Posts Tagged Jack Johnson
Rumors involving the Devils, Wild, Canadiens, Leafs, Ducks, Flames, Preds, Sabres, Flyers … Injury notes on Koivu, Benn, Wheeler and Steen
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on January 16th, 2012
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Sources have been saying that Devils Lou Lamoriello has been gauging what Zach Parise could fetch on the trade market. Moving Parise if they are in the playoff race will be difficult decision to make. The Wild will definitely be an interested team. Lou will want a top young player, a prospect and a 1st rounder in return for Parise. The Wild may have to wait until the offseason and try to sign him as a UFA. If the Canadiens fire GM Pierre Gauthier in the offseason, Lightning GM Julien Brisbois and Pierre McGuire could be options. Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke appears to be targeting Ducks forward Bobby Ryan. It would likely cost the Leafs Joe Colborne or Nazem Kadri, a prospect and a 1st round pick. Jarome Iginla won’t be traded this season, but if they decide to move him in the offseason, the Capitals, Kings and Sharks could be interested. The Predators are doing all they can to re-sign defenseman Ryan Suter. If they don’t think they can re-sign him, he’d be a nice fit in Philly. The Hurricanes could start moving their UFAs at any moment. Should expect the Blue Jackets to make one big move before the end of the season, and Jeff Carter could be on his way out. The Leafs could be interested, but he’s under contract till 2021-22 with a $5.2 million cap hit. The Sabres might be offering up Derek Roy in hopes of getting bigger. The 5′ 9″ Roy carries a $4 million cap hit and has struggled this year. The Blackhawks may show some interest. Islanders winger P.A. Parenteau would be a nice fit in Pittsburgh.
- Eric Francis of the Calgary Sun: Despite GM Bob Murray saying that Saku Koivu and Teeme Selanne are untouchable, Selanne refused to confirm he’ll retire as a Duck:
“We still have time to go,” said Selanne, whose team will likely be all-but-eliminated from the playoff race before the Feb. 27 trade deadline. “We’ll see.”
Brian Burke on whether Flyers James van Riemsdyk concussion will affect trade talk: “No, never was serious.” The Panthers were trying to trade for Sean Avery before they signed John Madden, they are no longer interested. Several GMs think that Shane Doan will become available if the team will be leaving Phoenix. GM Don Maloney denies that he’ll trade Doan.
- Dennis Bernstein via twitter: If the Kings end up trading one of their defenseman, it would likely be Jack Johnson. He’s in the rumors as he’s a 24 year old Dman on a long term deal with a decent salary cap hit.
- Josh Rimer via twitter: The Leafs assigned Jake Gardiner to the minors, but from what Rimer has been told it might be a short stay as the Leafs could be making a deal in the next day or two.
- Michael Russo of the Star Tribune: Sources are saying that Mikko Koivu’s left shoulder injury could keep him out of the lineup for a month. The Wild are already without 2nd liners Guillaume Latendresse and PM Bouchard.
- Dallas Stars via twitter: Stars forward Jamie Benn underwent an appendectomy yesterday and will be out 10-14 days.
- Ed Tait of the Winnipeg Free Press: Jets forward Blake Wheeler did not travel with the team to Ottawa yesterday after taking a shot to the throat on Saturday night. He stayed overnight at a hospital, and tests revealed no damage. He could be released to join the team sometime today or Tuesday.
- Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: Blues forward Alex Steen could return tonight from his concussion. He’s missed their last 8 games.
Afternoon notes on Sharp, Beauchemin, Jacques, Fraser, Brule, Eberle, Bozak, Souray, Riberio, Roy, Skinner, Letang and Markstrom
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Starting Goalies on January 9th, 2012
- Adam Jahns via twitter: Blackhawks forward Patrick Sharp will be out 3 to 4 weeks with a upper-body injury. Tim Sassone via twitter: Though not confirmed, it is believed that Sharp has a broken bone in his left hand/wrist.
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: Ducks defenseman Francois Beauchemin and forward JF Jacques will have hearings at 4 and 5 pm today.
- Eric Stephens via twitter: The Ducks have put defenseman Mark Fraser on waivers.
