Posts Tagged Columbus Blue Jackets
Morning notes: Sedin, Hall, Horcoff, Sutton, Gagne, Parise, Harding, Spurgeon, Backstrom, Vokoun, Zuccarello and Keith suspension video
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Suspensions, NHL Videos on March 24th, 2012
- Jim Jamieson via twitter: Henrik Sedin said Daniel suffered his first concussion.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Oilers Taylor Hall has been off the ice for the last 2 days. He won’t play on Sunday. Captain Shawn Horcoff left last night’s game with a sore back. Defenseman Andy Sutton has a minor knee issue.
- Rich Hammond of LA Kings Insider: Kings Simon Gagne has been out since December 26th with a concussion, continues to skate but hasn’t practiced and won’t travel with the team on their 4 game road trip. If he’s not cleared for practice soon, the chances of him playing this year are not high. When asked if Gagne will play again this year, GM Dean Lombardi said “Doubt it.”
- The Fouth Period: It’s believed the Wild will try to sign Zach Parise this offseason if he’s not re-signed by the Devils before July 1st. Goalie Josh Harding is expected to test the open market and is not likely back with the Wild. The Lightning, Maple Leafs, Blue Jackets and Senators could take a look at Harding.
- Kent Youngblood of the Star Tribune: Wild Jared Spurgeon is out with a concussion. Niklas Backstrom and Matt Kassian didn’t travel with the team.
- Tarik El-Bashir of the Washington Post: Capitals goalie Tomas Vokoun skated yesterday for 30 minutes and took some shots.
“Hopefully it stays the same and I can do a little bit more tomorrow,” Vokoun said after an extremely sparsely attending morning skate. “Then we’ll see, maybe shoot for some time next week.”
- Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News: Rangers forward Mats Zuccarello fractured his left wrist last night.
- Mark Stepneski via twitter: Kari Lehtonen will start in net for the Stars tonight.
- Blackhawks defenseman Duncan Keith was suspended for 5 games for his elbow on Canucks Daniel Sedin.
Sunday morning notes: Canadiens, Sharks, Leafs, Kings, Wild, Blue Jackets, Red Wings, Blues and Blackhawks
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on March 18th, 2012
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Whoever is the GM of the Canadiens this summer will be in charge of re-signing RFA goalie Carey Price. He could be getting a deal in the $5.5 million to $6 million range. Senators Erik Karlsson is also a RFA and could get a deal in the $5.5 to $7 million range. Predators Shea Weber is also a RFA this year. Pierre McGuire is a name to keep an eye on as candidate for the Canadiens GM job if it opens up. Garrioch wonders if the Sharks would trade one of Joe Thornton of Patrick Marleau if they miss the playoffs. Many wonder if Leafs Joffrey Lupul and Phil Kessel will thrive under new coach Randy Carlyle. Some people think Zach Parise could land in LA on July 1st, but with Lombardi possibly panicing and making the Carter for Johnson deal, it may have lessened their chances. The Wild have emerged as the favorites. Garrioch wonders if the Leafs would take a shot at Roberto Luongo this summer. Apparently if Scott Howson is still the GM of the Blue Jackets, he plans on drafting Filip Forsberg with the #1 pick ahead of Nail Yakupov.
- Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun: One league executive on the Blue Jackets if they win the draft lottery,
“They can’t pick a Russian so they can’t use the pick,” … “They’ll have to trade it.”
Along with trading Rick Nash, their options are:
1) They could keep the pick and not choose Yakupov, which would be counter-productive; 2) They could flip picks with another team, trading the first choice for another early choice, and getting an asset as well; 3) They could trade the pick to the highest bidder and begin rebuilding their team.
If Ducks college prospect Justin Schultz becomes a free agent, they Leafs will likely chase him again. They were interested in him when talking with the Ducks about Francois Beauchemin.
- Gregg Krupa of the Detroit News: Red Wings forward Johan Franzen is out indefinitely with a bad back. Dan Cleary has also been dealing with pain in his knee since Dec. 1st, and will need to have surgery again at some point. Defenseman Jonathan Ericsson’s wrist is healing quick, but he’s still scheduled to return late this month. Joey MacDonald will have an MRI on his back when he gets back to Detroit.
