Posts Tagged James Neal
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.
Injured Canucks … Giguere could waive no-trade … Stars dangling Neal for Dman? Would Sharks consider Souray? Surgery for Whitney
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on January 17th, 2011
- Jason Botchford of the Vancouver Province: It looks like Canucks defenseman Andrew Alberts could miss some time as the team recalled Chris Tanev from Manitoba.
- Jason Botchford of the Vancouver Province: Canucks 4th line center Alec Bolduc will have an MRI done later this week to determine the extend of his injury, but he’s expected to miss a month. His shoulder popped out on a face-off on Friday, this is his 3rd separation in the last 2 years. They’ll need to recall a forward this week, maybe Sergei Shirokov, Viktor Oreskovich, or possibly Cody Hodgson. If they look at a trade to replace him, Islanders center Zenon Konopka could be of interest.
- Mike Zwolinski of the Toronto Star: JS Giguere has a no-trade clause but has made it known that he could be open to waiving it. Tomas Kaberle, François Beauchemin and Mike Komisarek also have no-trade clauses but haven’t said publicly if they’d be open to waiving it. Trade talks in past weeks have involved Kris Versteeg, Clarke MacArthur and Mikhail Grabovski. Trading Versteeg for prospects seems odd since they gave up prospects to get before the season. MacArthur and Grabovski have been a couple of their best players this year. Kaberle for Blake Wheeler continues to float out there, though the Bruins have 7 Dman locked up for next year.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Jarrko Ruutu knows his days in Ottawa are likely numbered. The Kings, Sharks and Penguins could possibly be interested in him.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Matheson thinks the Penguins should trade Evgeni Malkin and move Jordan Staal up to the #2 center, and proposes a Malkin-Rick Nash trade, though admits will likely never happen. Matheson wonders if the Sharks have considered Sheldon Souray. Flyers are looking for right winger who’ll be a UFA at season end, currently have about $1.9 million in cap room. Some think the Stars will dangle James Neal for an offensive defenseman.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Oilers defenseman Ryan Whitney will be heading to N.C. to see his foot specialist (will be his 3rd procedure there) to repair a dislocated tendon in his right ankle. A time frame may be better known today when it gets examined, but “All we know is it’s going to be a good amount of time,” Tambellini said. “He’s dealt with this surgeon before, so he’s very comfortable with him.”
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Derek Boogaard could be done for the season after suffering a concussion in a fight with Matt Carkner. Don’t look for a Mike Commodore-Brian Rolston deal, Rolston makes too much money for the Blue Jackets. Best Bets for Senators defenseman Chris Phillips are the Capitals and Sharks. If Patrick Eaves keeps up his scoring, Jiri Hudler could find himself an odd man out, would someone take his $2.8 million contract?
- Eric Francis of the Calgary Sun: The Calgary Flames turned down the idea of starting next season in Europe, “We need to focus on what’s important and get ourselves back on track,” said team president and CEO Ken King. Sharks GM Doug Wilson is kicking tires, but “the marketplace is a tough one” as many teams are looking for centers and defenseman. Ilya Bryzgalov’s agent, Don Meehan, is heading to Phoenix today to discuss contract extension with the Coyotes. “We’ve been told that signing Ilya is a priority,” said Meehan.
Gionta Habs new Captain? Neal and Niskanen close with Stars … Redden to AHL?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on September 16th, 2010
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: La Presse is reporting that Brian Gionta will be named as the new Montreal Canadiens captain.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: The Dallas Stars feel they have made solid offers to James Neal and Matt Niskanen, and GM Joe Nieuwendyk thinks they are close. They are trying to Neal on a 2 year deal, and Niskanen on a 1 year deal. The team has an internal budget of $45 million.
- Craig Custance via twitter: Agent Don Meehan expects the Dallas Stars and James Neal to reach a deal by the start of training camp.
- Jeff Marek via twitter: Jordan Staal is likely to miss the start of the season after having an operation to cure the infection in his foot.
