Posts Tagged Filip Kuba
NHL rumors involving the several Senators, Canadiens, Kings, Panthers, Blue Jackets and more
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Audio, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 22nd, 2011
- Sean Fitz-Gerald of the National Post: “We’ve stripped down and added a lot of young assets,” Burke told the crowd. “We’ve gone through, now, the selling part of this process. We are buyers now. We’re trying to add a defenceman right now.” Burke said he wanted to add a defenseman by the end of [today], and has a couple things going on. MacArthur could be moved before the deadline if contract talks don’t go well. Burke hopes to make some more moves before the 28th trade deadline.
- Brian Burke Audio from James Mirtle of the Globe and Mail:
- Andy Strickland of True Hockey: Sources told Strickland that the Panthers and Rangers had a deal almost done for Bryan McCabe several weeks ago but he broke his jaw. They may re-visit the deal. McCabe has a no-movement clause and he may be very selective as to where he’d go.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: The Senators and Chris Phillips have talked contract extension (possibly a 3 year deal), but if they can’t get a deal done, he could be moved. Chris Neil has apparently given the Senators a list of 10 teams he can’t be dealt too. The Rangers could be interested in Neil who has 2 years with a $2 million cap hit. The Rangers are said to be interested in Filip Kuba, who has another year left at a $3.7 million cap hit. There may only be 1 or 2 teams interested in Alexei Kovalev, and he wouldn’t cost much.
- Helene Elliott of the LA Times: The Kings were interested in James Neal before he was dealt yesterday but weren’t interested in giving up one of their top defenseman for him. They’ve looked David Booth and Ales Hemsky, but won’t move Brayden Schenn.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: The Oilers could buyout Sheldon Souray after the season. Coach Tom Renney added, “Would the Oilers take him back next year? I would keep an open mind,” said Renney. The fact that Souray has 1 more year left on his deal is what likely scared teams off. Souray’s foot speed was also an issue.
- David Pagnotta of the Fourth Period: The Canadiens are looking for a top 6 forward and a shutdown defenseman. Dustin Penner, Rostislav Klesla, Kristian Huselius, Chris Phillips and Ryan Suter have been linked to the Canadiens. Canadiens GM Yannick Weber, Andrei Kostitsyn and Lars Eller, among others may be being used as trade bait.The Kings are after Ales Hemsky. Wayne Simmonds and Brayden Schenn may be available for a ‘top-line player’. Brad Richards will also interest in the LA Kings. It’s being said that Richards will only waive his no-trade if GM Joe Nieuwendyk insists. The Rangers would love to get Richards, but may be in a better position to trade for Hemsky, McCabe and/or Brad Boyes. Michael Del Zotto might be moved for right player. Del Zotto may have been in discussion in a deal involving Tomas Kaberle before he was dealt to Boston. John-Michael Liles is being “shopped hard” by the Avalanche.Aside for Klesla and Huselius, the Blue Jackets may be shopping Jakub Voracek. GM Scott Howson didn’t like what the Penguins wanted for Alex Goligoski. The Flames can’t afford Huselius, and could be looking for a gritty 2nd-3rd liner, Chris Neil could be an option.
- Mike Harrington of the Buffalo News: Teams like Pittsburgh, Washington or Los Angeles could be interested in Tim Connolly. Many people will be surprised if Connolly last the week. Matthew Barnaby adds via twitter: They can’t wait to get Connolly’s contract off the books.
- Allen Panzeri of the Ottawa Citizen: Senators forward Peter Regin suffered a shoulder injury on Saturday in a game against the Leafs and could be done for the season. “We won’t know more until the test,” he said. “It could be worse (than we first thought).”
- Mark Emmons of the San Jose Mercury News: Sharks forward Scott Nicol is out with an upper-body injury. Defenseman Marc-Edouard Vlasic practiced yesterday and could be in the lineup tonight. Kent Huskins is not likely to play.
- Terry Koshan of the Toronto Sun: Mike Brown and Colby Armstrong should be back in the Leafs lineup tonight on a line with Darryl Boyce. Joey Crabb and Christian Hanson could be healthy scratches. The Leafs might have to call up a defenseman as Brett Lebda has a big bruise on his leg after being hit with a slapshot.
Lou says no to Souray … Gaborik has a concussion … Asking price for Hemsky huge, Kings still interested … Richard-Stars talking
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on February 20th, 2011
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Lou Lamoriello said that the Devils haven’t put a claim on Seldon Souray, and won’t be.
- Andrew Gross via twitter: Marian Gaborik has a concussion.
- Dennis Bernstein via twitter: Even in Calgary, Bernstein is hearing the LA Kings are pressing hard for Ales Hemsky.
- Rob Rossi via twitter: Penguins source is saying the asking price for Ales Hemsky is huge.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: The Dallas Stars and Brad Richards have quietly been having talks, though there hasn’t been much progress. It’s more likely the Oilers will move Dustin Penner, Gilbert Brule, Jim Vandermeer and Ladislav Smid than Ales Hemsky. The Islanders are looking to trade Radek Martinek, Bruno Gervais and Zenon Konopka. Expect the Avalanche to make a pitch of Tomas Vokoun who’ll be a UFA in the off-season. Rangers are looking Filip Kuba. Scouts have called Sheldon Souray’s performance in the AHL as “brutal”. Even if Pascal Leclair plays again this season, his NHL career may come to an end as nobody may want to sign the UFA. The Canadiens, Sharks and Canucks have interest in John-Michael Liles.
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: “If there are three teams interested in Ottawa RW Alexei Kovalev there are three GM’s who haven’t been watching him all year.”
- Eric Stevens of the OC Register: Ducks goalie Jonas Hiller was was placed on the IR earlier this week after another bout of dizziness and lightheadedness, is “believed to have a balance issue according to a team spokesman.” He is to meet a physical therapist tomorrow and team doctors have ruled out a concussion.
- Kent Youngblood of the Star-Tribune: Mikko Koivu injured his left hand blocking a shot in the 1st period of Friday’s game. It’s not known at the moment how long he’ll be out, more should be known tomorrow. If the Wild look to make a move for a center, they could look at, Jason Arnott, Tim Connolly or Rob Niedermayer.