- Derrick Goold of St. Louis Post Dispatch: Blues coach Ken Hitchcock hass told Jason Arnott to take a week off.
“When I watched him play (last week), I saw a guy who was protecting himself on the ice and to me he was going out of the way to get out of the way,” Hitchcock said Saturday. “I felt like there was going to be a further injury. I could see how banged up he was. … We needed to get a better player on the ice.”
Hitchcock isn’t sure if Andy McDonald will join the team on their road trip.
- Kent Youngblood of the Star Tribune: Wild Mikko Koivu has been practicing the last couple days and is close to returning. “He is getting very close,” Yeo said. “But again, after talking with the doctors, we all felt it was best to hold him off for a couple more games.”
- Tracey Myers of CSNChicago: Blackhawks forward Jonathan Toews hasn’t skated in 4 days. Coach Joel Quenneville,
“The process, I’m sure in his mind, is not a fun thing to be dealing with. You want to be optimistic; there was that stretch there where he was getting close. There’s hope, and that’re we’re at.s whe”
- Kirk Penton of the Winnipeg Sun: Jets defenseman Mark Stuart was fined $2,500 for a late hit on Capitals Marcus Johansson on Friday.
Morning notes on: Kessel, Crosby, Letang, Lidstrom, Kuznetsov, Gerbe, Nash, Selanne, Gomez and Toews
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on March 15th, 2012
- Damien Cox of the Toronto Star: Cox doesn’t think Phil Kessel fits with the Maple Leafs. Despite his ability to score 30 goals,
“He’s no leader on a team still developing internal leadership. He’s not combative or a fierce adversary. He doesn’t bring size to the equation or pluck or two-way excellence.”
Cox thinks the Leafs should look at trading Kessel. He has a $5.4 million cap hit, and will get a $5.1 million salary next year and $5.4 million in the last year of his deal.
- Josh Yohe of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: Sidney Crosby will see time on the 1st power play unit with Evgeni Malkin. Crosby will play the point on some of the PP. Kris Letang is also expected back tonight.
- Helene St. James via twitter: Red Wings Nicklas Lidstrom suffered a bit of a setback. At yesterdays’ morning skate,
“I was more sore today when I skated, so that’s why I was out there for just a few minutes. It was more sore today.” He has a deep bone bruise and there is still some swelling, no fracture.
On shutting things down for a bit:
“We’ve talked about it,” he said. “I’m sure they’ll talk more to the coaching staff and see what the next step will be, but it’s still day-to-day. It’s discouraging that I haven’t started feeling better, as it’s going on two weeks now.”
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: In a TV interview, Capitals prospect Evgeni Kuznetsov said he’s staying in the KHL next season.
- John Vogl via twitter: Sabres Nathan Gerbe was scratched from last night’s game with upper-body injury.
- Jim Matheson via twitter: A veteran pro scout on Blue Jackets Rick Nash, he loves his skill but “Does he make other people around him better?”
- Derek van Diest of the Toronto Sun: Blue Jackets Rick Nash won’t talk about his trade request and why he wanted out of Columbus.Defenseman James Wisniewski on how it is has been in the dressing room after Nash’s request came out last month,
“Our job is to go out there and play hockey,” said Blue Jackets defenceman James Wisniewski. “We go out there to try and win hockey games. What happened behind the scene is his personal business and we support him as a person and as a player.”
- Jeff Miller of the OC Register: Jari Kurri thinks that Teemu Selanne should keep playing,
“Everybody’s really happy with what he’s doing,” Jari Kurri said. “Keep going. Why stop now?”
“I’m hoping he keeps playing,” Kurri said. “Why stop? I know he wants to win. He wants to do well and he’s playing well. I don’t see any reason for him to stop.”
- Dave Stubbs of the Montreal Gazette: Canadiens forward Scott Gomez will miss some time with a concussion. Gomez suffered the injury when he was hit by Sabres Tyler Myers, who was suspended for 3 games.