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: The New York Rangers may looking into trading for Sheldon Souray. It’s an extreme longshot that Wade Redden makes the club, he’s expected to be put on waivers, removing his $6.5 million cap hit.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Unless Wade Redden has an excellent camp/pre-season, he’ll likely be sent to the AHL, giving the Rangers the cap relief they need.
- Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: Jakub Voracek will be a RFA at seasons end. It is not known if there have been any talks, but Voracek’s side may want to hold off until after the season in hope that he has a big year. Portzline thinks they will get a deal done sooner than later.
- Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe: Marco Sturm is on track to return to the Bruins in mid-November after having surgery on his left knee 6 months ago. Sturm will be put on LTIR and save the club a $3.5 million cap hit, but once he comes back they’ll need to clear space, with Michael Ryder being demoted to the AHL a possibility.
- Mark Everson of the NY Post: Patrick Elias will start the season on left wing according to coach John MacLean. That would make a 3rd line left winger, or MacLean will move one of Ilya Kovalchuk or Zach Parise, who are ahead of him on the LW depth chart.
- Luke DeCock of the Raleigh News & Observer: Majority Carolina Hurricanes owner, Peter Karmanos, is still trying to sell the minority share of the late Thomas Thewes. He’s been trying for 4 months, and there’s still a “for sale” on the club. He has looking for an investor to by the 49% share, but will look at a group of investors.
Afternoon rumor update: Parise, Neal, Staal, Forsberg, Anderson, Souray and Langenbrunner
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on September 14th, 2010
- Rich Chere of the Star-Ledger: Zach Parise will be a RFA at season’s end, but would like to start contract negotiations on an extension. So far there have been no talks (Kovalchuk saga most likely the reason.
“I’m the type of person who likes to know what’s going on,” Parise told [Chere]. “I like to have that comfort and stability.
“But I’m not concerned. I understand the way things have traditionally been done around here. To talk would be kind of out of the norm. Playing out the last year on my contract is not going to affect me in a negative way, I know that. I’ve kind of been through it before. You don’t want to say you need something like that (the final year on a contract) to make you play harder or better, but I think a lot of times it does make you play better.”
- Darren Dreger via twitter: Sounds like there are productive talks between the Dallas Stars and James Neal.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: From Pat Morris, Neal’s agent, “The negotiations with James Neal are getting to a critical stage for both sides. There is always that time for ‘the fork in road’ where a deal can be done or won’t be done for a long period. James hopes to become a contracted member of the Stars once again very soon. Both sides will have to be flexible.”
- Anthony Gross via twitter: Rangers GM Glen Sather, “We have made Staal a pretty lucrative offer, and I don’t think we’re very far apart.”
- Adrian Dater via twitter: Peter Forsberg … “I haven’t closed the door yet, but it’s pretty close.”
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Avalanche goaltender Craig Anderson will be a UFA at seasons end, and the Avs may not want to risk waiting that long, a deal during the season is a possibility.
- Mark Spector via twitter: The Oilers best bet is send Sheldon Souray to their AHL camp in late September.
- Mark Spector via twitter: From an agent on Souray, “There is NO market for Souray. The fact he has two years left ($5.4M hit) is a killer.”
- Tom Gulitti of the Bergon Record: Jamie Langenbrunner realizes that he could be moved by the Devils.
“I would definitely say there is an uneasiness,” captain Jamie Langenbrunner told me. “We’re all smart enough to figure out which guys are uneasy or waiting to see what’s going to happen. There’s probably six or seven of us that fit into the category of making enough money to leave to fit us under the cap and are of a certain age that would be tradable. I think all of us are smart enough in the business of hockey to understand it. It’s a situation that it could be any one of six or seven of us. Probably two of us.
- Ben Kuzma via twitter: Brendan Morrison is talking to 3 teams regarding a contract.
- Tom Reed and Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: Columbus Blue Jackets season tickets sales are down 25%, 10,300 to 7,700.