- John Vogl of the Buffalo News: If the Sabres improve their play they may become buyers, but if they play like they did against the Leafs and Blues, they may look to the future. They have the expiring contracts of Tim Connolly and Steve Montador, and haven’t had any contract talks with either. Team captain Craig Rivet could be moved.
Sunday Morning Rumor Round up – Feb. 20th 2011
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 20th, 2011
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: The League is trying to find a local owner for the Atlanta Thrashers, and if they can’t find one in the next 6-8 weeks they could be relocated. Alex Kovalev is getting interest from the Penguins. The Pens were interested in Curtis Glencross before the Flames got hot. The Senators are trying to move Filip Kuba to free up money for re-signing Chris Phillips. The Canadiens are interested in Phillips. The Maple Leafs are looking for a Dman, they kicked tires with Bogosian but there doesn’t seem to be a fit, and they are not interested in Souray. Avalanche GM Greg Sherman said he’s not moving Milan Hejduk. Teams are calling the Thrashers about Zach Bogosian, and they were offered two first-round picks plus a prospect for him, but it wasn’t a ‘true hockey’ deal and they’d like to make the playoffs.
- Ryan Rishaug via twitter: The Capitals and Oilers have had talks regarding Ales Hemsky, but nothing is close. The Oilers have interest in Karl Alzner or John Carlson. The LA Kings have interest in Hemsky or Dustin Penner, preliminary talks only. Oilers would look at Brayden Schenn, Kyle Clifford, etc. The Canadiens have also shown interest in Penner but they are not offering much. There is also a Predators deal for a defenseman, but unlikely.
- Robert Tychkowski of the Edmonton Sun: Oilers GM Steve Tambellini on Sheldon Souray being on re-entry waivers, “In speaking to so many mangers over the last few weeks, recognizing how many people are looking for defencemen, this is an opportunity, I think, for some team, and for Sheldon,” said Tambellini, who has no gut feeling either way.”
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: No teams contacted Tambellini saying they were interested in Souray. Two Maple Leafs scouted the Oilers-Canadiens game on Thursday, with Matheson wondering if Burke wants Penner. Lots of teams are looking at Smid.
- Helene Elliott of the LA Times: Kings GM Dean Lombardi did not indicate if he’ll be making an impact move soon. The Kings have looked at Ales Hemsky and Panthers David Booth. If Brad Richards does become available, he’d carry a heavy price. Lombardi isn’t willing to discuss Brayden Schenn in a deal.
- Dan Tencer via twitter: The Predators have been scouting the Oilers, and may have an interest in Ladislav Smid.
- Darren Millard via twitter: Burke tells Millard that he has no interest in Sheldon Souray.
- Terry Frei of the Denver Post: Avalanche forward Milan Hejduk was asked if he’d consider waiving his no trade, “That’s an interesting question,” Hejduk said. “I haven’t thought about it yet. We’ll see what’s going to come in the next whatever it is. . . . I’ve played all my career here, and I would like it to stay that way. We’ll see.”
- Andrew Gross of North Jersey.com: Teams are asking the Rangers about their young players (like Brandon Dubinsky, Ryan Callahan, Marc Staal, Dan Girardi Derek Stepan and Ryan McDonagh) and Sather may not be interested in dealing draft picks.
- Michael Russo of the Star-Tribune: Wild won’t be sellers but GM Chuck Fletcher said , “We’re not mortgaging the future.” The Wild probably don’t have the assets (or want to part with them) to add a big scorer. They could use a center with Mikko Koivu’s injury.
Kaberle to Bruins close, B’s looking at secondary deal … Rangers interested in Kuba … ‘Hawks close on minor deal … Habs interested in Klesla and Huselius
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Rumors on February 17th, 2011
- Darren Dreger of TSN: “It’s unlikely the deal gets done today, but sources say it’s close and say the deal doesn’t hinge on Kaberle signing an extension with the Bruins.” The Bruins are working on another deal to create some cap space. Blake Wheeler and his $2.2 million salary could be moved out and he’s drawing some interest. The Leafs should be both a buyer and seller as they continue to believe they have a shot at the playoffs. The Leafs are expected to talk to Clarke MacArthur’s side to see what it would take to do an extension. Flames GM Jay Feaster would like to add a forward and a defenseman.
- Joe Haggerty of CSNNE: Haggerty the reports that the package the Leafs might be receiving is Blake Wheeler and draft pick. The Bruins are also rumored to be discussing sending Mark Stuart to the Blackhawks for a draft pick.
- Dan Rosen via twitter: Brian Burke said reports that Tomas Kaberle is going to the Bruins is not accurate, talking to multiple teams.
- Jimmy Murphy via twitter: In theory the Bruins could take on salary now and shed the salary in the summer, dealing picks and prospects to get their coveted puck moving defenseman.
- Steve Conroy of the Boston Herald: With the Bruins looking at Tomas Kaberle, Eric Brewer, Ron Hainsey, and Zach Bogosian; Mark Stuart and Blake Wheeler could be on their way out. Stuart has been a healthy scratch lately and will be a UFA at the end of the year, Wheeler will be a RFA.
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: The Rangers are looking for a defenseman, and have some interest in Senators Filip Kuba
- David Pagnotta via twitter: Rumors that Chicago may be close on a minor deal.
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: The Montreal Canadiens are said to have interest in Blue Jackets D Rostislav Klesla and LW Kristian Huselius. The player who might have their interest is puck moving defenseman prospect Yannick Weber.
- Mark Spector via twitter: Canucks GM Mike Gillis said he can only add a $1 million player at the deadline.
- George Richards via twitter: Stephen Weiss suggested he would waive his no-movement clause if the Panthers didn’t want him anymore. He has not talked to management, nor been asked to waive his no-movement clause.
- Ansar Khan of MLive: The Red Wings will get Brad Stuart back tonight, Valtteri Filppula back next week, and possibly Mike Modano in 2 week. These are some of the reasons as to why GM Ken Holland indicated they may not make any trades by the deadline.
Habs looking for top 6 and a Dman … Senators that are/might be available … White may be dealt soon … Flyers shopping Zherdev
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 17th, 2011
- David Pagnotta via twitter: The Canadiens are still looking for a top 6 forward, and adding Paul Mara doesn’t prevent them from adding another defenseman. Mara was a depth move with a cap hit of $210,000 for them. Still looking to add another Dman.
