Posts Tagged Carolina Hurricanes
Flyers looking for a goalie? Wings would like a forward … Burke won’t fire Wilson … Leafs one team interested in Roy … Bruins looking for top 9, and Dman
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on February 26th, 2012
- The Fourth Period: A source is saying the Flyers are actively looking for a number 1 goalie. The source is saying they could package Sergei Bobrovsky and possibly James van Riemsdyk for the right goaltender. The Flyers could be looking at Nikolai Khabibulin, JS Giguere and Ondrej Pavelec. It’s unclear if the Jets would part with Pavelec, who’ll be a RFA at the end of the year.
- Helene St. James via twitter: The Red Wings would like to add a forward, but there’s not a lot teams selling, and the prices are high.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Brian Burke on calls for Ron Wilson’s firing, “I’m not contemplating a coaching change.”
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Many teams are intersted in Avs UFAs David Jones and Daniel Winnik, and RFA T.J. Galiardi.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Teams like the Stars and Avalanche are thinking about getting into the playoffs, but they are also thinking about how to build a team that can contend in the future.
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: Islanders GM Garth Snow is acting like the Islanders are still pushing for the playoffs, people saying his asking prices are huge.
- Renaud Lavoie via twitter: Sabres Derek Roy is getting interest from the Maple Leafs and others.
- Kevin Paul Dupont of the Boston Globe: The Bruins hope to add someone that can play on one of their top 3 lines. and a defenseman that can log some minutes.
”I think those deals are there to do,” said Chiarelli. ”You’re never sure, but….I’d like to be further along in some of these discussions, down to the short strokes, but yes, right now, I think we are getting closer and there are one or two deals we could close.”
One player the Bruins could be looking at is Sammy Pahlsson. Jaroslav Spacek could be an option along the blueline.
”My motivating factors are, first of all, depth,” said Chiarelli, when asked his target areas. ”And then injury, especially to our forwards. Both Nathan (Horton) and (Rich Peverley) remain out, and though we expect both are going to be back, you have to make sure you are covered.”
Afternoon rumors involving: Grabovski, Senators, Hurricanes, Bruins, Oduya, Harding, Steen and Ducks
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 26th, 2012
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Mikhail Grabovski’s agent: “We understand their position and I believe that they understand our position, we are more than fair.” … “Mikhail wants to play for the Leafs for many years & win the Stanley Cup with them and I absolutely agree with him. “
- Howard Berger via twitter: Leafs source: “Tons of chatter, but nothing close to worthwhile.”
- Ian Mendes via twitter: Senators GM Bryan Murray when asked about adding a depth forward, “we don’t have an immediate target.”
- Chip Alexander via twitter: Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford said it’s hard to predict how active they’ll be over the next 24 hours. Said there is the possibility of a “hockey trade.” Added, “It’s hard to find players now, at the deadline or in the offseason.”
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: The Bruins are looking for a forward and a defenseman. They have interest in Avalanche forwards Daniel Winnik, T.J. Galiardi and David Jones. Jets defenseman Johnny Oduya is getting interest, but they are back in the playoff race. With the Blues getting a 2nd round pick for Ben Bishop, the Wild may do better for Josh Harding.
- Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: Blues Alex Steen had been practicing, but shut it down last week. Skating led to vision problems. He’ll be heading to California for at least 2 weeks to receive treatment in a hyperbaric chamber, similar to what Andy McDonald and Paul Kariya did.
- Lisa Dillman of the LA Times: The Ducks may have a quiet trade deadline.
Morning rumors involving: Maple Leafs, Wild, Sabres, Islanders, Blackhawks, Hurricanes, Stars, Red Wings and Predators
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 26th, 2012
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: The Maple Leafs, Penguins and Senators are checking out the goalie market.The Pens and Sens are looking for depth, and have shown interest in Josh Harding. The Wild are looking for a top pick and prospect. The Leafs have talked to the Islanders about Evgeni Nabokov, but GM Garth Snow is saying he won’t be moved. There is plenty of interest in Sabres Derek Roy. The Leafs, Canadiens, Blackhawks and Kings were interested in Antoine Vermette before he was dealt to Phoenix. The Canadiens could be open to trading center Tomas Plekanec. The Islanders want to wait until after today’s game to decide whether they are buyers or sellers. P.A. Parenteau is interested in re-signing with the Islanders, but the Senators, Blackhawks, Bruins and Maple Leafs have shown interest in him. If the Hurricanes are able to re-sign Bryan Allen, they may move Jaroslav Spacek. It’s sounding like Steve Ott won’t be moved, Canucks and Leafs interested. Looking like Mike Ribeiro could be moved.
- The Fourth Period: One league executive is saying the Maple Leafs are looking to add 2 top 6 forwards, which may result in the Leafs dealing Mikhail Grabovski. It’s looking unlikely that he’ll be re-signing with the Leafs before the deadline. The Leafs have been offered a 2nd and a prospect. The Leafs are also eyeing Steve Ott, James van Riemsdyk and Paul Stastny.