Ribeiro staying in Dallas … Neal-Stars continue to talk … Bergfors-Thrashers close … Spot on Kings D open for Hickey? Keeping Parise happy
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on September 13th, 2010
- Mark Stepneski of the ESPN Dallas: Dallas Stars GM Joe Nieuwendyk has put center Mike Ribeiro’s mind at ease, telling him that the plan is for him to be in Dallas this season. “I reassured him that I have no intentions of moving him. I think he was worried about it. There was speculation out there that he was going to be moved any day,” Nieuwendyk said. Ribeiro’s name has been mentioned all summer as a player they may give up to acquire a puck moving defenseman.
- Craig Custance of the Sporting News: James Neal and the Dallas Stars continue to talk, but nothing is imminent. Nieuwendyk wants to get a deal done before the start of training camp, but realizes it may not happen.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: LeBrun is hearing the Atlanta Thrashers are close to re-signing RFA Niclas Bergfors. Update 11:05 am: LeBrun via twitter: Confirms that Bergfors signs for 1 year, $900,000.
- Helene Elliott of the the LA Times: With the departures of Sean O’Donnell and Randy Jones, and the injury to Matt Greene, 2007 4th overall pick Tomas Hickey might be ready to make the jump to the big club. Last season Hickey was limited to 23 regular season and playoff games due to shoulder and ankle injuries. “Going forward I want to make this team and that’s the only thing on my mind,” he said Sunday. His hockey IQ makes up for his lack of size. 2008 13th overall pick, Colten Teubert is still recovering from wrist surgery and won’t visit the doctors until early October.
- Tom Gulitti of the Bergon Record: Zach Parise will be an RFA after this season, and an UFA the year after. Parise wants to win, and if Kovalchuk’s re-signing helps that, it will help in his re-signing. “But if any of the repercussions of re-signing Kovalchuk – delaying starting negotiations, cap trouble, the impact on the roster, etc. – leads directly or indirectly to Parise leaving in two years, it will be it difficult to say this Summer of Kovy was worth it.”
- Mark Everson of the NY Post: The New Jersey Devils have until October 6th to shed at least $3-3.5 million to get under the cap, and will be looking at their prospects closely to fill the roster spot(s), paying close attention to the likes of Jacob Josefson, Mattias Tedenby, Alexander Urbom, Tyler Eckford, Matt Corrente, Adam Henrique, Nick Palmeri and Vladimir Zharkov.
RFAs still looking to finalize contracts … Regehr admits he’s been shopped … Some UFAs hope to get deals soon
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on September 9th, 2010
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: The Dallas Stars had talks with the agents for James Neal and Matt Niskanen on Tuesday. The team hopes to have them signed before the start of camp.
- Craig Custance of the Sporting News: Washington Capitals coach Bruce Boudreau expects Tomas Fleischmann to have a breakout season with the team. “Oh yeah. Those trade rumors, I think you can faithfully put all of them to bed,” Boudreau told Sporting News. “We laugh at so many of them that have no substance. I don’t know who makes them up. Some people have very vivid imaginations.”
- Jesse Spector of the NY Daily News: There has been lots of ‘chatter’ between the Rangers and Marc Staal side, but there’s no word on a forthcoming deal.
- Helene Elliott via twitter: No deal between the Anaheim Ducks and Bobby Ryan yet, continuing to talk.
- Eric Francis of the Calgary Sun: Calgary Flames defenseman Robyn Regehr has been linked to trade rumors this summer, and didn’t deny it. “Have I been approached about (a trade)?” repeated Regehr yesterday during a suddenly awkward exchange. “Ahhhhh, I can’t really … I’m not going to get into that. “It’s part of sports. That’s the way it is.” The Flames are over the salary cap, and Regehr’s $4 million salary (3 more years) could be one salary they might move out.
- Tom Gulitti of the Bergon Record: Mike Mottau’s agent thinks the UFA will have a contract by the start of training camp. They don’t have any offers they are considering, but have been in touch with teams over the summer. It’s still possible that Mottau could return to the Devils, once they clear out a bunch of cap space. Jay Pandolfo is still looking for a contract, and has talked to a few teams according to his agent.