- Edmonton Oilers via twitter: The Oilers have put forward Gilbert Brule on re-entry waivers. Magnus Paajarvi and Ryan O’Marra have been recalled.
- Dennis Bernstein via twitter: Bernstein thinks the Kings could use Jack Johnson as trade bait for an impact forward.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: The Lightning have signed Tom Pyatt to a 2 year extension, 1-way at $600,000 per season.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: The Blues have signed Ryan Reaves to a 2 year extension at $600,000 per season.
- Joanne Ireland via twitter: Oilers forward Jordan Eberle will have an MRI today, no update until results are in.
- James Mirtle via twitter: Maple Leafs center Tyler Bozak is at least a week away.
- Shelly Anderson via twitter: The Penguins have recalled Eric Tangradi.
- Mark Stepneski via twitter: There is about a 60% chance that Stars defenseman Sheldon Souray plays tomorrow. Center Mike Riberio will be out tomorrow. He’s having an MRI on his knee today to make sure everything is OK.
- Mike Harrington via twitter: Sabres center Derek Roy is wearing a no-contact jersey today at practice.
- Chip Alexander via twitter: Hurricanes forward Jeff Skinner is wearing a no-contact jersey at practice today.
- Dave Moninari via twitter: Penguins defenseman Kris Letang skated hard today. It doesn’t mean he’ll be in the lineup soon, but it’s a positive sign.
- Harvey Fialkov of the Sun-Sentinel: Panthers goalie Jacob Markstrom joins Jose Theodore on the sideline with a knee injury.
- James Mirtle via twitter: Jonas Gustavsson is expected to start for the Leafs tomorrow.
- Mark Stepneski via twitter: Kari Lehtonen is expected to start for the Stars tomorrow.
Trade groundwork has been laid … Time running short for Turris … Devils and Kings talking … Krejci odd man out … Filatov on his way out
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on November 17th, 2011
- Craig Custance of ESPN: Teams are closing in on the point where they know what they have and what they may need. Blue GM Doug Armstrong:
“A lot of groundwork has been laid and (Tuesday) was more putting fertilizer on some of those seeds you planted to see what happens. You get more work done when you’re in the room with 30 people than trying to pick up the phone 30 different times.”
Calgary Flames GM Jay Feaster:
“We have a lot of work to do,” Flames GM Jay Feaster said. “We’re not happy where we are. We need to improve in a lot of areas. This isn’t acceptable to be where we are right now.”
The Hurricanes are 1-5-0 in their last 6 and are in need of a shakeup. The Islanders have dropped to last in the Eastern Conference. The Jets may be thinking long-term and have 2 UFA’s in Chris Mason and Johnny Oduya. Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff:
“I’m not a big believer on putting deadlines on anything,” he said. “You make decisions based on what the right timing is for you. The league puts a lot of deadlines on you for signing guys or trading deadlines, so you certainly have parameters. But I’m not going to put any deadlines on it.”
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: The NHL board of governors will vote on realignment at the Dec. 5th-6th meetings. The Wings would like to move to the Eastern Conference, or at least play home-and-homes with the other Conference. Western Conference teams don’t want to see the Red Wings move to the East. Coyotes GM Don Maloney reiterated his stance with Kyle Turris.
“For the 15-hundredth time, we have no intention of trading him, regardless of the offer, at all whatsoever,” Maloney told ESPN.com.
Turris has 1 and 2 year offers from the Coyotes sitting on the table. The Blue Jackets have intensified their efforts to get a goalie. Antero Niittymaki won’t be back for another 3-4 weeks, but could be on the move at some point. Teams have inquired to see if he’s available.
- The Fourth Period: The LA Kings and NJ Devils maybe talking trade, they are both scouting each other. The Devils have been interested in Jonathan Bernier in the past, but sources close to the Kings have said they are not interested in trading Bernier at this moment, unless blown away by an offer. The Devils may also be looking for some scoring help, but that help likely isn’t coming from the Kings, unless they are interested in Dustin Penner. Dustin Brown and Jack Johnson could be trade candidates as well.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Matheson notes the Predators have positioned themselves well to retain both Ryan Suter and Shea Weber. They may be able to get Suter in the 7 years for $49 million range and Weber for 6 or 5 years at $7.5 million. Matheson doesn’t see them trading either defenseman and wouldn’t be surprised if Alexander Radulov returns to Nashville next season. Matheson also thinks that if Linus Omark isn’t called up in the next month, he’ll head back to Europe.