- Chris Kuc of the Chicago Tribune: (written on Tuesday) Blackhawks coach Joel Quenneville on Jonathan Toews:
“it’s part of the process. Some days are better than others, but he knows his body and we’ll see how he is. Hopefully, we’ll get him back on the ice (Wednesday) and things progress.”
“Jonathan was excited when he was skating,” Quenneville said. “He’s still looking forward to getting back. Hopefully, it’s going to be soon.
Afternoon notes involving: Toews, Hjalmarsson, Radulov, Vanek, Ruutu, Brown, Morrow, Desharnais, Leafs lines and starting goalies
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Starting Goalies on March 9th, 2012
- Chris Kuc via twitter: Blackhawks Jonathan Toews: “No one else can tell me how I feel. It’s up to me to be honest with myself and be smart about it.” There is no timetable for Toews return. Niklas Hjalmarsson will be back in the lineup tonight.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Alexander Radulov’s KHL team is out of the playoffs. Radulov wouldn’t comment on if he’s staying in Ufa.
- John Vogl of the Buffalo News: Sabres Tomas Vanek left last night’s game with an upper-body injury in the 3rd period. It’s not a head issue according to Lindy Ruff.
- Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer: Hurricanes Tuomo Ruutu has missed the last 10 games and may be ready to return tomorrow.
- Terry Koshan via twitter: Maple Leafs forward Mike Brown will be out 7-10 days with a thigh contusion. Colby Armstrong and Cody Franson are ready to go.
- Mark Stepneski via twitter: Stars Brenden Morrow said he’s questionable for tomorrow.
- Montreal Gazette: Canadiens David Desharnais suffered a lower body injury in the 1st period, had one shift in the 2nd, and didn’t return for the 3rd.
- David Alter via twitter: Maple Leafs lines: Connolly-Bozak-Kessel, MacArthur-Grabovski-Kulemin, Ashton-Steckel-Crabb, Rosehill-Lombardi-Frattin-Armstrong.
- Shawn Mitchell via twitter: Allen York was recalled by the Blue Jackets and will back up Curtis Sanford in St. Louis.
- Elliotte Friedman via twitter: Ben Bishop will start in net for the Senators against the Sabres.
- Mark Stepneski via twitter: Kari Lehtonen will start in net for the Stars tomorrow.
Fantasy Hockey notes: Duchene, Tyutin, Toews, Dubinsky, Anderson, Morrow, Nyquist, Ponikarovsky and starting goalies
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Starting Goalies on March 8th, 2012
- Adrian Dater via twitter: Matt Duchene will be out 3-4 weeks with an ankle injury, surgery not needed.
- Bill Rabinowitz via twitter: Blue Jackets defenseman Fedor Tyutin has a broken hand and is likely done for the year.
- Adam Jahns via twitter: Blackhawks center Jonathan Toews skated on his own today.
- Steve Zipay via twitter: Rangers forward Brandon Dubinsky is out tonight.
- Ian Mendes via twitter: Senators goalie Craig Anderson was on the ice before the Sens practice this morning. He was able to carry a goal stick.
- Adam Jahns via twitter: Blackhawks defenseman Niklas Hjalmarsson is “hopeful” for tomorrow night.
- Mark Stepneski via twitter: Brenden Morrow is skating today, but not expected to play tonight.
- Helene St. James via twitter: The Red Wings called forward Gustav Nyquist.
- Rich Chere via twitter: Alexei Ponikarovsky will be in the lineup tonight.
- Mike Heika via twitter: Stars lines: Eriksson-Ribeiro-Ryder. Ott-Benn-Burish. Nystrom-Fiddler-Dvorak. Garbutt-Wandell-Vincour. vs. Sharks.
- Katie Strang via twitter: Evgeni Nabokov will start in net for the Islanders against Martin Brodeur and the Devils.
- Mark Stepneski via twitter: Kari Lehtonen will start in net for the Stars.