- Eric Engels via twitter: Canadiens fans may be excited that there team inquired about Tomas Kaberle and rumored Robyn Regehr, but they aren’t going in those directions.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Senators GM Bryan Murray,
“I’m not trying to trade everybody,” said Murray following the Kelly deal.
“I’m trying to trade some other people or move some other people, but it’s certainly not a housecleaning by any means.”
Top candidates to be moved by the Senators: Chris Phillips, Jarkko Ruutu, Chris Neil (Pens and Habs interested), and Chris Campoli. Possible Senators on the move: Milan Michalek, Filip Kuba and Matt Carkner. They’ll try to move Sergei Gonchar and Alex Kovalev.
- Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer: The Carolina Hurricanes are considering a trade offer for Ian White, and he could be moved in the next day or two, or not at all.
“Teams out there are looking for different things, and we have something to consider,” Rutherford said in an interview Wednesday. “This could go one way or the other.
“We have an offer, so we decided to pull [White] back for a day or two. But he could be back in the lineup this week.”
It’s not known which team made the offer, if it was a player-for-player deal or draft picks or prospects.
- Mike Gillis (Canucks GM) via twitter: Trade rumors involving the Canucks [yesterday] are completely false. (He is referring to the rumors that they were acquiring Ian White)
- Anthony Sanfilippo of DelcoTimes: Ville Leino missed last night’s game but should be able to go Friday according to Paul Holmgren. The Flyers opted to use Jody Shelly instead of Nik Zherdev in Leino’s place. The Flyers are trying to trade Zherdev, and if they can’t find any takers he might get waived.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: When talking about Ales Hemsky trade rumors he asked, “What am I worth?” Matheson thinks that when looking at the deal the Senators and Leafs got for Mike Fisher and Kris Versteeg, it would be more than that. A 1st round pick and another draft pick or good NHLer?
- Andy Strickland of True Hockey: The Atlanta Thrashers have begun contract talks with Andrew Ladd, and should have a deal done by the trade deadline. Strickland doesn’t see the Avalanche doing much. The Blue Jackets will look to move a Dman for a forward. Penguins are looking for a forward, with minor rumblings that they’d move Alex Goligoski. Don’t expect anything from the Blackhawks. If the Sabres fallout of playoff contention they might move Jordan Leopold. A couple teams are looking at Blues forward Brad Winchester, including the Canucks. The Blues have made Ty Conklin available and will consider Eric Brewer who would consider waiving his no-trade clause for the right team.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Dater can’t see a contender interested in Avs goalie Craig Anderson.
- Scott Burnside and Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: Brunside doesn’t see the Flyers doing much more given their cap situation. The Lightning are looking for defensive help, and won’t give up a 1st or 2nd round picks in a trade. LeBrun doesn’t think the Hurricanes will move Joni Pitkanen unless the fall out of contention before the deadline. John-Michael Liles may be a fallback for the “failed Kaberle suitors.” Alex Kovalev could be a nice fit in Pittsburgh, maybe for a 4th or 5th round pick.
Rumors involving the Kings, Senators, Blackhawks, Red Wings, Hurricanes … and some injury notes
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL Rumors on February 12th, 2011
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: The LA Kings are intrigued by Oilers forward Ales Hemsky. The Oilers are listening to offers but are not desperate to trade him. The Kings hope more teams fall out of the playoff race, increasing the amount of talent that might be available. Money is once again an issue for the Dallas Stars at the deadline, as it’s unknown if the lenders will give them the go ahead to add some help, they have struggled of late and are dropping in the standings. If they continue to drop in the standings and are on the playoff bubble, they make look for Brad Richards packages. As of yesterday, Senators GM Murray still hadn’t heard what Chris Phillips was thinking regarding waiving his no-trade. Sharks aren’t saying much about what they are planning on doing, have been looking for a top 4 defenseman in the past. Seabrook rumors were a “total fabrication.”
- Helene Elliott via twitter: The LA Kings are still looking for a high-end forward. They were not in the late discussions with Ottawa for Mike Fisher.
- Adam Jahns via twitter: Chicago Blackhawks GM Stan Bowman, “We’re trying to find a defenseman that can be a penalty-killing type and eat up some minutes on the PK.”
- Darren Dreger of TSN: If the Red Wings continue to struggle defensively in the next 2 weeks, GM Ken Holland may look to make a deal. Though the Hurricanes would need a defenseman as part of the deal, they could consider trading Joe Corvo, Joni Pitkanen or Ian White.
- Dan Tencer via twitter: McGuire (I’m guessing Pierre) on Sheldon Souray, “There’s some talk about Montreal for Sheldon.”
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: UFA’s Chris Phillips and Jarkko Ruutu are as good as gone by the trade deadline. The Senators are also getting some interest in Filip Kuba, Chris Kelly, and Chris Neil. Garrioch doesn’t think anyone will want Alex Kovalev. The Canadiens, Bruins, Sharks and Ducks are looking for defenseman and could be interested in Phillips. Chris Campoli may be a good fit in Anaheim, a UFA at season’s end. If they dealt Phillips to Montreal, they may want Max Pacioretty in the deal.
- Ian Walker via twitter: Dan Hamhuis is out indefinitely with a concussion.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: Jonas Gustavsson will be out at least a week after he underwent a heart ablation procedure yesterday (his 3rd since the beginning of last year).
- James Mirtle of the Globe and Mail: JS Giguere will start in net for the Maple Leafs tonight against the Canadiens. Giguere met with GM Brian Burke to discuss if they’ll look to trade him or not. He’d like to remain with the Leafs but would want to play if he does. “Hopefully I can give them a reason to keep me. I don’t know what’s going to happen. I don’t even know if there’s a trade market for me anywhere. I still make a lot of money, so it’s something that can be tricky. I haven’t asked – anyway, I’m going to stop there.”
- Chris Vivlamore via twitter: Teams scouting the Thrashers-Rangers games last night were the Flyers, Red Wings and Canadiens. Steve Zipay adds the the Bruins were also there.
