken Hitchcock, Kirk Muller, and Guy Boucher. Boucher was offered the coaching position in Columbus.
- Bob McKenzie of TSN: The Blue Jackets would like an answer from Guy Boucher if he wants the head coaching position by Tuesday.
Could Spezza end up in Edmonton? Volchenkov not going to Washington
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 4th, 2010
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Matheson wonders if Jason Spezza would be good fit for the Oilers, and if the same players they offered up for Dany Heatley could get it done? Spezza is due to make $35 million over the next 5 years, so his $7 million salary would basically be the same as Dustin Penner’s ($4.25 million), Ladislav Smid ($1.3 million) and Andrew Cogliano (RFA, $1.13 million last season). The Oilers would then have Spezza and Horcoff down the middle, and could draft Taylor Hall. With the Senators adding Smid, it could help off-set the loss of Anton Volchenkov if they can’t re-sign him.
- Sean Fitz-Gerald (CP) from the Globe and Mail: Jason Spezza told reporters he’s happy in Ottawa, and won’t talk about what was said during his conversation with Bryan Murray as seasons end.
- Kevin Allen of the USA Today: Allen senses the Oilers would prefer a young center over a young winger, therefore maybe favoring Seguin over Hall. This would please the Bruins, but them may consider moving up to ensure they get Hall. Allen wonders if the Lightning would be interested in trading for Carey Price, with the Canadiens trading for a young goalie or drafting Calvin Pickard. Depending on how much Evgeni Nabokov wants (and Marty Turc), the Sharks could go with a Thomas Greiss and Turco combo in net. Allen thinks the Kings will go after Patrick Marleau, instead of Ilya Kovalchuk, mainly due to their familiarity for their San Jose days.
- Michael Russo of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune: The Minnesota Wild’s management and coaching staff have already discussed free agency, and potential trade partner, but they’ll be meeting soon to discuss their own potential roster. Potential young guys that could move up, Nate Prosser, Marco Scandella, Tyler Cuma and Justin Falk. UFA that probably won’t be are Shane Hnidy and John Scott. The Wild are already at about $45.5 million for next year for 15 players, not including RFAs Guillaume Latendresse, Josh Harding and James Sheppard. Those 3 should be re-signed for somewhere inthe $5-6 million range, leaving $7-8 million to fill out the roster. Due to the weak free agent market and limited cap space, trades are more likely than free agent signings.
- Tarik El-Bashir of the Washington Post: It has been rumored that the Washington Capitals were going to take a run at signing Anton Volchenkov in the $5 million per season range. A source close with the team told El-Bashir “are not going to make him an offer”.
- Dave Molinari of Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: It had been rumored that the Penguins were hoping on signing Swedish defeseman Johan Fransson, but his rights are still owned by the LA Kings, and would have had to forfeit those rights by June 1st. It’s also reported that he signed a 2-year deal with Dynamo Minsk of the KHL.
More on the Canadiens … Ryan and Ducks talking … Marleau to Toronto? Jacob Markstrom coming to North America?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 26th, 2010
- Sean Gordon of the Globe and Mail: The Montreal Canadiens will have $13-14 million to fill out 9 roster spots. That is not a lot play when players like Tomas Plekanec, Jaroslav Halak and/or Carey Price are due for raises, if they want to keep them. Gordon thinks Halak’s price could be in the $3.55 million range, similar to Kari Lehtonen. Halak doesn’t want to think hockey right now, saying he needs a vacation. GM Pierre Gauthier will consider all options involving both goalies, even if it won’t be popular with fans. Signing Dominic Moore could be a priority for the team. The Habs will probably look to deal Roman Hamrlik, and the Kostitsyn brothers this summer.
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Bobby Ryan’s agent, Don Meehan, confirmed yesterday that he’s had recent talks with the Anaheim Ducks regarding a contract extension, and expects more meetings in the upcoming weeks. It doesn’t sound like a deal will happen soon, but both sides appear to want to get something worked out over the summer.
- Jeff Blair of the Globe and Mail: Do Globe and Mail writers require a ‘comment quota’ they need to reach each month? The article title says it all “Marleau to Toronto makes sense” … It doesn’t make sense if Marleau wants to win a cup soon. Sure the Leafs would probably love to have this guy, but don’t count on it happening.