- Fan 590 Audio: Brian Burke talks with Bob McCown on Prime Time Sports about the Kovalchuk contract and the Michael Liambas rookie camp invite.
- Stephen Harris of the Boston Herald: The Boston Bruins have an agreement with JYP Jyvaskyla of the Finnish Elite League, in which the teams an loan players to each other. Will the Bruins bury a contact in Europe to reduce their cap number?
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Bill Guerin is still skating with some Flyers, and is still hopeful something can be worked out with the team.
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Marcus Nilson has reportedly been invited to the New Jersey Devils training camp.
- Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: The Detroit Red Wings have placed defenseman Derek Meech on waivers. The 26-year old Meech has played 126 games in the last 4 years.
- Sherri Zickefoose of the Calgary Herald: Former NHLer Jason Smith has been arrested for domestic assault. Smith is being charged with two counts of assault and one count of unlawful confinement against his wife and teenaged daughter.
Staal’s return delayed … Ducks looking for D depth … Bergfors-Thrashers not close … Pens not talking to Kariya or Svatos
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on August 27th, 2010
- Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: Penguins center Jordan Staal has “experienced a couple of setbacks” from the torn tendon is his foot. They will take it easy with him and there is no need for concern if he misses a couple days or weeks.
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: The Anaheim Ducks are looking to add some ‘low cost depth options’ on the point, but it’s possible they enter camp with what they have. The Ducks have considered trading for Kevin Bieksa, but the Canucks aren’t in a rush to move him any more.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: Jiri Lehtinen isn’t ready to make a decision yet if he’ll return to the Stars or retire. Mike Ribeiro’s no-trade clause stipulates that he can name 10 that he doesn’t want to be traded to (that doesn’t sound like much of a ‘no-trade’ clause to me if you name teams you don’t want to be traded to). The Stars want to sign RFA James Neal to a 2 year deal, Neal is fine with a 1 or 2 year deal.
- Dave Stubbs of Habs Inside/Out: The Canadiens have yet to talk to Andre Markov about a contract extension. Markov is a UFA after the season, GM Pierre Gauthier told Markov’s agent “(Gauthier) wants to wait until the right time”.
- Eric Engels via twitter: Engels thinks the Canadiens would be foolish if they weren’t interested in Bill Guerin.
- Chris Vivlamore via twitter: The Atlanta Thrashers could use Dustin Byfuglien on the point next season.
- Chris Vivlamore via twitter: Thrashers GM Rick Dudley says that they remain ways apart with RFA Niclas Bergfors, not close on “value of player.”
- Will DePaoli via twitter: No truth to the Penguins talking/negotiating with Paul Kariya according to his agent.
- The Hockey Writers: Marek Svatos’ agent Richard Evans, “Marek would certainly be able to provide offence for a team like Pittsburgh,” Evans told THW Tuesday. “Pittsburgh is a team that Marek would be very interested in joining…on paper it looks like a good fit — but ultimately that is up to Ray [Shero].”
- Will DePaoli via twitter: The Penguins haven’t contacted Marek Svatos, but ….
Tikhonov, did he or didn’t he request trade … Blues call Sweatt … Likely rule changes could be ….
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on August 19th, 2010
Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Phoenix Coyotes forward Viktor Tikhonov has requested a trade according to his father, and 15 teams are interested.
Scott Burnside via twitter: Coyotes GM Don Malony says there is no truth to Tikhonov requesting a trade.
Andy Strickland via twitter: St. Louis Blues GM Doug Armstrong spoke with Bill Sweatt in effort to bring the free agent forward to St. Louis.
The Hockey News via twitter: An NHL executive said the rule changes that are the likeliest to be approved are: 1. Modified icing 2. Shallower nets 3. 3-3 OT and 4. No line change on offsides.
Lyle ‘Spector’ Richardson of FoxSports: The length of contracts wanted by teams and remaining restricted free agents is making it harder for them to come to terms. Bobby Ryan is looking for 3 years, Ducks want 5. The Stars are offering 2 years to James Neal, he’d like a longer deal (and probably more money than the $2.5 a season they were offering). Carey Price is after 2 years, the Canadiens offered 5.