- George Richards via twitter: Jose Theodore will start in net for the Panthers.
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: Martin Biron will start in net for the Rangers against the Sens.
- Stephen Whyno via twitter: Tomas Vokoun will start in net for the Capitals tonight.
- Eric Stephens via twitter: Jonas Hiller will start in net for the Ducks against Jaroslav Halak and the Blues.
- Chris Kuc via twitter: Ray Emery will start in net for Blackhawks.
Was Grabovski’s deal delayed? Canucks targeted teams for Hodgson deal … Injury notes on Duchene, Lupul, Armstrong, Dubinsky, Jagr, Jackman and Nikitin
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News on March 7th, 2012
- Elliotte Friedman of CBC: Friedman thinks the Mikhail Grabovski’s deal could have been done a week or 2 ago but Burke may have wanted to see if he would get a crazy offer at the deadline. It’s rumored that the Stars wanted Cody Hodgson for Steve Ott. The Leafs tried to get Hodgson as well. The Canucks ‘targeted” a few clubs that they thought had the match they wanted. Friedman thinks they liked Brandon Sutter from the Hurricanes and John Carlson of the Capitals. Former Oilers Tom Gilbert said he didn’t demand a trade.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Avalanche forward Matt Duchene injured his right ankle in the 3rd period of last night’s game. He’ll be re-evaluated today.
- Lance Hornby via twitter: Maple Leafs forward Joffrey Lupul has an upper-body injury and Colby Armstrong has a broken nose.
- Andrew Gross of the Bergon Record: Rangers forward Brandon Dubinsky left last night’s game in the first period after getting into a fight with Ryan Carter.
- Frank Seravalli of the Philadelphia Daily News: Flyers Jakub Voracek got rocked by Niklas Kronwall last night. There was no injury update after the game as he was still be evaluated by doctors. Jaromir Jagr also left the game with a lower body injury.
- John Down of the Calgary Herald: Flames forward Tim Jackman left after 1 shift after taking a big hit from Alexei Emelin.
- Shawn Mitchell via twitter: Blue Jackets defenseman Nikita Nikitin blocked a shot off the foot in the 1st period and did not return.
Stars considered offers for Ott and Souray … Preds offer for Nash didn’t include Ellis … Grabovski’s agent in T.O. next week … starting goalies
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Starting Goalies on February 28th, 2012
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: Stars GM Joe Nieuwendyk had some offers that they strongly considered for Steve Ott and Sheldon Souray.
“I would say there were a couple of things on the table that took a lot of time to sort through,” Nieuwendyk said. “But at the end of the day, we had a responsibility to put the best team on the ice right now to challenge for the playoffs and we didn’t want to risk moving anything that would not help us as far as the return moving into the future.”
- Elliotte Friedman of CBC: Nashville’s big pitch for Rick Nash did not include Ryan Ellis. One GM thought the Sharks could have had a deal for Nash if they still had Charlie Coyle. The Leafs and Flyers sniffed around Josh Harding. Some teams thought Steve Ott was destined for the Maple Leafs, but the Stars changed their minds.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Sources are saying that the Stars wanted a 2nd round pick, a high end prospect and a roster player for Steve Ott. They also wanted a 2nd round pick and high end prospects for Sheldon Souray. The Islanders continue to have talks with Evgeni Navokov. They have had no contract discussions with P.A. Parenteauf as of yesterday afternoon.
- Mike Zeisberger of the Toronto Sun: Maple Leafs defenseman Jake Gardiner may have been Scott Howson’s ‘must include’ list for any Rick Nash package.
- Mark Masters of TSN: Mikhail Grabovski’s agent said he plans on being in Toronto next week, and said ‘I believe that I will have some news for you’
- Shawn Mitchell via twitter: Told Nicklas Lidstrom is out.
- Mark Stepneski via twitter: Stars lines: Ott-Benn-Burish; Eriksson-Ribeiro-Ryder; Nystrom-Fiddler-Dvorak; Garbutt-Wandell-Vincour.