- Chris Kuc of the Chicago Tribune: Jonathan Toews upper body injury is progressing. There is a chance he plays on Wednesday. Same goes for Niklas Hjalmarsson.
- Arthur Staple via twitter: The Islanders have a couple inquiries on Brian Rolston, so it won’t be a surprise if he gets claimed off waivers.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Don’t expect to see Red Wings Patrick Eaves back this season. He’s been out with a broken jaw and is still having headaches.
- Ansar Khan of MLive: Red Wings coach Mike Babcock likes his roster, but realizes you can’t have enough depth up front.
“We’re all focused on if we can improve our team,” Babcock said. “At the same time, we like our team. If there’s something there that can help us and makes sense, then that’s a great thing.
“Change just to change isn’t going to be the approach. We’ve already done a good job in giving ourselves depth on the back end (by acquiring defenseman Kyle Quincey on Tuesday). We want to get healthy up front, but if there’s something available to make us better, we’d like to acquire that.”
A list of players could include: Travis Moen, Paul Gaustad, Sammy Pahlsson, Steve Ott, Mike Knuble and Mikael Samuelsson.
- Josh Cooper of the Tennessean: Predators GM David Poile:
“This trading deadline is not setting up anywhere near the same, in my memory, as past trading deadline,” Poile said. “Now we have more situations where more teams are in the playoffs or ‘I’m two points out of the playoffs … I’m not sure If I’m a buyer or a seller.’ What we know for sure is how close the standings are and it’s really hard to identify very many sellers at this point.”
The Predators continue to look for a forward.
“We certainly could use more depth on our forwards,” Poile said. “You talk two things, a higher-end deal for a top-six or top-nine forward or you talk about your depth.”
Leaf notes on Grabovski, goalies, Armstrong, Gustavsson … Ott a hot commodity … Isles-Nabokov still talking … ‘Canes trying to re-sign Allen
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News on February 25th, 2012
- Eric Francis via twitter: Source told Francis this morning that the Maple Leafs could be sellers if they don’t play well tonight.
- Eric Francis via twitter: The Leafs have been offered a 1st round pick for Mikhail Grabovski.
- Spector’s Hockey via twitter: Glenn Healy thinks the Maple Leafs should pursue Andres Lindback or Evgeni Nabokov.
- Daren Millard via twitter: The Kings, Canucks and Sharks may have interest in Maple Leafs Colby Armstrong.
- Eric Francis via twitter: The Leafs haven’t ruled out re-signing Jonas Gustavsson this summer.
- Eric Francis via twitter: The Leafs talked to the Oilers about Nikolai Khabibulin, but it was a short conversation. They don’t have an interest in Tomas Vokoun.
- Eric Francis via twitter: The most sought after player out there right now is Stars Steve Ott. Francis thinks the Canucks will get him.
- Todd Cordell via twitter: Bob McKenzie reported that Canucks are getting into the trade market. May have interest in Steve Ott, Dustin Brown and Rick Nash.
- Daren Millard via twitter: The Islanders and Evgeni Nabokov had contact talks again today. Agent said they’ll talk again tomorrow which should determine if he’ll become available on Monday or not.
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: The Hurricanes are attempting to re-sign Bryan Allen, but it isn’t going well. He could be in play again.
- Ryan Leslie via twitter: Leslie spoke with Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff who said he’s a buyer if it doesn’t hurt the teams future.
- Ben Kuzma via twitter: The Stars owner said they are willing to move out veteran players to get younger.
- Brian Hedger via twitter: Red Wings defenseman Jonathan Ericsson is out a month with a fractured wrist.
Bruins looking for impact player … Blues not shopping Stewart … Quincey speaks about Avs … Lecavalier out 3 weeks
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 24th, 2012
- James Murphy of ESPN: Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli may have changed his tune and could be after adding an impact player before the deadline. Nathan Horton’s concussion, Rich Peverley’s knee injury, and their lackluster play since January have all lead to this switch. They have $13.2 million in cap space that Chiarelli can add, but he may be hesitant to trade for a short-term rental as prices are currently “through the roof.” Players the Bruins could look at are forwards Ales Hemsky, Milan Hejduk, Kyle Okposo and defenseman Lubomir Visnovsky, Jaroslav Spacek and Johnny Oduya.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Strickland doesn’t think the Blues are shopping Chris Stewart, but you can assume his name as come up. AHL goalie, Ben Bishop, will come up in rumors, with the Lightning potentially interested. One source thought the Blues would eventually got Steve Downie for Bishop and a draft pick. Jets defenseman Ron Hainsey may be a fit for someone looking to bolster their blueline. He has a $4.5 million cap hit, but is only owed $3 million in salary next year. One Bruins source wondered if the Bruins would look at getting Michael Ryder back from the Stars. The Bruins will focus on re-signing Tuukka Rask. Sources are saying that the Canadiens won’t move Travis Moen. Contract extension talks haven’t begun yet though. Ryan Smyth will likely sign an extension with the Oilers.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Kyle Quincey after being traded to the Red Wings:
“Everyone is ready to get shipped out any day. There’s a lot of guys, their bags are packed beside the door, and they wouldn’t be unhappy to go – trust me. I know I had a big smile on my face, and all the guys were jealous. I think there’s a bunch of guys that were pissed off they weren’t in a package deal”
“I truly believe, if you have confidence in a player, then give it to them, show it to them,” Quincey said. “When there’s so much uncertainty if those guys are going to be there next year, it would be nice for guys to get extensions. But that’s their policy, and that’s what they do. Confidence, it comes and goes, and when it goes, it’s pretty tough to get it back.”