- George Richards of the Miami Herald: Panthers GM Dale Tallon met with top goalie prospect Jacob Markstrom about coming over to North America next season. If/when he’s signed, they’d ideally like him to get some action in the AHL to get adjusted to the North American style of play. The Panthers still have Tomas Vokoun and Scott Clemmensen under contract, but if a taker could be found for Vokoun, I’d be surprised if they didn’t move him and have Markstrom battle for the #1 spot.
- Columbus Dispatch: One of the top candidates for the Columbus Blue Jackets head coach position, may also now be a top contender for the Tampa Bay Lightning position. Newly hired GM Steve Yzerman and Kevin Dineen have a strong friendship dating back years. The Blue Jackets are still waiting to meet with Guy Boucher of the AHL Hamilton Bulldogs, who play game 7 tonight.
Wings won’t do anything until Lidstrom decides what he’s doing … Horton trade bait … What will the Canadiens do now?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 25th, 2010
- George Malik of MLive: Red Wings GM Ken Holland told MLive that they can’t re-sign Tomas Holmstrom, Todd Bertuzzi, or any of their 5 RFAs before they hear if Nicklas Lidstrom will be back next season or not. Lidstrom has told the them he’ll let them know in a couple weeks. It doesn’t look like Brett Lebda, Jason Williams, and Doug Janik will be back. Derek Meech should get a qualifying offer from them.
- Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe: Panthers GM Dale Tallon isn’t a fan of players who aren’t willing to pay the price, which means that Nathan Horton could be on his way out, as he known to not have a good work ethic. A Bruin, who has friends on the Panthers has been told that Norton has “No heartbeat”. “We weeded out people who didn’t want to pay the price,” Tallon said. “If you don’t want to pay the price and you don’t want to be involved here, you’re not going to be here.” The Bruins have limited funds available to sign free agents, but could target Flyers winger, Aaron Asham.
- Lyle Richardson of Fox Sports: The Montreal Canadiens currently have 14 players locked up for about $45.7 million. Tomas Plekanec is a UFA and it might take around $5 million to re-sign him. Their biggest off-season situation is obviously what to do with Jaroslav Halak and Carey Price. Halak has shown that he can the #1, but Price could be the future star. RFAs Maxim Lapierre, Tom Pyatt, and Benoit Pouliot should be back. Glen Metropolit, Marc-Andre Bergeron, and Paul Mara probably won’t be back. Halak playoff performance may get himself a contract offer from the Canadiens, maybe in the $3 million range. To clear up some salary space, they may try to get rid of Andrei Kostitsyn (1 year, $3.25 million) and Roman Hamrlik (1 year, $5.5 million), but that could be difficult. One option would be for the Canadiens to package one of them with Carey Price. Buying George Laraque out will free up $1 million. Andrei Markov will be a free agent after next year, and could be shopped around if they think he’ll be out of their price range ($7 million?) or not in their long term plans.
- Mark Purdy of the San Jose Mercury News: It is possible that the Sharks could re-sign both Patrick Marleau and Evgeni Nabokov, but odds are they will only go after 1. Joe Pavelski and Devin Setoguchi will be getting pay increases, and cap space will be disappearing. If they let Nabokov go, they could go with Thomas Greiss and minor leaguer Alex Stalock, or look to bring in a less expensive goalie to challenge for the #1 spot.
- Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer: Carolina Hurricanes majority owner Peter Karmanos Jr. has hired a New York investment firm to help him find a local buyer for a 49% stake in the team. Karmanos former co-owner, Thomas Thewes, passed away a few years ago, he owned the 49% of the team.
Laperriere back soon, Carter unlikely … Offer Sheets out there? Boychuk now a UFA … Sens wanted Cammalleri, got Kovalev
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 18th, 2010
- Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: Flyers winger Ian Laperriere practiced with the team yesterday, and could return later on in the series. Laperriere has been out since April 22nd with a brain bruise and concussion. Jeff Carter skated for the first time since suffering a broken foot on April 20th, though it’s unlikely he’ll be able to return this series.
- Craig Custance of the Sporting News: Will there be any offer sheets or deals similar to last years Bruins-Leafs trade for Phil Kessel? Custance offers a few names that might get some interest: Jaroslav Halak or Carey Price, Joe Pavelski, and Bobby Ryan. I think Pavelski and Ryan will both be re-signed by the the Sharks and Ducks. Price or Halak could be dealt at the draft, with Price the more likely candidate in my opinion.