- Chuck Gormley via twitter: Capitals starting goalie will be a game time decision according to Dale Hunter. Gormley guesses Neuvirth.
- Arthur Staple via twitter: Evgeni Nabokov will start in net for the Islanders.
- Paul Hendrick via twitter: Jose Theodore will start in net for the Panthers tonight against the Leafs. Jonas Siegel via twitter: James Reimer will start in net for the Leafs tonight.
- Shawn Mitchell via twitter: Curtis Sanford will start in net for the Blue Jackets against Joey MacDonald and the Red Wings.
- Chip Alexander via twitter: Looks like Cam Ward will start in net for the Hurricanes.
- Damian Cristodero via twitter: Mathieu Garon will start in net for the Lightning against the Canadiens.
- Tracey Myers via twitter: Corey Crawford will start in net for the Blackhawks tomorrow against the Maple Leafs.
- Mark Stepneski via twitter: Kari Lehtonen will start in net for the Stars tomorrow.
Deadline notes … Rangers made one last offer for Nash, Blue Jackets wanted different players … Panthers weren’t close on deals
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 28th, 2012
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: The Sharks will be getting Douglas Murray and Martin Havlat back before the playoffs. Talks between them and the Blue Jackets for Rick Nash hit a roadblock when the Sharks refused to include Logan Couture. The Sharks did inquire about James van Riemsdyk. The Stars received about “12 to 14″ inquires over the past couple weeks for Steve Ott. The Canucks were offering Mason Raymond, but that wasn’t enough. The Stars were not going to trade Ott for picks or prospects. Burke didn’t trade any of his players for 1st round picks as he didn’t want to send the message to his players that they were giving up on the playoffs. The Capitals took calls on Roman Hamrlik but didn’t find a fit. The Red Wings looked at Paul Gaustad but didn’t have a 1st.
- Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: Blue Jackets GM Scott Howson said he’ll continue to try and trade Rick Nash in the offseason. “This is too important for our franchise and our fans to do a deal that is not in our best interest.” The Rangers made a late offer of Brandon Dubinsky, Tim Erixon, J.T. Miller, Christian Thomas and a 1st round pick. Howson added:
“I’ve had many teams express that they would have a ton more interest in the offseason,”“I just think it was the right thing to do, the truthful thing to do,” Howson said.“We wanted to make sure that everybody understood where everybody was on this issue because it’s a very important issue for our franchise.
“I think things will continue to be amicable between Rick and the organization.”
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: Brooks also noted the Rangers upped their offer to Brandon Dubinsky, Tim Erixon, J.T. Miller, Christian Thomas and a 1st round pick. Howson was after Brandon Dubinsky, Ryan McDonagh or Michael Del Zotto, Derek Stepan or Carl Hagelin, Chris Kreider, and a 1st round pick.
- George Richards of the Miami Herald: Panthers GM Dale Tallon said he didn’t come close to making a deal. There was talk that they might move pending UFA defenseman Jason Garrison, but decided against it.
“We made a lot of phone calls and identified what we wanted to add to our lineup,’’ Tallon said. “We couldn’t get what we wanted without mortgaging our future. There just wasn’t a lot of activity. … I’m happy with our team. We improved it. We’re going to stay with the team that has 70 points, is in first place and is battling for a playoff spot.’’
Blue Jackets GM Scott Howson’s Press Conference
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Videos on February 27th, 2012
Columbus Blue Jackets GM Scott Howson holds a press conference after the trade deadline. Mentions that Rick Nash had approached them about a trade out of Columbus. (video has been slow loading)
Nash asked for a trade … Leafs offered 1sts for 4 players … Lupul not part of Nash talks … Wings were in on Gaustad
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 27th, 2012
- Shawn Mitchell via twitter: Blue Jackets GM Scott Howson said that Rick Nash approached him about a trade.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: The Maple Leafs have offers of 1st round picks for Luke Schenn, Nikolai Kulemin, Clarke MacArthur, and Mikhail Grabovski.
- Jonas Siegel via twitter: Burke expects to have Mikhail Grabovski signed to an extension by the end of the season.