- James Murphy via twitter: Murphy calls the Rask for Nash rumors bogus and comical.
- Joe Haggerty via twitter: Haggerty thinks that David Krejci could be the odd guy out in Boston with Bergeron and Seguin down the middle. The Bruins aren’t sure he’s a $5 million a year guy.
- Slava Malamud via twitter: CSKA of the KHL is working on a loan with the Senators regarding Nikita Filatov.
- Terry Koshan of the Toronto Sun: Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke has said again that he is not interested in Marty Turco. Names on Burke’s radar could be Scott Clemmensen (FLA), Evgeni Nabokov (NYI) and Antero Niittymaki (SJ). Saturday will mark 4 weeks since James Reimer has hit by Brian Gionta. Ben Scrivens will start tonight, marking his 6th start in the last 7 games.
- Dennis Bernstein via twitter: Bernstein wonders if it’s time for the Trent Hunter experiment in LA to end, and to bring up a young speedy forward.
- Tim Sassone via twitter: If Blackhawks Rostislav Olesz is sent to the minors, they’ll have $6.95 million in cap space. Plenty of room for a center and/or a power play QB.
Nieuwendyk comments on Brad Richards … Peter Stastny Audio … Emery recalled, Hiller may practice tomorrow … Zherdev, Rivet, Svatos hit the waiver wire … plus plenty more
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Audio, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 23rd, 2011
- Peter Stastny Audio posted from Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Paul Stastny’s dad is not happy about the Avs-Blues trade from last week.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: “Nieuwendyk was asked on NHL Live ! about possibly trading Richards”:
“I’ve discussed it with some teams. All options are in play here. It’s certainly not my first choice, I’ve maintained all along that we’d like to keep Brad as a Dallas Star for a long period of time. There’s a lot of uncertainty with our side as far as ownership that are a concern for them. But, all options are open. It’s certainly going to have to be a good type of deal in order to pry him away from us because we are sitting tied for eighth right now and have a lot of home games coming up in March.”
Nick Cotsonika via twitter: Nieuwendyk added that all is quiet on the trade front right now.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Nieuwendyk also said that Richards is feeling better but there is no timetable on his return.
- Pierre LeBrun and Scott Burnside of ESPN: LeBrun notes that if Richards does become available, the Kings will definitely be talking with the Stars. The Rangers and Leafs would be interested in him if/when he becomes a free agent, and may need him to sign an extension before they made a trade for him. The Dallas wanted Jack Johnson from the Kings in a deal for James Neal. Ales Hemsky and David Booth are on the Kings wish list. Everyone seems to ask for Brayden Schenn. LeBrun thinks only a sign and trade that nets Richards would include Schenn. Burnside wouldn’t be surprised if Paul Stastny is being shopped around the league. LeBrun adds there has been no talks between the Kings and Avalanche regarding Stastny (as of Tuesday night). Toronto has kicked the tires on John-Michael Lieles. The Rangers are interested in Bryan McCabe but not at a high price. Atlanta may be interested in moving Ron Hainsey, but he has a limited no-trade and 2 years left with a cap hit $4.5 million. Johnny Oduya may also become available if the Thrashers continue to fall out of it. The Hurricanes aren’t shopping Joni Pitkanen, but teams are calling about him.
- Eric Stephens via twitter: Ducks GM Bob Murray said they hope to have Jonas Hiller cleared for practice tomorrow. Helene Elliott via twitter: Ray Emery was called up by the Ducks today, and is expected to be the backup. Anaheim Ducks via twitter: GM Murray, “We hope to have Jonas by the weekend, but [now] is a good time [for Emery] to come up and work with our coaches and shooters.”
- Kevin Allen via twitter: On waivers today are Nikolai Zherdev, Craig Rivet, Marek Svatos, Ales Kotalik (re-entry) and Jeremy Colliton. Pierre LeBrun via twitter: LeBrun doesn’t think the Blackhawks would be interested in Rivet.