NHL STILL investigating contracts … Panthers intereted in Niemi? Wellwood and Morrison still looking for contracts … Kaberle’s dad has some things to say
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on August 19th, 2010
- Dan Rosen of NHL.com: Deputy Commission Bill Daly confirmed they are still investigating the contracts of Chris Pronger, Marcel Hossa, Roberto Luongo and Marc Savard.
“If there was a determination that there was circumvention there are a whole host of alternatives in terms of how we approach it and a whole host of remedies in terms of what can be ordered,” Daly told NHL.com. “De-registration of the contract is one potential remedy, but it’s not the only one. I don’t want to get into hypotheticals. The investigations aren’t complete, and we haven’t made any determinations as to how we proceed with respect to those.”
- Dan Rosen via twitter: Florida Panthers GM Dale Tallon on Antti Niemi, “Do I have interest in him? We have any player with his history, that is a champion. We’re open for business 24-7.”
- Chris Johnston via twitter: Stars GM Joe Nieuwendyk has said he’s confident that he’ll be able to sign RFA James Neal soon.
- George Malik of MLive: Andreas Lilja is considering playing next season in the Swedish League, but he’s in discussion with a couple NHL teams.
- Brad Ziemer of the Vancouver Sun: Kyle Wellwood is getting little interest. Wellwood’s fate with the Canucks was sealed when they signed Manny Malhotra. He remains confident that he’ll be in the NHL, but hasn’t ruled out Europe. Brendan Morrison is also looking for an NHL contract, but Europe is not an option.
- Pension Plan Puppets: Offers a translation of Tomas Kaberle’s dad from a Czech website. “I think that during the course of the year he will be traded to another club. There is just only one chance for Toronto, how to get something back in return for Tomas. In my opinion, I can’t see Tomas entering a new contract with the club. No, not if Ron Wilson will continue to be employed in the future,” says Kaberle senior.
No truth to Kaberle, Rosehill for Brown … Another Forsberg comeback? Donovan, Pisani looking for a deal
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on August 13th, 2010
- There was a rumor floating around the internet last night that the Toronto Maple Leafs have traded Tomas Kaberle and Jay Rosehill to the Los Angeles Kings for Dustin Brown. The report was tied to Rich Hammond of LA Kings Insider but he had nothing to do it. All of it was false. Spector’s Hockey via twitter sums it up the best: “So, to sum up, folks: No truth to rumor the Leafs were about to trade Kaberle to the Kings for Dustin Brown. Total BS.” Daniel Tolensky (of TSN) via twitter: ”Does anyone really think Kings will trade their 25-year old Captain who scored 81 G over 3 yrs & has 4 yrs left @ $3.175 mil for Kaberle?”. Tolensky tweets that a top-6 forward for Kaberle would be bad contract (Malone)/project (Stafford)/prospect (Moller) and a pick, either a 1st or 2nd. Tolensky also thinks that Drew Stafford and a pick could be fair option for Kaberle.
- Jimmy Murphy via twitter: Murphy can see Kaberle going to Boston, and Marc Savard going to Ottawa. (A 3-team, inter-division trade, unheard of. I don’t know what Toronto would get/want from Ottawa’s roster.)
- Kevin Allen via twitter: There’s a Swedish media report that Peter Forsberg is thinking about returning to the NHL.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: Answering some questions from a reader. The Stars have 20 players under contract for next season at $40.6 million, and they should be able to get James Neal, Nicklas Grossman, and Matt Niskanen under contract, under their internal cap ceiling. The Stars will probably hold tough on their offers. Heika thinks the Stars could be offering Neal a 2 year deal for $5 million, Grossman at around $2 million per season for 3-4 years, and Niskanen a 1-year deal for around $1 million.