- David Pagnotta via twitter: Pagnotta was told that Lupul was never part of the Rick Nash discussions.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: The Red Wings inquired about Paul Gaustad but didn’t have a 1st round pick.
- Curtis Zupka via twitter: Ducks GM Murray on Selanne: “He was going to have to come to me and make me do something. It was never going to come to that.”
- Andy Strickland via twitter: “The Blues financial situation is bad..they’re not bleeding, they’re hemorrhaging. It’s been widely ignored and today is another example”
- Randy Sportak via twitter: Flames GM Jay Feaster: “We still believe we’re a team that can make the playoffs.”
- Dennis Bernstein via twitter: Sharks Logan Couture is questionable for tomorrow.
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.”
Rick Nash Trade Rumors
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 26th, 2012
I’ll continue to add Rick Nash trade rumors to this post, bumping old ones to a jump page when it gets to long. Here are links to 2 previous entries HC Rick Nash Trade Tracker Videos and Rumors, and Blue Jackets put Rick Nash on the trade market.
Feb. 26th 8:15 PM
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Obviously possible Rick Nash could move by tomorrow but it were close in any way do you think CBJ would’ve played him today?”
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Teams that have the most interest in Nash don’t think he’ll be moved and are looking at other players.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: The Rangers weren’t willing to pay the price for Nash prior to today, and today the Blue Jackets asked for more than they initially asked for. Can’t really blame the Rangers for not wanting to blow up their team to make a Nash deal.
- Spector’s Hockey via twitter: Sportsnet Marty McSorley said that latest word is the Rangers are out on Nash.
11:15 AM
- David Boclair of the Nashville City Paper: The Predators have made an offer Nash. It’s unlikely the Blue Jackets would want to trade within their division. The Preds offer could include: Colin Wilson, Ryan Ellis or Jonathan Blum and multiple picks and/or prospects
- Darren Dreger via twitter: The Blue Jackets haven’t spoken with the Maple Leafs in days. Leafs will keep trying, but Gardiner remains untouchable.
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: Belief before the Maple Leafs loss to the Capitals that the Leafs interest in Nash was minimal, and they they were driving up the price for the Rangers.
- Sam Carchidi via twitter: The Flyers are still talking with Blue Jackets about Nash, but nothing serious has developed. The Jackets want several of the Flyers young players.
9:00 AM
- The Fourth Period: The Rangers may include Carl Hagelin (Rangers want Stepan) to go along with Brandon Dubinsky, Chris Kreider and a 1st round pick. The Blue Jackets are asking the Maple Leafs for Jake Gardiner, Joe Colborne, Matt Frattin and a 1st round pick.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: The Leafs, Rangers, and Sharks have offers in on Rick Nash, and have all said the offer could be better in the summer. The Rangers and Leafs are being aggressive as they have more parts to offer than the Sharks.
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: The Sharks are still interested in Nash, but could probably make a better offer in the offseason. The Maple Leafs and Rangers are still in.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Blue Jackets GM Scott Howson should go after Derek Stepan over Brandon Dubinsky. Howson wants Chris Kreider, the Rangers best prospect. He also wants either Ryan McDonagh or Michael Del Zotto, but McDonagh isn’t going anywhere. Dylan McIlray or Tim Erixon are also options. After the Carter deal, defense is not a top priority for Howson. He could use some 1st round picks to take a run at Canucks Cory Schneider this offseason. They already have their own and the Kings.
Feb. 25th 9:50 PM:
- Spector’s Hockey via twitter: Elliotte Friedman suggested on the Hotstove that the Blue Jackets might not move Nash by Monday. They’ve shifted their focus to forwards for Nash.
- Chris Botta via twitter: Botta can see the Rangers best offer for Nash as Brandon Dubinsky, Tim Erixon, a 2012 1st round pick and a conditional pick based on Rangers success the next 2 years.
- Todd Cordell via twitter: Bob McKenzie reported that the Canucks are jumping into the trade market, with Nash a possibility.