- Adam Jahns of the Chicago Sun-Times: Blackhawks GM Stan Bowman is looking to add a defenseman who can kill penalties, and it would be a bonus if he was physical. “I think some teams are going to try to hold their guys close to the deadline,” Bowman said. “We don’t necessarily want to wait that long. If we find a guy we’re comfortable with, we’ll make it work.”
- Tom Reed of the Columbus Dispatch: Other teams have initiated trade talks with the Blue Jackets about Steve Mason, and those inquiries may be been made when the team was struggling last month.
- Erik Erlendsson via twitter: Dwayne Roloson will start in net for the Lightning against the Coyotes.
Rumored Avalanche-Kings deal … Rangers turning to McCabe … Canadiens after Penner, others … Richards not interested in Leafs
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Rumors on February 21st, 2011
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: The Colorado Avalanche now have 5 centers (Duchene, Stastny, McClement, O’Reilly and Dupuis), with Matt Duchene getting close to returning, he’s expected to practice today. Dater expects one of them to be traded by the deadline, with Duchene likely being the only one that would be on the ‘untouchable’ list. Dater has heard a few rumors regarding Paul Stastny including, “Stastny, TJ Galiardi and maybe a pick/another player to Los Angeles for Jack Johnson, Jonathan Bernier and Jarret Stoll.” Dater adds, “This is a blog, so I am NOT reporting that as a fact, or, again, something I have great confidence in.” Dennis Bernstein via twitter: Berstein can’t see that rumored deal happening. David Pagnotta via twitter: He’s hearing that the Avalanche could be pulling off another big deal, lots of chatter coming from there.
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: Marian Gaborik was forced out of yesterday’s game with a concussion. Coach Tortorella said that Gaborik complained intermittently for a week for not feeling well, but didn’t miss any time. It might change the interest Gaborik was getting leading up to the trade deadline. The Kings were rumored to ask about him. As to the extent of his concussion, it’s not known yet.
- Mark Spector via twitter: The Rangers have turned their attention to Bryan McCabe after one last discussion about putting a claim in for Sheldon Souray.
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: Indications are that the Blue Jackets won’t be putting a waiver claim on Sheldon Souray. Darren Dreger via twitter: One team that was interested in Souray, no longer is.
- David Pagnotta via twitter: The Canadiens are pushing for Dustin Penner and others, Alex Kovalev could be a last resort.
- Marc Antonie Godin via twitter: The Canadiens were making a play for Chris Stewart before he was traded to the Blues.
- Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun: Brad Richards supposedly told a Tampa source that his first choice is to remain with the Stars. His other choices would be to return to the Lightning or to the Rangers, and hinted he may have some interest in Carolina. “When asked about Toronto, he apparently said nothing but shook his head.”
- Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: Rossi has heard from an agent and Penguins source that the asking price for Ales Hemsky is “huge.” “At least first round pick and a player off the NHL roster, probably more.”
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: (Q & A) Heika doesn’t think the Stars were in on any Tomas Kaberle talks as the Lenders may not want to add more than a $1 million in salary to this year’s payroll. He’s being to think the Stars won’t do much at the trade deadline. Heika thinks that Stars GM Joe Nieuwendyk has to listen to all offers for Brad Richards. If Richards waived his no trade clause “it would be because Joe asked him to.” If he reaches free agency, Richards would likely chose the team he felt he had the best chance to win the cup.
- Mark Spector via twitter: Spector notes the Flyers are still not sold on their goaltending.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: If Sharks defenseman Marc-Eduoard Vlasic’s upper-body injury is serious, they could be looking to add another defenseman. They are not saying much on Antero Niittymaki, so they may need a backup goalie. With Stars forward Jamie Benn still out with a shoulder injury, it lessens the chances of James Neal being dealt for an offensive defenseman.