- George Malik of MLive: Andreas Lilja finds it “tough” and “a little frustrating” being without an NHL contract for season. The frustration comes from the family side of things and not on the professional side, finding a home, enrolling kids in school. Lilja’s theory as to why there are still so many free agents out there, “They want to drive down salaries. At the same time, I believe that there are many teams that want to attract younger players and give them a chance to play”
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Shean Donovan is hoping to get one more shot at the NHL. He’s 49 games short of 1,000. He’s talked to a couple teams, not no solid offers yet. He has 2 offers in Europe but will wait it out for a bit.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: The 33-year Fernando Pisani is still hoping to play in the NHL next season, on a 1-way contract. He’s unsure if he’d take a 2-way deal or a training camp invite.
Setoguchi getting a 1 year deal … Caps interested in Niemi? Stars and Neal waiting it out
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on July 30th, 2010
- Craig Custance of the Sporting News: The San Jose Sharks and Devin Setoguchi could be closing in on a 1-year deal, which could be done in the next week. They are also starting talks with Joe Thornton on an extension.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: The Dallas Stars and James Neal still haven’t been able to reach an agreement, both are playing the waiting game. The Stars could be looking for a 2 year deal in the $2.5 million range, with Neal wanting more. Possible comparables in Tomas Fleishmann and Mason Raymond signed in that range. Other RFA that could be used as comparables are Bobby Ryan, Devin Setoguchi, Chris Stewart and Patric Hornqvist.
- James Mirtle via twitter: Reading between the lines to Blackhawks GM Stan Bowman comments, other teams may be looking into Antti Niemi’s availability.
- NHL Sources Say via twitter: If the Blackhawks don’t like Antti Niemi’s ruling and he becomes available, the Capitals could be interested.
- Damian Cristodero of the St. Petersberg Times: The Tampa Bay Lightning have 7 defenseman under contract, and GM Steve Yzerman could be looking for 1 more. Yzerman would like to bring Paul Ranger back, but Ranger is not ready to make a decision at this time. Ranger missed most of last season due to personal reasons.
- Craig Custance via twitter: The Atlanta Thrashers still have some interest in bringing Maxim Afinogenov back, though negotiations may not be that active.
Rumors involving the Toronto Maple Leafs for July 30th
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on July 30th, 2010
- Michael Traikos of the National Post: Six teams are reportedly still interested in Tomas Kaberle, so it looks good that Burke’s biggest asset will be moved by Aug. 15th. After the 16th Burke loses some control as the no-trade kicks back in. Kaberle could veto all deals during the season and leave a free agent, with the Leafs getting nothing in return (see Mats Sundin). This could be why Burke isn’t getting the home-run offer he’s seeking. “We’re not asking for anything,” Burke said. “We’re fielding offers. We’re either going to get an offer that makes sense for Tomas Kaberle or we’re going to keep him.” According to a Post source, the Leafs have already rejected a deal involving a top 6 forward and a draft pick. The Devils, Kings and Ducks could be waiting for the Kovalchuk saga to end before they make a move. Burke says “It’s clogging the waters,” referring to the Kovalchuk situation.
- Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun: The countdown has begun for Tomas Kaberle’s August 15th trade cut-off date. Burke hopes the Kovalchuk situation gets cleared up quickly so some teams can turn their focus on Kaberle (NJ and LA could be involved regarding both players. Rumors to the Kings, who just lost defenseman Matt Green for 3 months, will heat up, he’ll only miss about 3 weeks of the regular season though). If the Leafs don’t get their top-6 forward from a Kaberle deal, they could go back to Marc Savard if the price comes down a bit.
- NHL Sources Say via twitter: The Maple Leafs could be interested in James Neal of the Dallas Stars, but would have to take some salary back, Mike Ribeiro could be that guy.
- Michael Russo via twitter: Rumor that the Minnesota Wild are interested in Tomas Kaberle are NOT true.
- Dave Fuller of the Toronto Sun: Scratch Columbus off the list of possible destinations for Tomas Kaberle after they avoided arbitration the other day with Anton Stralman. Now this may be true, but this team needs to make the playoffs, and an upgrade to their defense would be a step in the right direction, especially a power play quarterback.