- Thomas Reed via twitter: Scouts at the Blue Jackets-Avalanche game last night were the Thrashers, Flyers, Coyotes, Canucks, Maple Leafs, Penguins, Senators, Bruins, and Capitals.
- David Rogers via twitter: John Davidson is reporting the David Perron is taking part in light workouts, but isn’t at the stage to begin skating.
Players with the worst plus/minus so far this season
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Opinion on January 28th, 2011
So the all-star break is upon us (yawn), and in honor this 4 day break, I decided to put together a list of the worst plus/minuses so far this season. I’m still amazed (and annoyed, on my fantasy team) that Kovalchuk leads this category. I know he doesn’t always focus on the defensive side of the things but….. Finding 4 San Jose Sharks is also a bit of a surprise. Maple Leafs defenseman/forward Brett Lebda is a funny case as he’s a -19 in 22 games, that’s terrible.
| Player | Team | GP | +/- | G | A | P | ESP | SHP | PPP |
| Ilya Kovalchuk | NJD | 48 | -29 | 14 | 15 | 29 | 16 | 0 | 13 |
| Chris Phillips | OTT | 50 | -23 | 0 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 0 | 1 |
| John Tavares | NYI | 46 | -21 | 18 | 18 | 36 | 21 | 0 | 15 |
| Henrik Tallinder | NJD | 49 | -20 | 2 | 6 | 8 | 5 | 1 | 2 |
| Brett Lebda | TOR | 22 | -19 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| Patrick Marleau | SJS | 50 | -19 | 18 | 18 | 36 | 17 | 1 | 18 |
| David Clarkson | NJD | 49 | -19 | 8 | 4 | 12 | 10 | 0 | 2 |
| Phil Kessel | TOR | 49 | -19 | 19 | 15 | 34 | 21 | 1 | 12 |
| Simon Gagne | TBL | 33 | -19 | 9 | 4 | 13 | 8 | 0 | 5 |
| Andy Greene | NJD | 49 | -19 | 3 | 15 | 18 | 12 | 0 | 6 |
| James Wisniewski | NYI, MTL | 45 | -19 | 5 | 28 | 33 | 12 | 0 | 21 |
| Filip Kuba | OTT | 32 | -18 | 0 | 4 | 4 | 2 | 0 | 2 |
| Sergei Gonchar | OTT | 50 | -17 | 6 | 15 | 21 | 5 | 0 | 16 |
| Dennis Wideman | FLA | 49 | -17 | 6 | 19 | 25 | 12 | 0 | 13 |
| Erik Karlsson | OTT | 48 | -17 | 8 | 20 | 28 | 14 | 0 | 14 |
| Nick Foligno | OTT | 50 | -16 | 8 | 11 | 19 | 13 | 0 | 6 |
| Dominic Moore | TBL | 46 | -15 | 8 | 9 | 17 | 14 | 0 | 3 |
| Kris Versteeg | TOR | 46 | -15 | 12 | 19 | 31 | 18 | 0 | 13 |
| Blake Comeau | NYI | 48 | -15 | 13 | 17 | 30 | 21 | 0 | 9 |
| Rich Peverley | ATL | 52 | -14 | 13 | 15 | 28 | 17 | 2 | 9 |
| Adam Mair | NJD | 43 | -14 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Kristian Huselius | CBJ | 27 | -14 | 9 | 6 | 15 | 10 | 0 | 5 |
| Olli Jokinen | CGY | 48 | -14 | 9 | 21 | 30 | 19 | 0 | 11 |
| Devin Setoguchi | SJS | 41 | -14 | 10 | 5 | 15 | 12 | 0 | 3 |
| Joe Thornton | SJS | 48 | -14 | 13 | 31 | 44 | 18 | 1 | 25 |
| Joe Pavelski | SJS | 42 | -14 | 9 | 22 | 31 | 15 | 0 | 16 |
| Tyler Bozak | TOR | 49 | -14 | 8 | 12 | 20 | 13 | 0 | 7 |
| BJ Crombeen | STL | 49 | -14 | 5 | 5 | 10 | 9 | 1 | 0 |
Leino and Flyers working on a deal … Moving Senators … Callahan, Prospal activated … Cox’s plan for Leafs … Weber options
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on January 26th, 2011
- Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: The Philadelphia Flyers and Ville Leino continue talks and agent, Bill Zito texted, “I am optimistic we’ll get a deal done.” The Flyers have about $4.1 million in ‘tagging’ space for next season. Leino is making $825,000 this season and could be looking for a deal in the $2.3 million range. Other Flyers UFA’s are Brian Boucher, Sean O’Donnell, and Nik Zherdev. RFA’s are Dan Carcillo, Andreas Nodl, and Darroll Powe. James van Riemsdyk is nursing a groin injury but should be ready to go after the break.
- Ottawa Sun: Garrioch was originally surprised the Senators didn’t put a waiver claim on Evgeni Nabokov. They contacted his agent and found out he wouldn’t go to Ottawa. Brennan thinks they can find someone who’d be interested in Sergei Gonchar, and points out that if they find a team to take Filip Kube, that GM should be fired. Garrioch thinks Jarrko Ruutu will be traded, and that the Bruins should take a run at Chris Phillips. They’ll listen to offers for Mike Fisher.
- Darren Dreger via twtter: Dreger talked to Fisher’s agent who said he hasn’t submitted a list of teams that he’d okay/not okay a trade to, and won’t until he’s asked.
- Jesse Spector of the NY Daily News: The NY Rangers activated Ryan Callahan and Vinny Prospal from the IR and sent Michael Del Zotto, Brodie Dupont, Evgeny Grachev, Chad Kolarik and Kris Newbury back to the AHL.
- Damien Cox of the Toronto Star: Heading into the all-star break Cox makes 2 points (1) That James Reimer is the teams best goalie at the moment and should continue to play for the big club. (2) “this notion that the Leafs will be looking to add talent by next month’s trade deadline for some kind of late-season playoff run is at best fanciful and at worst incomprehensible.” They should sell off and acquire futures. The team should look to improve for next fall, acquiring prospects or draft picks.