4:40 PM
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Rick Nash’s agent spoke with TSN and said the following: “We’re hopeful a deal can get done prior to the trade deadline that is fair and equitable for the Blue Jackets…” .. “However, if a deal is not reached, then the list of acceptable teams will not change at a later date.”
2:05 PM
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: Rangers remain firm that they aren’t going to trade Michael Del Zotto or Ryan McDonagh in a deal with Columbus for Nash.
- David Pagnotta via twitter: Hearing that the Blue Jackets want Derek Stepan badly, but might settle for Carl Hagelin. Brandon Dubinsky, Chris Kreider, Stepan or Hagelin, and a pick (may not be a 1st). There could be more coming from the Blue Jackets. May boil today to Stepan or Hagelin.
9:00 AM
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: “No guarantees #CBJ captain Rick Nash is traded by Monday’s deadline, but might be best for all parties to have a quick ending to this.” …”#CBJ have set the bar very high and are waiting for other teams to meet their requirements. So far, none of them have done so.” … “#CBJ approach is that they don’t have to trade Nash, but several possible suitors and the Nash camp are getting impatient w the process.” … “Might be best if #CBJ fans come to terms with the fact that Nash is likely going to be traded. Might not happen at deadline, but …” … “… chances of Nash being with the Blue Jackets at the start of next season are slim.”
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.
Ballard to LTIR … No deal for Grabovski … Waivers today … Boyce claimed on waivers … Russell has concussion … Scouting
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Starting Goalies on February 25th, 2012
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: The Canucks put Keith Ballard on the LTIR, creating $4.2 million in cap space. Ott could be an option. Ballard has a concussion and is not close. He might be ready for the playoffs.
- Chris Johnston via twitter: Indications are that Mikhail Grabovski won’t be signing a contract extension with the Maple Leafs by Monday.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: On waivers today R. Russell and Clitsome (CBJ), Boulton (NJD), Staubitz (re-entry) (MIN), Kolanos (CGY).
- Brian Compton via twitter: The Islanders have waived Brian Rolston and recalled David Ullstrom.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: The Blue Jackets have claimed Darryl Boyce off waivers from the Maple Leafs.
- Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: The Blues have lost Kris Russell to concussion-like symptoms. Kent Huskins will take his spot, and Ian Cole was recalled. The might make a move for a defenseman, but have indicated they may be quiet, citing budget concerns.
- Chip Alexander via twitter: Hurricanes coach Kirk Muller is not worried about Cam Ward, could be in next game.
- Dave Molinari via twitter: Scouting the Penguins-Lightning game today: Stars, Kings and Lightning.
- Adrian Dater via twitter: Scouting the Blue Jackets game last night: Bruins, Flyers, Rangers, Devils, Sharks Penguins and Lightning.
- Roger Millions via twitter: Flames lines: Glencross Jokinen Iginla-Tanguay Cammalleri Comeau-Desbiens horak Jackman-Bouma Stajan Kostopoulos
- Jonas Siegel via twitter: James Reimer will start in net for the Leafs tonight.
State of the Florida Panthers: NHL Trade Deadline Edition
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Opinion, NHL Rumors on February 25th, 2012
Written by Jordan Gluck of dylanswisdom.com, and can be found at @dylanswisdom (written before the Wojtet Wolski trade)
The Panthers are in a unusual position. They have not made the playoffs since 2000. Dale Tallon and assistant GM Mike Santos have done a great job rebuilding this team. As a result about this they now rank 20th in attendance which should shut down any chance at relocation.
The Panthers are obviously buyers at the deadline. They have been propelled by the great additions of Kris Versteeg, Tomas Fleischmann, Brian Campbell, and Jose Theodore. As there roster sits right now they have a tremendous amount of depth but not much frontline talent. They are also ravaged by injuries but have the #1 farm system in the game with the likes of Nick Bjustad, Jonathan Huberdeau, Quinton Howden, Jacob Markstrom, and Luke Shaw.