- Terry Koshan of the Toronto Sun: Leafs GM Brian Burke has cleared more cap space, and is looking to add a defenseman before the deadline.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Matheson’s top 10 list of players that could be traded: 1. Brad Richards 2. Ales Hemsky 3. Bryan McCabe 4. Chris Phillips 5. Dustin Penner 6. Nikolai Zherdev 7. Jan Hejda 8. Marty Reasoner 9. Jason Arnott 10. Tomas Vokoun. “Wild Cards” to be traded: 1. Zach Bogosian, 2. Ladislav Smid, Steve Montador, 3. Dan Carcillo, 4. Wayne Simmonds, 5. Michael Ryder, 6. Brent Sopel, 7. Tim Connolly, 8. Stephen Weiss, 9. Alex Kovalev, 10. Jim Vandemeer, 11. Mike Grier and 12. Rostislav Klesla. Players that make too much: 1. J.P. Dumont, 2. Nik Antropov, 3. Kristian Huselius, 4. Michael Ryder and 5. Mike Komisarek.
Moves the Flames didn’t make … Cammalleri has separated shoulder … Hemsky has concussion, Eberle and Horcoff close to returning
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on January 19th, 2011
- Allan Maki of the Globe and Mail: In November the Capitals called the Flames and proposed a Robyn Regehr for Tomas Fleischmann deal. The Flames obviously said no, Fleischmann went to the Avalanche for Scott Hannan, and has recorded 20 points in 21 games. The deal also would have saved the Flames $1.4 million in cap space.
- Vicki Hall of the Calgary Herald: Back in August Clarke MacArthur talked to 3 teams about a contract, the Leafs, Flames and Lightning. The Flames were close to the cap and dealing with uncertainty of Daymond Langkow’s health, but were willing to bury some contract to bring him in. As the Flames debated about their roster, the Maple Leafs moved ahead with a 1 year, $1.1 million offer. MacArthur has 14 goals and 23 assists in 44 games.
- Allan Robinson of the Globe and Mail: Sidney Crosby has missed his 6th game with a concussion and doesn’t know when he’ll be able to begin practicing. He’s still experiencing an occasional headache.
- Dave Stubbs of Habs Inside/Out: Mike Cammalleri was crosschecked awkwardly into the boards and initial reports are that he could be out 2 weeks with a separated shoulder. The Habs also lost Max Pacioretty, who took a shot from James Wisniewski in the mid-section. He was taken to hospital on a stretcher, hooked up to an IV, with reportedly a rib injury.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Oilers winger Ales Hemsky left last night’s game after one shift in the 2nd period with a concussion. Hemsky didn’t sustain a hit last night, but seems to be an accumulation of a puck and elbow to the head, and a stick to the face in the last 6 games or so. Coach Tom Renney added, “He’s had some symptoms before this game and the doctor looked at him and I don’t know what conclusion they’ve drawn.” Renney on Horcoff being close to returning, “Horc wants to play, but I’ve got a protocol. I won’t play anybody who shouldn’t be in there. If he passes my stuff, he’ll play,” said Renney. (I guess his protocol on knee injuries is stricter than his concussion protocol. You’d think by now they’d wouldn’t allow a guy to play if he’s showing any symptoms of a concussion)
- Joanne Ireland of the Edmonton Journal: Jordan Eberle is hoping to return to the Oilers lineup by the end of the month. He’s recovering from a sprained ankle and having appendix removed. Oilers captain Shawn Horcoff is also close to returning , he’s been out since Dec. 7th with a knee injury.
- Elliotte Friedman of CBC Sports: Teams are calling the Penguins about Alex Goligoski, but he’s likely staying. The Penguins have a crowded blueline, but Goligoski has a nice cap hit of $1.833 million and is under contract until after next season. Kings GM Dean Lombardi is looking to make a big deal but hasn’t much luck so far. Jack Johnson did his 7 year, $30 million contract himself, with an agent he may have gotten $3-5 million more. Stephane Da Costa looks to be the top college free agent this year, with one scout saying “everyone” is interested.
- Tom Gulitti of the Bergon Record: NJ Devils defenseman Matt Corrente will be out 2-4 weeks with a shoulder injury that occurred in a fight with Steve Downie.
- Seth Rorabaugh of Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: The Penguins signed Mark Letestu to a 2 year, $1.25 million deal. This signing may ultimately effect Max Talbot’s status this off-season as he’ll be a RFA and could be let go by the team.
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: There is a slight chance that Alex Kovalev returns to the Senators lineup on Thursday against the Flyers.