- Iain MacIntyre of the Vancouver Sun: Kevin Bieksa is putting together a solid season, and may force the Canucks into deciding to either re-sign him or Christian Ehrhoff, both will be UFA’s after the season. “I’ve got more,” Bieksa said. “I’d love to be here. Love to finish my career here. Maybe the feeling is mutual.”
- Ed Willis of the Vancouver Province: Shea Weber will be a RFA at the end of the season, and may start thinking at a change of scenery may be good after not getting past the 1st round of the playoffs in 5 years (4 times in the playoffs). Many pieces have been traded off, and the team has trouble getting to the next level. He could tell the team (could, not has), “Look, I’ve given you six good seasons. I’m going to be unrestricted in another season and I’d like to win. Why don’t you move me while you can still get something for me?” The Predators would likely want to lock him up long-term at a reasonable number.
Senators about to enter re-building mode
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Rumors on January 24th, 2011
- Roy MacGregor of the Globe and Mail: In many minds, the Ottawa Senators season is a write off, and it’s time to look towards next season. The fans will likely accept a complete rebuild. Bryan Murray is rumored to be moving to a Senior Adviser role with the club. Eugene Melnyk has said the Cory Clouston will finish the year out as the teams coach, Murray will finish the year before handing the team off to someone else. Pierre McGuire has already been interviewed for the GM job, and there will be more interviews to take place. Coaching replacements could be Kirk Muller, Craig MacTavish and Kevin Dineen. Whoever is hired as the next coach will be chosen by the next GM. Murray will continue to look to unload his ‘assets’. Under-achieving Alex Kovalev could be moved, as well as defenseman Sergei Gonchar. Daniel Alfredsson and Chris Phillips may be asked to waive their no-trade clauses.
- Wayne Scanlan of the Ottawa Citizen: Bryan Murray will continue to attempt to find new homes for Chris Phillips, Jarkko Ruutu, and Alex Kovalev, and bring in prospects and draft picks. Owner Melnyk said the team needs a ‘game changer’ but that will likely have to wait until the draft where they’ll likely pick in the top 5. They will look to build the team from within, and not go after any expensive free agents this off-season.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Garrioch lists Jarrko Ruutu, Filip Kuba, Alex Kovalev, Sergei Gonchar and Chris Phillips as players that could be traded.
Yzerman won’t trade top draft picks … Canucks Dman update … Salary dump in Ottawa … Semin out 2 games
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on January 10th, 2011
- Damian Cristodero of the St. Petersburg Times: As the trade deadline approaches, don’t expect Lightning GM Steve Yzerman to include any 1st to 3rd round 2011 or 2012 draft picks to in bring some additional help. Yzerman added “I don’t want to hold myself up to say we’re not going to do anything. But I think it would be very difficult to add without giving something up of great value I wouldn’t want to give up.”
- Eric Francis of the Calgary Sun: Though he’s back practicing, there is no guarantee that Sami Salo will play again this year. Canucks GM Gillis told the Sun, “I think people are really jumping the gun,” “For some reason, people want to discount the type of injury he had. He suffered a 95% rupture of his Achilles tendon. There are people who never walk after something like that. We don’t know if he’s going to play. He’s three practices in and it’s going OK, but it’s still a long ways off.” Gillis also said he won’t talk about contract extensions for Kevin Bieksa and Christian Ehrhoff until the season is over.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: 2 sources have told the Sun that the Senators GM Bryan Murray is trying to dump salary. Trade candidates could be Chris Phillips, Filip Kuba, Alex Kovalev, Peter Regin, and Milan Michalek.
- James O’Brien of ProHockeyTalk: Alexander Semin will miss at least the next 2 games according to coach Boudreau.
- Ken Warren of the Ottawa Sun: Senators winger Alex Kovalev will miss at least a week with his ongoing knee injury. Mike Fisher is expected to be able to go against the Bruins, he blocked a shot with his knee over the weekend.
- Ben Kuzma via twitter: Canucks center Ryan Kesler has an injured thumb, but is expecting to play tomorrow.
- Jonas Siegel via twitter: Colby Armstrong is likely able to go for the Leafs tonight according to coach Ron Wilson.
Could Winnipeg support a team? Doan at least a week away … Bernier possible broken cheekbone, Burns to be suspended?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on November 13th, 2010
- Toronto Sun: It’s been awhile since the Sun group posted an article on how Winnipeg can support an NHL team. Mario Lefebvre (Conference Board of Canada director – I have no idea what that means) says that Winnipeg, Quebec City and Hamilton all reach 4 things necessary to have a successful sports organization. “1) the size of the market; 2) the wealth of the market; 3) a sound corporate presence; 4) a level playing field.”
- Jim Gintonio via twitter: Shane Doan is at least a week away from returning to the Phoenix Coyotes lineup.
- Craig Custance of the SportingNews: The Coyotes sent defensive prospect Oliver Ekman-Larsson to the minors yesterday, but it’s not expected to be a long stay. According to GM Don Maloney, “Rather than sit him in and out of the lineup, we just thought we should let him play in all situations in the [AHL].” “Whether it’s two weeks or two months, I don’t know,” he said. “He’s a good player for us. I think he’ll help us this year.”
- Ron Brennan of the Ottawa Sun: Filip Kuba will see how he feels this morning, and if he’s able to go. But as Brennan points out, he’s been close before without playing. Kuba was cleared last week by doctors, and in a roundabout way, questions is manhood. Other teammates are fighting through their injuries. Mike Fisher is battling through an upper-body injury.
- Iain MacIntyre of the Vancouver Sun: Peter Schaefer will be a healthy scratch again tonight, and could find his days number with the Vancouver Canucks. He’s on a 2-way contract and could be sent to the minors.
- George Richards of the Miami Herald: Steve Bernier of the Florida Panthers was taken to the hospital after being hit in the face by Brent Burns, who still had his stick in his hand. Bernier has a cut under his eye and possibly a broken cheekbone. After watching the below video, I’m sure the NHL will be taking a look at it.
Gaborik returns … Guerin closer to retirement … Satan signing soon? Kuba to return on Saturday? Brodeur practices
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News on November 11th, 2010
- Andrew Gross of the Bergon Record: Marian Gaborik will be back in the lineup for the New York Rangers tonight. Gaborik has missed 12 games with a separated shoulder. Defenseman Michal Rozsival could be out another 7-10 days.