Wings OK with not making any more trades, but could look for a forward … What do Sens do in net? Markov practices … Kostitsyn wants to stay
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 25th, 2012
- John Niyo of the Detroit News: Wings GM Ken Holland on Thursday, “If we do nothing between now and Monday, I’m OK with it.” They have the cap space to make a move if they find one they like, which would likely be forward but the pickings are slim. Canadiens Travis Moen, Sabres Paul Gaustad and Blue Jackets Sammy Pahlsson would be nice rental additions.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: So Craig Anderson severed a tendon in his right finger cutting chicken. GM Bryan Murray wants to take the weekend to decide if he needs to go get a goalie. Alex Auld will start tonight, and Robin Lehner has been recalled. The Sharks called Senators and Leafs to see if they have any interest in picking Antero Niittymaki off waivers. Dwayne Roloson could be another option. Anderson had surgery on Thursday and could be 6-8 weeks, but Murray said he could be back on the ice next week.
- Dennis Bernstein via twitter: The Kings are still active on the trade front.
- Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette: Canadiens defenseman Andrei Markov practiced with teammates yesterday for the first time since December 5th. He said he isn’t experiencing any pain, but there is no timetable for his return, but he hopes to return before the end of season.
“I have to try a full contract practice,” he said. “I feel pretty good on the ice right now. As soon as I feel like I’m ready to play, I’ll play.”
- Sean Gordon of the Globe and Mail: Canadiens forward Andrei Kostitsyn, “I want to stay.” Kostitsyn said earlier this season that he’d take a pay cut to remain with the Canadiens.
- Globe and Mail podcast: Roundtable talking about Jeff Carter trade and other possible moves.
Cox thinks Burke is being squeezed … Peca thinks Leafs should go after Ribeiro or Getzlaf … Pang say Harding or Mason
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on February 25th, 2012
- Damien Cox of the Toronto Star: With the trade deadline just days away, Brian Burke is being squeezed. The teams is struggling (losing 7 of 8), and he’s hoping to make a deal at a reasonable price. Does he overpay for a Rick Nash or not given to the high prices for others? Columbus is squeezing Burke on Nash, same with demands for backup goalies, and what it would take for Dustin Brown. Burke has worked hard to accumulate prospects like Jake Gardiner, Matt Frattin, Joe Colborne, Keith Aulie, Nazem Kadri and Jesse Blacker, and it’s difficult to package them off for a big-name expensive player. Does Burke trade away future players for short-term solutions, or avoid it all costs? Some want Nash or Brown now. The smartest decision may be to trade Mikhail Grabovski and Clarke MacArthur, keep the young guys and regroup, and fire Wilson.
- Randy Starkman of the Toronto Star: Former NHLer Mike Peca thinks the Maple Leafs should go after Mike Ribeiro or Ryan Getzlaf.
“There’s so many spots where they can benefit from getting somebody. They’re waiting to see if Reimer will shake out to be a good goalie. I think the one thing they do need is a centre. Somebody who might be available is a guy like Mike Ribeiro from Dallas, who’s just a good guy with the puck and can move it around and seems to have a personality and a swagger that can hold up to the pressures of Toronto. I don’t know if (Ryan) Getzlaf will still be available. He’d be a guy that’d be a perfect fit in Toronto. But I think for them to get a guy who can be a No. 1 centre, play those minutes, distribute the puck is somebody the Leafs would love to get. They talk about Rick Nash, but then that’s adding another scoring winger without addressing what the need is: A bona fide No. 1 centre that’s going to anchor that top line for years to come.”
Darren Pang thinks Josh Harding and Chris Mason may be good options for the Maple Leafs
“You need a goaltender there that you’re not going to give up too much for … the guys that are unrestricted. Josh Harding would be a good fit there … He’s unrestricted at the end of the year, likely not to re-sign there, can win hockey games, can play the puck and I think he would be a good fit for Toronto. A guy like Chris Mason in Winnipeg, a veteran guy who’s been down the stretch and helped get the Blues in the playoffs a couple of years ago, he’s a great teammate. He would be a stabilizing force for those young goaltenders.”
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