No progress on Stamkos talks … Frolov done for the season … Commodore to AHL … Armstrong questionable for tonight
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on January 10th, 2011
- Erik Erlendsson of the Tampa Tribune: There has been no progress since the end of November on contract extension talks with Steven Stamkos and the Tampa Bay Lightning. GM Steve Yzerman has said they had sent Stamkos’s side an initial proposal, but haven’t heard back about it. “It’s our intention to get him signed,” Yzerman said. “In our initial meetings with Newport (Guy’s agency), they said Steven is very happy in Tampa and wants to stay here and get a deal done, so we’ll do everything we can.” Speculation is starting if deal could be for $7+ million a season.
- Erik Duhatschek of the Globe and Mail: Colby Armstrong is still wearing a patch over his eye after taking a sucker punch from Ben Eager (received a 4 game suspension), Armstrong’s eye was scratched. There is a chance he’ll be ready to play tonight, he’ll be have more medical tests today. JS Giguere and Mike Brown practiced yesterday and both could be ready for Thursday versus the Coyotes.
- Jesse Spector of the NY Daily News: The New York Rangers have lost Alexander Frolov for the remainder of the season after he tore his ACL and meniscus and sprained MCL, and will require surgery. Frolov got tangled up with Brad Winchester of the Blues. Kris Newbury was recalled by the team.
- Tom Reed of the Columbus Dispatch: Mike Commodore has been assigned to Springfield of the AHL, if he plays for them or another AHL team is still in question. The Blue Jackets have recalled Grant Clitsome to take his roster spot.
- Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe: Bruins defenseman Mark Stuart has been put on the IR, and Matt Bartkowski was recalled. Adam McQuaid has a “unspecified injury or illness” and may not be able to go, Bartkowski could fill in.
- Jeff Gordon of the St. Louis Post Dispatch: Cory Clouston could be the next coach to be fired and the Senators might be eying Dave Cameron (Canadian World Junior coach) as his placement. Senators GM Bryan Murray could also be on the hotseat with TSN analyst Pierre McGuire as a possible replacement. Blues defenseman Erik Johnson could use Jack Johnson’s 7 year, $30.5 million as motivation for his next contract. Robin Lehner could see some time in the Senators net as Brian Elliot struggles and Pascal Leclaire is still hurt.
- Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: Mainly formed due to the illness of Malkin and Kennedy at practiced yesterday, Matt Cooke, Jordan Staal and Tyler Kennedy were back together, and could see game action together.
Bruins could be fit for Phillips … Kings re-sign Johnson, Doughty update … Injury notes on Semin, Backstrom, DiPietro and more
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on January 9th, 2011
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: If the Senators decide to trade Chris Phillips, the Bruins could be a good landing spot for him.
- Rich Hammond of LAKingsInsider: The LA Kings have locked up defenseman Jack Johnson to a 7 year, $30.5 million deal. He has a cap hit of about $4.35 million, he’ll earn $3.5 million for the first 3 seasons, $5 million the final 4. GM Lombardi gives and update on Drew Doughty, who’ll be an RFA at the end of the year,
“We’ve had very kick-the-tire discussions on Drew. Part of it was gauging where his play was. Again, Drew is two or three years younger than Jack, so there is a greater period there of growth. We can let it play out a little. We’re obviously going to sign him, and term is not an issue. Now that Jack is in, it gives us a little reference point. Like I said, we have some flexibility in terms of term, and we’ll start pecking away at that. But it’s hard to do three or four (players) at once, because you get confused as to what the mission is. Jack was committed for seven or eight years, and never wavered from that. It was, `OK, let’s get this done, put it in the bank and go do the other one [Doughty].’ So we’ve got one long-term deal in, and if we have to do the other one short-term, we’ve still got the free-agent rights and we can try again later. But it’s nice to have one in the bank.”
- Katie Carrera of the Washington Post: Alexander Semin had a collision with Steve Bernier in the 2nd period last night, he did not return for the 3rd, and is listed as day-to-day.
- Mike Chambers of the Denver Post: Avs defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk was spotted limping after the game and went for X-rays, results should be known sometime today.
- Katie Strang via twitter: Rick DiPietro missed practiced yesterday and his heading back to New York to have his groin strain evaluated.