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: Bill Guerin hasn’t heard much in the last 2-3 weeks on a potential contract, and his side hasn’t actively pursued anything. Guerin is keeping his options open but it’s sounding like retirement is coming.
- Eric Engels via twitter: Engels has been told that Miro Satan is close to signing with an NHL team.
- Eric Stephens via twitter: Andy Sutton and Joffery Lupul took part in non-contact drills at Ducks practice today.
- Howard Berger via twitter: Lines at Maple Leafs practice: Grabovski-Kessel-Kulemin together, Bozak-MacArthur-Versteeg.
- Ian Mendes via twitter: Pascal Leclaire will start for the Ottawa Senators versus the Canucks. Brian Elliot has a small injury, and Leclaire has played well against them in the past.
- Wayne Scanlan via twitter: Filip Kuba could return to the Senators lineup on Saturday.
- Tim Panaccio via twitter: Nothing to update on the Jeff Carter – Philadelphia Flyers contract negotiations, both sides are still talking.
- Rich Chere via twitter: Martin Brodeur practiced with the Devils today.
Hossa has ‘upper-body’ injury … Canucks blueline getting thin … Polak has surgery … Latendresse out with bad groin
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on October 28th, 2010
- Tim Sassone of the Daily Herald: Blackhawks forward Marian Hossa left last night’s game in the 2nd period and didn’t return. Hossa suffered an upper-body injury and will be re-evaluated today.
- Iain MacIntyre of the Vancouver Sun: The Vancouver Canucks could be without another defenseman as Andrew Alberts did not practice yesterday after injuring his knee against the Avalanche, an MRI is scheduled for today. The Canucks are already without Sami Salo (Achilles), Keith Ballard (concussion) and Dan Hamhuis (foot). Hamhuis is still unable to skate.
- Joe Haggerty via twitter: Bruins coach Claude Julian on Marc Savard and Marco Sturm, “More encouraging lately, but still a ways away. Don’t think you’ll see either 1[practicing] in the next week or so.”
- Jonas Siegel via twitter: Toronto Maple Leafs winger Kris Versteeg is day-to-day with a back issue, but should ready to go tonight versus the Bruins.
- Andy Strickland of True Hockey: Filip Kuba is expected to start practicing with the Ottawa Senators soon. He’s been skating on his own lately, as he’s recovering from breaking a non-weight bearing bone in his leg. Pascal Leclaire could be 4-7 days away from returning.
- Ken Warren of the Ottawa Citizen: Jason Spezza skated on his own yesterday, but not with the team. He’s out for tonight, and has missed 4 games so far this season with the groin injury. They are hoping for a Saturday return.
- James Mirtle via twitter: St. Louis Blues defenseman Roman Polak will out indefinitely after wrist surgery. Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: Polak will have the surgery today to repair a severed tendon in his right wrist. His wrist will be re-evaluated in 10-14 days to better establish when he could return.
- Michael Russo of the Star-Tribune: Minnesota Wild’s winger Guillaume Latendresse will be out tonight due to a groin injury.
Panthers looking for an explanation … Backes at $5 million? MRI for Armstrong … Spezza playing Saturday?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Videos on October 27th, 2010
- Ian Mendes via twitter: Florida Panthers coach Peter DeBoer said that Dale Tallon will seek to get further explanation on the Colton Orr’s goal from last night. (video of goal at bottom of this entry with Kypreos, Watters and Millard talking about it).
- Andy Strickland of True Hockey: St. Louis Blues forward David Backes will be an unrestricted free agent this summer, both sides would like to get something done, but there is no rush. Backes may look to deals signed by Patrice Bergeron and Ryan Kesler as comparables, in the $5 million range. Kesler may have a more offensive upside that Backes, but plays a similar all-round game. Backes intangibles make him a valuable commodity.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: MRI on Colby Arstrong will be this afternoon. Luca Caputi expected to get the call-up from the Maple Leafs. Update: Nick Kypreos via twiter: Colby Armstrong may need surgery on his hand, could be out 4-6 weeks.
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: Jason Spezza, Erik Karlsson, Milan Michalek, Robyn Lehner and Filip Kuba are not on the ice at Senators practice. Ian Mendes noted that coach Clouston says that Spezza is targeting Saturday versus Boston, unlikely for Thursday.
- James Mirtle via twitter: Bryan McCabe is happy in Florida and is hopeful to get another contract from the Panthers.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Jeff Skinner was told to find a place to live in Raleigh, he won’t be going back to Kitchener of the OHL.
- Craig Custance via twitter: Atlanta Thrashers GM Dudley told Custance that there is a 99% chance that Burmistrov will stay with the club.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Erik Ersberg will take his KHL medical today, expected to sign with Salavat Yulaev after.
Will facts come out in Kovalchuk benching today? Plenty of players not at practice today … New #1 line in Toronto?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on October 25th, 2010
- Greg Brady via twitter: From a Devils insider, Kovalchuk’s benching had nothing to do with his on-ice play. Brady speculates that it might come out today what the real reason was, theory is the he skipped or was late for special teams meeting.
- Joe Haggerty of CSNNE: David Krejci was absent for the Bruins practice today. Andrew Ference moved up to the #1 defensive pairing with Zdeno Chara now that Johnny Boychuk is out. Dennis Seidenberg is with Mark Stuart. Matt Hunwick is with Adam McQuaid.
- James Murphy of ESPN Boston: In December when Marc Savard and Marco Sturm come off LTIR ($7.5 million combined), the Bruins will have to move out a couple bodies. They currently have $1.8 million in cap space with the 2 on LTIR. It’s been mentioned for awhile that Michael Ryder and his $4 million salary could be on his way out, but they’ll have to move more than that. Marco Strum hasn’t been approached about waiving his no movement clause, and it’s unlikely that he would. Blake Wheeler ($2.2 million) and Matt Hunwich ($1.4 million) are possible trade candidates.
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: Columbus Blue Jackets left winger Kristian Huselius will not play tonight against the Flyers due to a foot/ankle injury.