- Damian Cristodero of the Tampa Bay Times: Lightning center Vinny Lecavalier could be out for 3 weeks after an MRI revealed a fractured bone in a his right hand.
- Sam Carchidi via twitter: Sean Couturier is day-to-day with a lower body injury.
- Dennis Bernstein via twitter: The Kings are bringing up Slava Voynov after trading Jack Johnson.
- David Pagnotta via twitter: Scouting the Maple Leafs – Sharks game: 2 Winnipeg, Avalanche, Oilers, Blackhawks, Canucks, Penguins, Blues, Rangers, Coyotes, Lightning, Senators and Bruins.
Kings discussing Bernier and Brown … Teams in on Ott … Leafs have a bunch going on … Nabokov-Isles talking … Anderson cuts hand
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL Rumors on February 23rd, 2012
- Dennis Bernstein via twitter: Bob McKenzie said that Kings are in trade discussions involving Jonathan Bernier and Dustin Brown, though nothing is close.
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: There is plenty of talk involving Stars Steve Ott. Teams that are showing interest: Canucks, Leafs and Flyers, but the Stars want a significant piece back. Todd Cordell via twitter: McKenzie said on TSN 1050 that the Canucks are “big time in on Steve Ott.”
- Todd Cordell via twitter: Leafs GM Brian Burke on NHL Home Ice: “We’ve got a bunch of stuff going but nothing that feels imminent, no.”
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Islanders GM Garth Snow and Evgeni Nabokov’s agent, Don Meehan, spoke today and will meet again. Nothing imminent.
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: Senators goalie Craig Anderson cut his hand at home and is expected to miss a few games.
- Jesse Rogers via twitter: Scouting the Blackhawks – Stars: 2 Blues, Kings, Jets, Hurricanes and others.
State of the Winnipeg Jets: NHL Trade Deadline Edition
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 23rd, 2012
Written by Mark Shannon, who can be found on twitter at @MarkShannon64
The Winnipeg Jets were the story of the summer and now they’re making a push for the playoffs, and are in the weak Southeast Division where they sit tied for 3rd in the Eastern conference with the Florida Panthers for the division lead. They have a solid home record of 18-9-3 and the MTS Centre is rocking every game and night.
This is Kevin Cheveldayoff’s first season at the helm of the Winnipeg Jets and it will be his first trade deadline, yes the Jets are sitting in a tight race to make the playoffs, but do they spend big or do they spend small and bring in small pieces to make the playoffs. Their defence and goaltending is starting to come together and they’re playing good hockey.
The Jets definitely need some size up the middle and a number 1 centre would give them a huge boost, because Burmistrov and Little although extremely talented are both #2 centres in most peoples eyes, How much do you spend on a centre without going against the plan from the beginning, there are a few names out there that might interest the Jets.
Twitter notes: Ott, Hemsky, Nabokov, Spacek, Radulov, Wisniewski, Wallace, Bertuzzi … Stars, Oilers, and Devils lines … starting goalies
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Starting Goalies on February 23rd, 2012
- Tracey Myers via twitter: Stars forward Steve Ott on trade rumors: “It’s a compliment if teams are calling and asking for u but it’s nervewracking b/c you’ve been here for a long time.”
- Jason Gregor via twitter: Gregor is hearing that Oilers forward Ales Hemsky would consider a 2 year deal at $10 – $11 million.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: The Islanders and Evgeni Nabokov continue contract talks this afternoon.
- Chip Alexander via twitter: Alexander thinks that Jaroslav Spacek gets traded, and that Bryan Allen stays.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: KHL’s Salavat pursuing Kuznetsov implies that Alex Radulov will leave for the NHL this summer. Chesnokov via twitter: (responding to my question) Alexander Radulov won’t return to the NHL this season, as he is set to play for Russia at the World Championships after the KHL season ends.