- Helene St. James of hte Detroit Free Press: Nicklas Lidstrom will let the Detroit Red Wings know in the next few weeks if he will play next season, or retire. “Nick’s told me he’ll give me lots of time prior to July 1 when free agency starts,” Holland said. “I met with him last week, and we talked about the team, and he said he’d give me lots of time before July 1 with his decision.”
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Not much info coming out of Anaheim or the Bobby Ryan camp regarding the RFA. The Ducks will be looking to lock up Ryan long term, but at what cost? Corey Perry and Ryan Getzlaf both signed for around $5.3 million a season, 2 years ago. They would probably like to sign Ryan at a number below what Perry and Getzlaf got.
- Joe Haggerty of CSNNE: Bruins defenseman Johnny Boychuk would have been a restricted free agent this off-season, but due to the fact that he’s played under 80 games, and is 26-years old, he is now a group 6 unrestricted free agent.
- Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: Scott Arniel and Kevin Dineen have been called back for a 2nd interview by the Columbus Blue Jackets for their vacant head coaching position. Red Wings assistant coach, Paul MacLean, should find out today if he’s getting a call back for another interview. Last seasons interim coach, Claude Noel, is still considered a strong candidate even though he won’t have a second interview since they are familar with him.
- Wayne Scanlan of the Ottawa Citizen: At the beginning of last years free agent period, Senators GM Bryan Murray offered Mike Cammalleri a 4 year, $22 million ($5.5 mill. a year) deal. Cammalleri eventually took 5 years and $30 million ($6 mill. a year), and never asked Ottawa if they’d increase their offer. On the bright side Senators fans, that money was used on Alex Kovalev’s 2 year, $10 million deal.
Canucks to look at Kaberle? Leafs interested in Cervenka … “Almost one-third of the teams in the league either is or soon will be put up for sale”
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 12th, 2010
- Damien Cox of the Toronto Star: The Vancouver Canucks blueline took a beating during the playoffs, and throughout most of the season. Alex Edler looks to be a corner piece for the team, but they still could use a true puck moving defenseman. Cox brings up Tomas Kaberle, who could fit that bill, and has been mentioned to Vancouver before the trade deadline. I’m sure this will come up plenty of times throughout the summer, and Cody Hodgson’s name will most likely be attached to it often.
- Damien Cox of the Toronto Star: The Toronto Maple Leafs are looking at signing Czech forward, Roman Cervenka, a decision won’t be made until after the World Championships. Cervenka’s name gained popularity since Jaromir Jagr began singing his praise, and it was rumored that if he was to come back to the NHL, he wanted to be ‘packaged’ with Cervenka.
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: There is a rumor out there that NY Islanders owner Charles Wang is getting a loan/advance from the NHL, and that they might be helping run the Islanders like they did for the Coyotes before they bought him. Brooks contacted Bill Daly asking questions about the rumor, Daly said they are not involved with the Islanders, have not be ‘given’ the team, and have not advanced or loaned money to the team.
- Ken Campbell of The Hockey News: Campbell reports that there are rumors that “almost one-third of the teams in the league either is or soon will be put up for sale“. It’s not just the Coyotes, Stars, and Thrashers. Kings owner Philip Anschutz may be tired of losing money in LA, but he does own the building in Kansas City. The Predators are always looking for money. The Hurricanes and Devils could be available in the near future. Some teams operating losses are between $20-$30 million a season. Islanders owner Charlie Wang has been trying to get his ‘Lighthouse’ project going for years, without much luck, and may soon lose his patience and sell/move his team.
- Erik Erlendsson of the Tampa Bay Tribune: The Lightning are still without a GM, but their remaining staff is still looking ahead to the NHL Draft in June. Their going with the plan of drafting the ‘best player available’ regardless of position. A good decision for them as they could use help at all positions. The Lightning are picking 6th overall.
- Rejean Tremblay of the Cyberpresse: So it looks like Jaroslav is the main man in Montreal these days, but it still might not get him a huge payday from the Canadiens. Though it could be really bit them in butt if they he is traded or signs an offer sheet and it’s not matched, and outplays Carey Price. There are many out there that still think that Price will be a better long term goalie than Halak. But for the time being, Halak is the toast of Montreal.
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