- Will DePaoli via twitter: The Pittsburgh Penguins have assigned Eric Tangradi and Andrew Hutchinson to the AHL. So it looks like Aaron Asham and Zbynek Michalek are ready to go.
- Ben Wright via twitter: Peter Mannino has been assigned to the AHL, Ondrej Pavelec has been activated from IR.
- Jonas Siegel via twitter: Nikolai Kulemin was skating with Tyler Bozak and Phil Kessel at Maple Leafs practice today. Versteeg was with Grabovski and MacArthur.
- Corey Masisak via twitter: Mike Green and Tom Poti are practicing today, Karl Alzner and John Carlson are not. Masisak reports that Poti lasted only 10 minutes at the Capitals practice. Katie Carrera reports that Alzner was excused for personal reasons. Masisak reports that Brooks Laich is playing defense at practice today.
- Allen Panzeri via twitter: Jason Spezza, Filip Kuba, and Pascal Leclaire are not at the Senators practice today.
- Erik Erlendsson via twitter: Missing from the Lightning’s practice today: Simon Gagne (neck), Dominic Moore (lower-body), Brett Clark (wrist), Matt Smaby (illness) and Mattias Ohlund (rest).
- Kevin Oklobzija of the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Michael Nylander will undergo surgery today for an injury to one of his vertebra in his neck. Nylander was checked into the boards with what appeared to be a legal hit. It could be career ending.
- Genadi Boguslavski via twitter: Eugeni Artiukin is close to joining SKA.
Sens still trying to make a deal, tight against the cap … Boychuk out a month … Kovalchuk plays, scores only goal … plus more
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on October 25th, 2010
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Senators GM Bryan Murray hasn’t been able to find a trade partner yet in his attempt to shake up his team. They are tight against the salary cap, which could be marking it harder to pull off a deal. Capgeek is showing that they are only $75,000 under the cap. The Sens are trying to move Brian Lee and his $875,000 salary since the summer, but he hasn’t played well. Teams are willing to take Nick Foligno or Erik Karlsson, but Murray isn’t interested in moving them. Filip Kuba should be practicing with the team early this week.
- Rich Thompson of the Boston Herald: Boston Bruins defenseman Johnny Boychuk will be out for about a month after a ‘slight’ fracture in his left forearm. It won’t require surgery. Boychuk took a slash from Brandon Dubinsky.
- Mark Everson of the NY Post: The New Jersey Devils rank last in scoring and in points, and have benched their $100 million man. Everson thinks they need to stop juggling their lines and let them find a way to work together. Kovalchuk scored the teams only goal last night after his one game banishment to the press box. Kovalchuk added this about his healthy scratch,”The coach decided to give me a little rest and that’s about it. That’s his decision. It’s going to stay between me and him. I’m just a player so I’m going to show up so I can play.”
- Tom Gulitti of the Bergon Record: Other reactions about Kovalchuk’s first game back.“I’m hungry night when I’m playing because that’s my job and we’re all professionals,” Kovalchuk said. “We all have to realize when we step on the ice, you have to do your best.”“I thought Kovy was fine,” Maclean said. “He played hard, skated hard. He got a goal there and some other chances.” “He was playing with some energy,” Langenbrunner said. “He’s as frustrated as anybody with the way things have gone and he wants to do his part to get us going back in the right direction. He did that scoring a goal again. He has a knack for putting himself in those positions and it was a great pass by (Dainius Zubrus). We’re going to need more of that, just battle and get pucks to the net. That was all created by cycling pucks off the net.”
- Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: RW Aaron Asham will likely be healthy enough to go on Wednesday. LW Eric Tangardi doesn’t have to clear waivers so he could be sent down. Zbynek Michalek had a full practice yesterday. Dman Andrew Hutchinson could also be sent down, as the Pens have 8 defenseman practicing.
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Anaheim Ducks winger Dan Sexton has a broken nose after taking a shot in the face from Ruslan Salei on Saturday night. It’s not known yet how long Sexton will be out. He could return to Anaheim today for further tests.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: The Dallas Stars are still unsure if Jamie Benn is better served as a winger or a centerman. The last 2 games he’s played on the wing with Steve Ott and Ton Wandell. Last year was the first year he’s ever played center. Marc Crawford said it’s a game-by-game decision on where he plays.
Stars looking for revenue sharing money? Does Winnipeg have the Corporate support? Doughty out a week … Greiss to Sweden
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on October 22nd, 2010
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning Star: The Dallas Stars are looking for future revenue sharing money. The Hockey News reported earlier this week that they’ve already received $8 million, but other reports are that they are in process of finding out how they can get some extra money. The lenders who are in control of the team after the Hicks Sports Group defaulted on $525 million in loans, doesn’t want to put the team into “bankruptcy because of complications and the possible loss of control over the sale.” The Stars have asked the league for an advance on revenue sharing, which would come in a line of credit.
- Paul Friesen of the Winnipeg Sun: Friesen looks at if Winnipeg has enough corporate support necessary for the survival of an NHL team.
The Sun contacted about one-third of the luxury suite holders at MTS Centre, and 17 of the 25 executives we reached said they would renew their suites at our predicted NHL price, which is triple the current rate.
Three more said they’d reduce their portion of their suites but stay involved, while three said they weren’t sure.
Just two of the 25 said the high price tag would force them out of the game.
They would expect the corporate suites to be about $180,000 a year. In comparison, the Oilers start around $150,000. Some people don’t think a Winnipeg NHL could survive long term, and the city may be better off without it, as people would spread their money around. Now, saying you would pay $180,000 is a lot different than when you have to actually pay $180,000. I’m still not sure the city can support a team to where it’s close to or is profitable.
- Helene Elliott of the LA Times: Los Angeles Kings defenseman Drew Doughty will be out at least a week. The hit between Doughty and Erik Cole was deemed incidental by the league, and no punishment will be handed to Cole. “What they said is that [Cole] wasn’t necessarily trying to hit Doughty but they both turned,” Lombardi said. “Whether you agree with that or not, the logic, I get. It’s not inconsistent with the way the rule is designed.”
- Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: Columbus Blue Jackets forward Ethan Moreau will be out 4-6 weeks following surgery to repair at least 2 broken bone in his right hand.