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: Blue Jackets defenseman James Wisniewski is projected to be in the lineup tomorrow against the Avalanche.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: The Lightning have claimed Tim Wallace off waivers from the Islanders.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Todd Bertuzzi’s 2 year contract: $1.975 million next year, $2.175 million the following year. $2.075 million cap hit.
- Mike Heika via twitter: Stars lines: Eriksson-Ribeiro-Ryder. Ott-Wandell-Vincour. Nostrum-Fiddler-Dvorak. Petersen-Garbutt-Burish.
- Dan Tencer via twitter: Oilers lines: Hall-Horcoff-Hemsky, Smyth-Gagner-Eberle, Paajarvi-Belanger-Eager and Hordichuk-Lander-Petrell.
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Devils lines: Parise-Henrique-Kovalchuk; Sykora-Elias-Clarkson; Ponikarovsky-Zubrus-Bernier; Carter-Josefson-Palmieri; Boulton-Veilleux-Janssen.
- Iain MacIntyre via twitter: Roberto Luongo will start in net against the Red Wings. Cory Schneider will start on Friday against the Devils.
- David Alter via twitter: Looks like Antti Niemi will start in net for the Sharks. Elliotte Friedman via twitter: James Reimer will start in net for the Leafs.
- Chip Alexander via twitter: Justin Peters will start in net for the Hurricanes tonight.
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Martin Brodeur will start in net for the Devils on Friday against the Canucks.
State of the Carolina Hurricanes: NHL Trade Deadline Edition
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 23rd, 2012
This post was co-written by Mark Jones (Twitter: @CanesReport), an NHL Featured Columnist for Bleacher Report, and Joe Gustainis (Twitter: @jgusta21).
Months ago, the Carolina Hurricanes appeared poised for a February fire-sale of epic proportions. The ‘Canes stood in last place in the Eastern Conference, Eric Staal couldn’t break out of his disastrous slump, and Jeff Skinner was on injured reserve; essentially, the season was dead. But GM Jim Rutherford did have a number of upcoming free agents under his belt, including hot commodities like Tim Gleason and Tuomo Ruutu, and the frenzy of trade offers was just beginning.
Nowadays, though, Carolina’s outlook on the trade deadline is quite a bit cloudier.
The aggressive forecheck and precise set plays that head coach Kirk Muller began to implement back in December have caught fire, allowing the Hurricanes to earn points in 11 of their last 13 games and crawl within seven points of the playoff line.
Moreover, Gleason was re-signed by Rutherford earlier this month to a new four-year, $16 million contract including a no-trade clause, taking the stay-at-home defenseman fully off the market. Ruutu soon followed suit, as well, receiving a four-year $19 million extension just Wednesday.
Ruutu re-signs with Canes … Most Avs up for grabs … Kings like Pominville and Stafford … Sabres trying to re-sign Gaustad
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 22nd, 2012
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Tuomo Ruutu and the Carolina Hurricanes have agreed to a 4 year contract extension with a salary cap hit of $4.75 million.
- Adrian Dater via twitter: From some high ranking people “almost everyone on Avs in play except three or four guys.” If the Avalanche were to trade Paul Stastny, they need to take back almost as much salary to stay above the salary floor. Highly unlikely. Capgeek: The Avs can’t take back more than $3.9 million in cap hits without taking salary back.
- Dennis Bernstain via twitter: The Kings are interested in Sabres forwards Jason Pominville and Drew Stafford.
- Nick Cotsonika via twitter: The Sabres are trying to re-sign center Paul Gaustad.
- Calgary Flames via twitter: Flames Chris Butler will be out 3 weeks with a left thigh laceration.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: The Islanders put Tim Wallace on waivers.
Quick hits on: Blue Jackets, Ott, Harding, Hurricanes, Avery, Bertuzzi, Radulov, Sharks and Prust
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 22nd, 2012
- Darren Dreger via twitter: Blue Jackets GM Scott Howson said that ownership has been very supportive so far, and that trade talks have become more focused. He also noted that he’s received lots of “creativity” in trade interest with several of their players.
- Kevin Allen via twitter: There may be more interest in Stars Steve Ott if he wasn’t making $3.2 million next year.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: The Wild have recalled goalie Matt Hackett due to a Josh Harding minor injury. It’s not trade related.
- Chip Alexander via twitter: Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford said he did not set a deadline day for re-signing Tuomo Ruutu. Some assumed that he did since he mentioned he expected a decision by mid-week. Rutherford added: “We’ve worked very hard on it and gone as far as we can go. We’re hoping he’s staying and will get a positive answer from him.” He also said he didn’t expect to be active leading up to the deadline. “I say that now, but you can get surprised.” The Hurricanes also hope to get Joni Pitkanen back in the lineup in the next 10 days.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: One of the Sharks star players wouldn’t be opposed to them adding Sean Avery, saying the veterans could handle him. Sharks management may not be on the same page as their star player though.
- Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: The Red Wings and Todd Bertuzzi are closing in on a 2 year contract extension worth close to $2.2 million per season.
- Slava Malamud via twitter: Alexander Radulov is saying the Predators are “pressing” him to return to the NHL.
- Nick Cotsonika via twitter: From Cotsonika’s interview with Sharks GM Wilson, he said that the early deals are the best but “sellers can sometimes dictate that if they’re going to put a guy on the market or not.” In other words, Wilson may prefer to make a big deal in the summer.
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: The Rangers have begun talks with pending free agent Brandon Prust. Other Rangers free agents are Ruslan Fedotenko, Martin Biron, Steve Eminger, John Mitchell and Jeff Woywitka.
Leafs Dmen getting interest … Avs knew Quincey would be flipped … Stars getting calls on Ott and Ribeiro … Hemsky’s worth … plus more notes
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 22nd, 2012
- Darren Dreger of TSN: The Maple Leafs blueline continues to get interest. Jake Gardiner is not available. Teams are looking at Luke Schenn, but Burke won’t move him unless they get an offer he can’t refuse. Carl Gunnarsson, Cody Franson and Keith Aulie are getting interest. The Blackhawks, Red Wings, Devils, Oilers and Jets are looking for defenseman. The Oilers are looking for a roster player for Ales Hemsky, which is too steep for many given his struggles.
- John Shannon via twitter: Avalanche GM Greg Sherman knew that Lightning GM Steve Yzerman was going to flip Kyle Quincy to a Western Conference team, but didn’t know where.
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: The Stars have gotten calls on Steve Ott and Mike Ribeiro, and would consider moving them if the price is right. Ribeiro has a limited no trade clause, he selects 10 teams he won’t go to. Ribeiro has one more year left on his deal with a $5 million cap hit. Ott has 2 years left on his deal with a $2.95 million cap hit, but a salary of $3.2 million. GM Joe Nieuwendyk is looking at the big picture and is looking long-term. LeBrun notes that he could make a move or 2 that surprises people.
- Scott Burnside of ESPN: Ales Hemsky is available but comes with “a lack of durability and questionable work ethic.” He hasn’t scored in 16 games, so his asking price is modest now. It may take a small collection of mid-round picks and/or a prospect. Possible teams interested are: Rangers, Predators, Bruins, Kings and Red Wings.
- Helene St. James via twitter: Red Wings GM Ken Holland: Wings “are done on defense.”
- Rob Longley via twitter: Colby Armstrong was a healthy scratch last night again. You have to wonder what the rest of the season holds for him.
- Chris Botta via twitter: Evgeni Nabokov will get his $2-$3 million, but he needs to know if Rick DiPietro is still in the plans to get NHL starts while rehabbing.
- Dave Hilson of the Toronto Sun: Maple Leafs center Mikhail Grabovski hasn’t heard anything regarding contract talks between his agent and the Leafs. He’d like to stay in Toronto.
- Pat Leonard of the NY Daily News: Rangers forward Wojtek Wolski on is name in trade rumors:
“I know I’m supposed to be getting traded, I hear it all the time,” said Wolski, who becomes a restricted free agent after his two-year, $7.6 million expires at the end of the season. “I know I have a big contract. If they could trade me and free some space and get some value, I’m sure it’s possible. But I have no control over any of that.”
- Helene Elliott via twitter: Scouting the Kings-Coyotes: 2 Lightning, Blue Jackets, Blues, Hurricanes, Stars, Canucks, Avalanche and Rangers.
State of the Ottawa Senators: Trade Deadline Edition
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on February 21st, 2012
Written by Travis Ramsay
Heading into the 2011-12 season the Senators were picked by many to finish dead last. Last years trade deadline saw the team unload players for draft picks to start what looked like a long and arduous rebuilding process. The Sens have turned out to be one of the biggest surprises of the season. As I write out this article, Ottawa (31-22-8) sits securely in seventh place, only 2 points behind Boston in the race for the Northeast Division lead and 6 points ahead of both Toronto and Winnipeg, who are in 8th and 9th respectively.
The Senators have been able to find success due to resurgences from many members of their veteran core. Chris Phillips is on pace to more than double his point total from last season and is a plus player again after finishing -35 last year. Veterans Gonchar, Kuba, Neil, Foligno, Michalek and Alfredsson have all also matched or surpassed their point totals from last year at the 3/4 season mark this year.
In net Craig Anderson has stepped up his level of play from being just okay on a team that is still defensively immature to being stellar and making the big saves when his team makes mistakes in front of him. Anderson has 2 shutouts in is last three starts and ranks amongst the league leaders in wins.