Options for ‘Hawks if Niemi isn’t back … Stars would match most offer sheets for Neal
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on July 23rd, 2010
Jesse Rogers of ESPNChicago: There hasn’t been much progress between the Chicago Blackhawks and Antti Niemi. Niemi’s arbitration date is set for July 29th (arbitration dates for all players). They could still trade him before the arbitration date, walk away from the ruling if they don’t like it, or possibly trade him after they accept the 1-year deal.
Jesse Rogers of ESPNChicago: Blackhawk options if they lose Niemi: Corey Crawford could be the “best and most likely option.” Some organizational members liked him better than Niemi, and he makes $800,000. Marty Turco has already turned down $2 million a season from Philly, so he might be too expensive for Chicago. A lower salary for a chance to win the cup could sway him. Turco is talking with a couple teams, and has turned down more than Philly. Jose Theodore had a great record but a bad GAA last year, his career is on the tail end, and he’d have to take a big cut from his $4.5 salary (which he’d have to do anyways if he wants to stay in the NHL). Vesa Toskala (not if they want a shot at winning the cup next year) has a winning record every season except for last year. Would have to take a pay cut from $4 million. Has options in Europe if no one in the NHL wants him. Ray Emery could be cheap option, but he’s coming off hip surgery.
Helene Elliott via twitter: Ducks GM Bob Murray and Teemu Selanne have talked this week, and plan to speak again next week, no decision yet on if he’ll return or retire.
Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: The Dallas Stars would match reasonable offer sheets for James Neal, if he were to sign one. If the deal was front loaded, it might be difficult, but they would probably find a way to do it. If the offer was for over $4.638 million, they might consider taking the 2011 1st, 2nd, and 3rd round picks (compensation for signing RFA’s). If RFA’s are not signed by Dec. 1st, they are ineligible for the remainder of the season.
Damian Cristodero of the St. Petersberg Times: The Tampa Bay Lightning have shown mild interest in Aaron Asham. Asham could bring some toughness.
Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Colorado have been checking out Andrew Cogliano’s availability.
Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Dmitry thinks that Alexander Radulov could be back in the NHL next year (2011-12).
Aaron Portzline via twitter: Nikita Filatov and Blue Jackets coach Scott Arniel will speak in the next couple days. Arniel says “I’m going to let him do most of the talking, but I’ll have something to say at the end of the conversation.“
The Guy who won’t sign … Elias hoping for Kaberle … Neal and Stars not close
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on July 14th, 2010
- Helene Elliott of the LA Times: Ilya Kovalchuk left Los Angeles Tuesday afternoon, his agent stayed to have more talks with GM Dean Lombardi, but left last night without a deal in place. There were rumors that the talks were off yesterday, but also rumors that things were progressing. The Kings wouldn’t say anything. I can’t wait for all this to be over, I’m getting tired of reading/writing about it, sign for $8 million and be done with it.
- Chuck Gormley of the Courier Post: With the re-signing of Daniel Carcillo yesterday, and with the Darrol Powe still remaining, the Flyers could be about $2.75 million over the cap. Simon Gagne is most likely on his way out according to reports, the LA Kings, Maple Leafs and Rangers showing interest.
- Rich Chere of the Star-Ledger: Patrick Elias throws out his 2-cents saying the Devils should trade for Tomas Kaberle. He also thinks that Petr Sykora should get a tryout with the team. He hasn’t heard from Kovalchuk, and doesn’t know his intentions.
- Pierre LeBrun via Twitter: Maple Leafs still listening to offers for Tomas Kaberle according to source in the front office.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: Heika believes the Stars have offered James Neal a 2 year deal worth $2.5 million a season, but Neal wants more money and a longer term. He isn’t sure what the Stars want to sign Nicklas Grossman for. They’d probably like to keep Matt Niskanen at his $900,000 qualifying offer. Heika doesn’t think any will get an offer sheet, and they could let Neal sit out part of training if they have to as they have plenty of left wingers.
- Pierre LeBrun via Twitter: Nothing new regarding Marc Savard.