- David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News: San Jose Sharks goaltender Thomas Greiss was assigned to Brynas of the Swedish Elite League as Alex Stalock took control of the #1 spot in Worcester (AHL). Greiss has really fallen this year. Before they signed Antti Niemi he was to battle Antero Niittymaki for the #1 spot with the Sharks, he cleared waivers, and then can’t get win starting spot with their farm club.
- Wayne Scanlan in the Ottawa Citizen: The Senators expect their veterans to come around, but they are playing close attention to their young guys, especially on the backend. Erik Karlsson is taking the brunt of criticism. Some are saying he’s not in as good of shape as he was last year. The loss of Filip Kuba (broken leg) has thrown the defensive pairings out of whack, he is skating but not with teammates yet.
Problems in Ottawa? Senators looking to make a move
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on October 21st, 2010
- Ken Warren of the Ottawa Citizen: Things aren’t going well in Ottawa so far this season. Ottawa Senators GM Bryan Murray thinks that Alexei Kovalev may be skating slower this year, possibly due to his off-season knee surgery, though Kovalev disagrees. Kovalev practiced yesterday on the 4th line with Ryan Shannon and Jesse Winchester. Jason Spezza missed yesterday’s practice, but was a ‘maintenance day’ according to Cory Clouston. Filip Kuba skated without equipment yesterday, he’s recovering from a broken leg he sustained on the first day of training camp. Pascal Leclaire could return to the ice today, but won’t see game action before next week.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Murray hasn’t been happy with the way the team has played defensively, and called out his young guys (Erik Karlsson and Brian Lee). Chris Phillips has to be their top defender, has played well with Sergei Gonchar, but they haven’t been able to use that pairing as much as they’d like. Murray defended the play of Phillips, Spezza, Alfredsson and Fisher.
- Lisa Wallace (CP) in the Globe and Mail: Murray is looking to shake things up, and is considering making a move.
“I’ve talked to a number of people,” Murray added. “I talked to (Minnesota Wild general manager) Chuck Fletcher for a long time yesterday and said, ‘Can I help you, you help me’ type of thing, so we’re talking to management of other teams, trying to find if there is a need and a possibility of making a move.”
“We’re not moving the puck up from the back end, we’re not defending very well and we’re giving up far too many chances,” said Murray. “I just think we turn the puck over in our own end and we haven’t battled defensively the way we should and the way we’re capable of doing in my own opinion. The result is we’re scrambling for the puck too often.”
Now I don’t have a problem with Murray coming out and saying the club is struggling and he’s looking to shake things up. The thing that surprised me is that he mentions that he’s talked with Wild GM Chuck Fletcher.
If you were Fletcher, would you pissed that another GM mentioned your name in potential trade talks? I would. I’m interested to hear what you think about this, leave a comment with your thoughts on this situation.
Price to start tonight … Spezza injury notes … Kuba 3-4 weeks away and more
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News on October 7th, 2010
- Dave Stubbs via twitter: Carey Price will start for the Montreal Canadiens tonight.
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: Jason Spezza wasn’t on the ice today as he’s still bothered by his ‘tweak’. Senators coach Cory Clouston doesn’t think it will be a long term injury. Clouston, “We’re not going to push him for one game and have him miss four or five games”. Ian Mendes reports new Sens lines, Foligno-Fisher-Alfredsson, Michalek-Regin-Kovalev.
- Ian Mendes via twitter: Filip Kuba is riding a stationary bike now, and hopes to return in 3-4 weeks.
- Ian Walker via twitter: Andrew Peters who was acquired by the Vancouver Canucks for Shane O’Brien, will stay with the AHL Rochester American rather than report to the AHL Manitoba Moose.
- Rich Chere of the Star-Ledger: Adam Mair still doesn’t have a contract with the New Jersey Devils, but continues to practice with the club. “Right now the Devils have only 11 forwards. They liked the way Mair performed during the preseason while on a tryout, but they do not have the cap space to sign him.”
- George Sipple of the Detroit Free Press: Kirk Maltby and Derek Meech cleared waivers. Maltby will meet with Red Wings GM Ken Holland possibly today to see if he’ll retire or report to Grand Rapids. Holland hopes he’ll report.
- Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: Columbus GM Scott Howson is not forcing the issue when it comes to improving their defensive corps.
Kuba out 5-6 weeks … Little-Peverley switching positions … Weber-Suter split up? Hodgson back Wednesday?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on September 20th, 2010
- Ken Warren of the Ottawa Citizen: Filip Kuba will miss 5-6 weeks after breaking his leg on the first day of training camp. His leg won’t require surgery.
- Helene Elliott of the LA Times: Through 2 days of training camp, the top 3 lines have consisted of Anze Kopitar-Ryan Smyth-Dustin Brown; Jarret Stoll-Scott Parse-Justin Williams; and Michal Handzus-Alexei Ponikarovsky-Wayne Simmonds. Coach Terry Murray envisions a “gritty, heavy” fourth line.
- Chris Vivlamore of the Atlanta Journal Consitution: Bryan Little, who has played the last 2 seasons on right wing, will move to center. Rich Peverley, who played center last year, has moved over to the right side.
- Josh Copper of the Tennessean: Nashville Predators coach, Barry Trotz, is thinking of breaking up the defensive pair of Shea Weber and Ryan Suter.
- Josh Cooper of the Tennessean: Mark Dekanich heads into camp as the leading candidate to the be the backup for Pekka Rinne over Chet Pickard. GM David Poile has hinted that he may look outside for a backup goalie. Ryan Suter and Steve Sullivan were named as alternate captains.
- Iain MacIntyre of the Vancouver Province: Cody Hodgson could rejoin the full team Vancouver Canucks on Wednesday. Saturday and Sunday he was skating at the 2nd rink with “slightly injured players and fringe prospects”. Alex Burrows is still recovering from shoulder surgery, he’s skating but not taking contact. Mikael Samuelsson is expected to move up from the 2nd line to take Burrows spot until he comes back. A time frame for Burrows return may be known later this week after strength tests.
- Jesse Spector of the NY Daily News: The New York Rangers continue to build around their young core, and with many young guys looking good in camp, some veterans may find themselves on the outside. Derek Stepan has been centering Marian Gaborik and Alexander Frolov.
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