Twitter quick hits involving: Ruutu, Kuznetsov, Eaton, Nabokov, Lecavalier, Datsyuk, Wisniewski, Langenbrunner, Koivu and Conklin
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Starting Goalies on February 21st, 2012
- Darren Dreger via twitter: The Hurricanes are waiting for Tuomo Ruutu to decide on their contract offer. They need to know by Wednesday, as he’ll likely be back on the trade block if he doesn’t re-sign.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Capitals prospect Evgeni Kuznetsov said that he’d stay in Russia if offered a 10 year contract. Kuznetsov wants “to be sure you’d stay in one place, develop in the same city, plan ahead.”
- Arthur Staple via twitter: Islanders defenseman Mark Eaton told Staple that he did not ask for a trade. Chris Botta via twitter: If Eaton isn’t traded, it’s because teams decided he wasn’t worth a 3rd or 4th round pick.
- Chris Botta via twitter: A source is saying the Islanders are offering Evgeni Nabokov a choice of a 1 or 2 year contract. They hope to sign him to a 2 year deal. Spector’s Hockey via twitter: Nabokov has a no movement clause. Snow said he won’t trade him. Don’t assume he’d waive the NMC, as the 2 sides are talking.
- Damian Cristodero via twitter: Lightning center Vinny Lecavalier left their dressing room with a soft cast on his right hand/wrist.
- Helene St. James via twitter: Red Wings forward Pavel Datsyuk is out 2 weeks after knee surgery. GM Holland added: “It’ll be a couple of weeks, minimum, three weeks, maximum.”
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: Blue Jackets defenseman James Wisniewski has a groin injury.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Blues forward Jamie Langenbrunner will be out 4 weeks with a broken foot.
- Michael Russo via twitter: Wild center Mikko Koivu skated before practice, and it’s 50-50 that he goes on their road trip.
- Tim Wharnsby via twitter: Red Wings goalie Ty Conklin clears waivers.
- Mike Heika via twitter: Kari Lehtonen will start in net for the Stars tonight. Stars lines: Eriksson-Ribeiro-Ryder. Ott-Wandell-Vincour. Nystrom-Fiddler-Dvorak. Garbutt-Dowell-Burish.
- James Mirtle via twitter: Jonas Gustavsson will start in net tonight for the Maple Leafs. Carl Gunnarsson will be back in the lineup.
State of the Washington Capitals: NHL Trade Deadline Edition
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 21st, 2012
Written by Jeff Kleiman of Capitals Outsider (@J_dizzle_caps) and Jake Ware of DC Pro Sports Report (@JacobWare95).
Through 59 games of the 2011/12 NHL season, the perennial playoff contending Washington Capitals sit in ninth place in the Eastern Conference with a decidedly average 29-24-5 record. The Caps look like a shell of the team that they once were, and with the trade deadline now on the horizon, General Manager George McPhee is likely to be very active as he prepares his team for the long months ahead.
With some big free agent signings this past offseason, fans and journalists were lauding the Caps, naming them as runaway Stanley Cup favorites. But with the team not nearly playing up to expectations (despite sprinting out to a 7-0-0 start), the Capitals fired Bruce Boudreau and brought in team legend Dale Hunter to take over behind the bench. They are 17-15-4 since the change, and are still struggling to keep up in the playoff race.
With the Florida Panthers pacing the Southeast Division and the Winnipeg Airplanes hot on their tail, this year’s trade deadline is shaping up to become the most important one in recent memory for the Caps. If they want to bring back the crown they have owned for the past four seasons, the Caps must improve at the deadline.
Blue Jackets getting closer … Vultures circling Avs … Roy can be had … Ward out with LBI … Nabokov – Isles to talk contract
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 20th, 2012
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: Blue Jackets GM Scott Howson: “We’re waiting for the right deals. We’re getting closer. But we’re not there yet.”
- The Globe and Mail: Burke has said he isn’t interested in adding a goalie at this point. They could look for one in the summer. Jhonas Enroth or Anders Lindback or any other goalie not going to Columbus could be available.
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: “The vultures are circling around the Avs.” They could begin selling soon.
- Rob Longley of the Toronto Sun: The Sabres are looking to move Derek Roy. Flyers GM Paul Holmgren said he won’t be looking to add another goalie.
“I like our goalies,” Holmgren said, presumably with a straight face. “They believe they are going to play better. They are not happy with their performances either. They both realize they have to play better.”
Colorado could be sellers by the end of the week, and JS Giguere could be available. He carries $1.25 million cap hit, and has 1 year left on his deal.
- Bucky Gleason of the Buffalo News: Derek Roy’s days in Buffalo could be numbered. He has another year at $4 million, which may make him attractive to some.
“Right now, this is my team,” Roy said. “I’m not a GM. I have no idea what they’re going to do. All I can do is play for my team, play for my linemates, go out every night like it was my first year and play as hard as I can every game.”
- Tim Wharnsby via twitter: Ty Conklin has been put on waivers by the Red Wings.
- Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer: Justin Peters will start in net for the Hurricanes tonight as Cam Ward is out with a lower-body injury. “I’m not going to take any chances (with Ward),” Muller said. “We’ve got a lot of games in March. … We need to assess (the injury) and stay on it and make sure it doesn’t get worse. Before he goes back in the net he needs to be 100 percent and ready to go.”
- Arthur Staple of Newsday: Evgeni Nabokov’s agent, Don Meehan, said that negotiations with the Islanders will “start soon.” Isles GM Garth Snow would not comment.
- Erik Erlendsson via twitter: Lightning center Vinny Lecavalier left practice with a lingering upper-body injury. It’s not believed to be serious.
- Gene Principe via twitter: Oilers goalie Nikolai Khabibulin will be out 7-10 days with a groin injury. Yann Danis has been recalled. Dan Tencer via twitter: Potential trade partners for Khabibulin don’t like the extra year on his deal.
- Jeff Veillette via twitter: The Blue Jackets and Senators are scouting the Leafs AHL team today.
- Stephen Whyno via twitter: Capitals lines: Ovechkin-Perreault-Brouwer, Chimera-Johansson-Semin, Hendricks-Laich-Knuble, Beagle-Halpern-Ward.
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: Craig Anderson will start in net for the Senators. Zenon Konopka and Matt Carkner are scratches.
- Erik Erlendsson via twitter: Mathieu Garon will start in net for the Lightning tomorrow against the Ducks.
- Rob Longley via twitter: Jonas Gustavsson will start in net for the Maple Leafs tomorrow. Joffrey Lupul and Carl Gunnarsson will be in.
Pens would like a 40 goal scorer, but … Sens interested in Ruutu, listening to offers on Kuba and Gonchar … Buyers, Sellers, etc … Havlat skating
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 20th, 2012
- Dejan Kovacevic of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: Penguins GM Ray Shero:
“We’re playing well, getting healthy, and that means more than anything. If I could get a 40-goal scorer or something that makes sense, I’d do that. But …”
Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Many are looking to see what Senators GM Bryan Murray will do. The Senators are interested in Tuomo Ruutu, along with the Bruins, Rangers, Flyers, Blackhawks and Predators. Though there are some reports that he’s off the market, one executive said Saturday that he wasn’t. To get Ruutu could be costly, a top prospect (perhaps Mark Stone or Stefan Noesen) and a 1st round pick, which is not going to happen. The Senators have been listening to offers for Filip Kuba. It’s doubtful that it happens, but is possible. Sergei Gonchar could also get dealt.
- Kevin McGran of the Toronto Star: McGran lists teams that will be buyers, sellers or will stand pat. Buyers: Rangers, Maple Leafs, Flyers, Capitals, Sharks, Canucks, Kings, Predators, Blackhawks, Devils and Stars. Sellers: Blue Jackets, Hurricanes, Oilers, Lightning, Sabres, Wild and Canadiens. Standing Pat: Red Wings, Flames, Islanders, Senators, Jets, Ducks, Bruins, Panthers, Penguins, Blues, Coyotes and Avalanche. Hot Commodities: Rick Nash, Ryan Suter, Jeff Carter, Luke Schenn, Sam Gagner and Ryan Miller. Buyer Beware: Scott Gomez, Rick DiPietro, Alexander Semin, Dustin Penner and Brad Boyes. Coveted Young Players: Cory Schneider, Jonathan Bernier, Sergei Bobrovski, James van Riemsdyk, Jake Gardiner, Cody Hodgson, Michael Del Zotto and Ryan McDonagh
- Randy Miller via twitter: Miller doesn’t think the chances of the Flyers re-signing Matt Carle are good.
- David Pollak via twitter: Sharks winger Marty Havlat is skating in San Jose and is aiming for a mid-March return.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Oilers goalie Nikolai Khabibulin didn’t finish last night’s game after he tweaked his groin, but it may also have been exhaustion. Canucks defenseman Keith Ballard is out with concussion symptoms.
- Rich Chere of the Star-Ledger: The Devils have put defenseman Adam Larsson on the IR, and have recalled Peter Harrold.
- Michael Russo via twitter: The Wild have re-signed Kyle Brodziak to a 3 year deal worth $8.49 million.
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.
Afternoon rumors involving: Blue Jackets, Jets, Sabres, Canadiens, Bruins, Flyers, Rangers, Kings, Avalanche, Islanders, Crosby, Hunter and starting goalies
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 17th, 2012
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: The Blue Jackets don’t expect to make any trades this weekend, but one phone call could change that.