- Michael Russo of the Star-Tribune: Wild goalie Niklas Backstrom will be shut down for a few days with left hip injury. He had surgery on the hip back in 2008-09. Marek Zidlicky will try to rehab his shoulder rather than having surgery. He hopes to be back in 4 to 6 weeks. GM Fletcher isn’t in the market for a replacement right handed Dman.
- The Globe and Mail: Chris Osgood will have his groin injury checked out by a specialist sometime this week, and it might require surgery. The Red Wings will call up Joey MacDonald.
- Don Brennan of the Ottawa Sun: Pascal Leclaire will not face shots for at least another week with a lower-body injury. Clouston said “It has to do with lower body and back and hips and groin area … it’s not just a pulled groin. I’m not a doctor but … it’s more complicated than that.” When asked if Leclaire could be lost of the season, “I’m not going to say that, I don’t think it’s to that extent,” … “I’m also going to not say it’s not.”
- Darren Dreger via twitter: Ben Eager got a 4 game suspension for his sucker punch on Colby Armstrong.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Tom Kostopoulus waived his right for an in-person meeting with the NHL regarding his hit on Brad Stuart, which might mean at least a 5 game suspension.
- Rich Chere via twitter: The Devils won’t announce a new captain yet, they’ll go with 2 assistants for now.
- Allan Walsh via twitter: Miro Satan signed a deal with the KHL for the remainder of the season.
Are the Kings interested in Gagne and others? Modano has 4 options … Not much going on for Frolov
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on July 6th, 2010
Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: One report is saying the Los Angeles Kings are out of the running for Simon Gagne, and another says they are still interested. Things were quiet involving Tomas Kaberle over the weekend, but should pick up this week.
Helene Elliott of the LA Times: Elliott wonders how the Kings can become more attractive to free agents. Drew Doughty, Jack Johnson and Wayne Simmonds will be free agents soon, and will they want to re-sign with a team that can’t draw top free agents? The Kings may have to go the trade route to fill some holes in their roster. If the Devils sign Kovalchuk, they’ll have to clear out some salary. Brian Rolston could be available, but he’s 37 and has a $5.062 cap hit. Tomas Kaberle is an option but the Leafs probably want prospects and picks (nope … they’d like a top 6 forward, maybe a Wayne Simmonds or Dustin Brown). The Kings like Simon Gagne, and the Flames may deal Robyn Regehr. Marc Savard could fit but the Kings may not be on the 5 team list Savard has.
Pierre LeBrun via Twitter: Alexander Frolov hasn’t received much interest, other than the Rangers doing some brief tire kicking.
Jeremy Rutherford via Twitter: A “good-faith” move by Jaroslav Halak by not filing for salary arbitration.
Dmitry Chesnokov via Twitter: Evgeni Nabokov couldn’t agree on a contract with SKA St. Petersburgh.
Ansar Khan of MLive: The Detroit Red Wings are close to signing 3 of their restricted free agents to 1 year contracts: Patrick Eaves, Drew Miller and Derek Meech. GM Ken Holland isn’t close to signing Justin Abdelkader and Darren Helm, both could get long-term deals later on in the summer though.
John Shannon via Twitter: The Detroit Red Wings and 3 other teams are interested in Mike Modano.
David Haugh of the Chicago Tribune: Mike Modano hasn’t heard from the Chicago Blackhawks, but they could be an option for him as they are looking for some 3rd/4th line depth (cost friendly depth). “I’d like to see what kind of wiggle room they have left under the salary cap, if they can fill that third- or fourth-line void and see how I would fit in with those guys,” said Modano. “They have a great nucleus of kids. So there is a lot of interest there. Obviously, coming off the type of year they’ve had there’s a lot of excitement for anybody who has Chicago on their list of options.”
Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe: Blake Wheeler filed for arbitration yesterday, but Wheeler’s agent plans on working hard to get a deal done. They haven’t had much discussion with GM Peter Chiarelli as he’s been busy with the draft and free agency. Mark Stuart didn’t file for arbitration as he and Bruins are close to a 1-year extension. Boston re-signed both Nathan McIver and Nolan Schaefer.
Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Anaheim Ducks defenseman James Wisniewski filed for salary arbitration yesterday, but after the meeting his agent and GM Bob Murray last week, they appear to be on the “same page”. More discussions should take place before their arbitration meeting which would be between July 20th and August 5th.
Will offer sheets start to come? Rumors surrounding Kovalchuk
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on July 5th, 2010
- Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe: With the lack of depth in the NHL Free Agent market, teams may send out an offer sheets to improve their club. Some possible restricted free agents are Bobby Ryan, Marc Staal, Steve Downie, Sam Gagne, and David Perron. The Boston Bruins are now able to negotiate contract extensions for Zdeno Chara and Patrice Bergeron, both are entering the last year of their contract. Chara is making $7.5 million and would probably be looking for something similar. The Bruins could offer him a front loaded deal to bring down the cap number. Bergeron has a cap number of $4.7 million, and probably would get a deal with a similar number.
- Helene Elliot of the LA Times: The LA Kings could still use a productive winger, and an experienced top 4 defenseman, but with not much remaining in the free agent group, the Kings could turn to trades or possibly an offer sheet.
- Mark Everson of the NY Post: Devils GM Lou Lamoriello continues to pursue Ilya Kovalchuk. Kovalchuk would probably reject any offer below $8 million, and Kings may not have wanted to go over that number. The Devils may not want to go over $8 million as well. The Isles could be offering $10 million for 10 years.
- Tom Gulitti of NorthJersey.com: A report out of Russia said that the Flyers offered Kovalchuk a deal, his Russian agent denied the report that he said that.
- Elliotte Friedman via Twitter: The Kings made their biggest offer to Kovalchuk without jeopardizing Drew Doughty and Jack Johnson extensions.
- Larry Brooks via Twitter: “Kings rule out Kovalchuk. In other news, Yanks refuse to sign A-Rod after he opts out. Oh. Wait.”
- Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: The Penguins are thinking about shifting Jordan Staal or Evgeni Malkin over to the wing. The Pens would then need to add a 3rd line center. Potential candidates could be: Rob Niedermayer, Dominic Moore, Jeff Halpern, John Madden, and Ryan Johnson.
- Ryan Rishaug via Twitter: Oilers have inquired about Rob Niedermayer, he’d consider them if offered a contract.
- Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: The Detroit Red Wings are in the market for an inexpensive defenseman to play along side Jonathan Ericsson.
Kings may look at Kovalchuk, Martin, and Hamhuis … Saku to Minny? Colaiacovo and Weaver may be done in St. Louis
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on June 30th, 2010
- Helene Elliott of the LA Times: The LA Kings are still the front runners to land Ilya Kovalchuk. The Kings may also look at signing Paul Martin and Dan Hamhuis, if they are available. They will have to keep in mind that Drew Doughty, Jack Johnson and Wayne Simmons will be RFA next season, so they can’t let their salaries get out a whack.
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: The Rangers are close re-signing tough guy Jody Shelley, possibly to a 2 year deal worth around $850,000 a season. Erik Christensen rejected a 2 year deal for about $1.5 million, and will become a UFA.
- Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: The St. Louis Blues have been talking with defenseman Carlo Colaiacovo and Mike Weaver, but all sides don’t appear to be close and they will probably hit the open market.
- Ben Kuzma of the Vancouver Province: Despite acquiring Keith Ballard at the draft, the Vancouver Canucks are still on the lookout for defenseman. The Canucks had a terrible time last season with injuries to the blueline, so they’ll be looking for inexpensive, non-injury prone Dmen. Kevin Bieksa is a $3.75 million cap hit, is projected as their 5th defenseman, and could be moved for a ‘battle-tested forward’.
- Michael Russo of the Star-Tribune: If Saku Koivu wants to join his brother Mikko in Minnesota, it’s probably his choice. Last season the Wild offered Saku a 2-year deal worth $8 million and 3-year for $10 million, instead he took 1-year at $3.25 million. He turned down the offer because “I wanted him to have his own privacy … and make his own name and career”. The Wild could use another centerman and may talk Saku again this year.
- Vicki hall of the Calgary Herald: Though Ales Kotalik was placed on waivers by the Calgary Flames, he may not be bought out, but the team still has the option to do so.
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