- Tim Campbell of the Winnipeg Free Press: Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff said yesterday there’s no doubt he’s a buyer. “I’m always going to be trying to acquire assets. I’m always looking to make our team better for the future.” “It’s not just other teams asking about (our young players),” he said. “There are a lot of things that are talked about.” Cheveldayoff said there hasn’t been any contract extension talk with any of their pending UFAs: Jim Slater, Tanner Glass, Kyle Wellwood, Tim Stapleton, Johnny Oduya, Randy Jones, Mark Flood and Chris Mason.
- Scott Burnside and Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: Burnside thinks it’s time for the Sabres to start making some deals. The Canadiens should find a taker for Hal Gill and perhaps Andrei Kostitsyn. Travis Moen and Chris Campoli could also be moved. The Bruins and Rangers will both be looking to add some depth along the blueline. A source said the Flyers could also be looking at adding another Dman. Hurricanes Bryan Allen and Jaroslav Spacek will be UFAs. Luke Schenn could be had if it helps the Leafs land a top 6 forward. The Kings Jack Johnson could be in play, but they’d need to get a top forward back
- Adrian Deter of the Denver Post: Dater thinks the Avalanche will move a defenseman, with Shane O’Brien making sense. Dater also thinks teams will be interested Ryan Wilson, Ryan O’Byrne and Kyle Quincey.
- David Hutchinson of the Star Ledger: The Devils are looking for a veteran defenseman. Marek Zidlicky is one possibility, and he’s already waived his no trade clause for them.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: The Islanders are looking for a top 4 defenseman.
- Pens Inside Scoop via twitter: Penguins Sidney Crosby skated with teammates today because of ice time availability. No change in his status.
- Joe Haggerty via twitter: Bruins forward Rich Peverley is out 4 to 6 weeks with a grade 3 MCL sprain in his right knee.
- Renaud Lavoie via twitter: The Kings have put Trent Hunter on waivers.
- Eric Stephens via twitter: Jonas Hiller will start in net for the Ducks tonight against Martin Brodeur and the Devils.
- Harvey Fialkov via twitter: Tomas Vokoun will start for the Capitals against Jose Theodore and the Panthers.
- Marc Antoine Godin via twitter: Carey Price will start in net for the Canadiens against the Sabres.
Morning NHL rumors involving: Kings, Blue Jackets, Capitals, Senators, Red Wings, Maple Leafs, Schneider and Stars
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 17th, 2012
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: Rumblings continue with the Kings possibly moving Jack Johnson if they can up their offense with a first-line forward. Jonathan Bernier’s name is out there as well. Any deal for Nash would likely included both Johnson and Bernier. LeBrun thinks the Kings and Blue Jackets talked about Jeff Carter before the Nash thing broke. The Capitals have looked at Blue Jackets Antoine Vermette, among others. The Capitals are waiting to see how Nicklas Backstrom is closer to the deadline before they make a move. Senators GM Bryan Murray is not looking for a short-term fix and won’t part with any of their top prospects to bring in some offensive help. They’d like a top 6 but only if the price is right.
- Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: The Red Wings will look to add 1 or 2 veterans for their Cup run. Teemu Selanne would be ideal but he’s focused on getting the Ducks in. Rick Nash would be expensive. Tuomo Ruutu is out 3 weeks and the Hurricanes want to re-sign him. Ryan Smyth has said he wants to stay in Edmonton and Ales Hemsky isn’t gritty and is injury prone.
- Terry Koshan of the Toronto Sun: To bring in Rick Nash, it may take Jake Gardiner, a 1st round pick, one of Joe Colborne or Nazem Kadri and maybe one of Clarke MacArthur or Nikolai Kulemin. If it isn’t Nash, the Leafs could use a forward. Koshan lists some players who the Maple Leafs might be interested in: James van Riemsdyk. Jeff Carter, Evgeni Nabokov, Nikolai Khabibulin, Ales Hemsky, Ryan Getzlaf, Bobby Ryan, Ryan Malone, Dustin Penner, Brenden Morrow, Mike Knuble, and Alex Ovechkin.
- Ben Kuzma of the Vancouver Province: Canucks Cory Schneider tries to take all trade rumors in stride:
“It’s hard to avoid it, it’s always on somewhere,” said Schneider. “We tend to ignore most of the speculation but it’s interesting to see who is going to strengthen themselves — a contender or a team we’re directly competing against with a guy like Rick Nash. That obviously has implications on us. We don’t follow it obsessively or believe every rumour we hear, but guys keep an eye out and see if we’re going to be active.
“For me, I just don’t think about it. I’ve got a job to do here and if I don’t do it, that probably eliminates possibilities of anything ever happening anyways. I enjoy it here. I’m not looking to get moved and I’m not asking for a trade by any means. If it’s a hockey decision, then it’s out of my control.”
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: (mailbag) Heika thinks the Stars have to shop Mike Ribeiro and Steve Ott to see what interest there is. They can’t just give them away, but if you can get a good return for them, it might be something to do. If they could get a good offer for goalie prospect Jack Campbell, they could move him.
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