- Kevin Paul Dupont of the Boston Globe: Blake Wheeler’s arbitration hearing is set for July 27th, but both sides would like to avoid it. They are expected to go to arbitration with recently acquired Gregory Campbell on the 22nd.
- Tarik El-Bashir via Twitter: The Capitals and Tomas Fleischmann are “talking” according to GM George McPhee, but didn’t sound like anything was imminent.
- Aaron Portzline via Twitter: Blue Jackets GM Scott Howson hasn’t had any contract extension talks with the Steve Mason or Jakub Voracek, but hasn’t ruled it out for later in the summer.
Kovalchuk in LA to meet with the Kings … Gagne: has he or hasn’t he? Offer sheet for Neal next?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on July 12th, 2010
- Helene Elliott of the LA Times: Ilya Kovalchuk will be meeting with executives of the Los Angeles Kings today. Twice the Kings have said they are finished negotiating with Kovalchuk, after his agent Jay Grossman, stood pat on a 10 year, $100 million contract. Despite Sportsnet’s Darren Millard saying on twitter that “Kovy-gate comes 2 an end tomorrow. Kings win the process”, Kings GM Dean Lombardi says the two sides aren’t close. The Kings have reportedly offered 12 years and $63 million, and 13 years and $84.5 million ($6.5 million cap hit). Grossman is trying to negotiate a low salary and a high signing bonus for the 2012-13 season, the current CBA expires after the 2011-12 season.
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN:
“Ilya is coming out to LA,” Kings GM Dean Lombardi told ESPN.com Sunday night. “We’re going to meet face to face. But reports that we are announcing his signing tomorrow are utterly and completely false. We have no deal. We’re not even close. I mean, who knows, maybe we’ll get close tomorrow but we have no deal right now.”
Kovalchuk has received offers from the Kings, Devils and KHL. Late last week, several other teams proposed 1 and/or 2 year deals, but Kovalchuk is looking for a long term deal that would extend well past the end of the current CBA.
- David Pagnotta via Twitter: Simon Gagne told the RDS (French TSN) that he didn’t waive his no trade clause, the Philadelphia Flyers say he did.
- Brandon George of the Dallas Morning News: After the Sharks signed Niklas Hjarlmarsson to an offer sheet last week, the Dallas Stars may be wondering if James Neal could be next. Neal was their 3rd leading scorer (55 points) last season, the Stars are working on a tight budget.
- Stu Cowan of the Montreal Gazette: Questions still linger after Halak was traded. Should it have been Price who was moved? Why was he dealt before the draft? Some teams who would have been interested, didn’t even receive a call. Cowan thinks that the deal has Bob Gainey’s fingerprints on it, even though Pierre Gauthier made the deal.
Horton on the move before the draft? Stars need a pucking moving defenseman … To get Chiarelli’s attention, Oilers could ….
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on June 21st, 2010
DJ Been of WEEI: There were reports that this weekend that the Bruins were close to trading for Nathan Horton, but it hasn’t happened yet. Several teams may also be close on a deal for him. The Maple Leafs are another possible destination for him.
Bob McKenzie via Twitter: Nathan Horton hasn’t been moved yet, but will be moved, the Bruins are right in it.
Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: If the Oilers wanted to see if they land the top 2 picks, offering Ales Hemsky and Jordan Eberle or Magnus Paajarvi-Svensson might get Chiarelli’s attention. Chicago could be asking for a 2nd round pick to get Kris Versteeg, plus taking Brent Sopel’s $2.2 million contract off their hands. The Sabres could use a defenseman like Sheldon Souray. The Sabres are looking to move Derek Roy, Tim Connolly, and Drew Stafford. The Sabres aren’t that interested in re-signing Henrik Tallinder and Toni Lydman.
Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: The Dallas Stars have a surplus of left handed forwards (no right handed centers, and potentially only 1 right handed forward. The Stars could really use a puck moving defenseman, and could send out one of their top-6 wingers, James Neal, Jamie Benn, Brenden Morrow or Steve Ott.
Craig Custance of the SportingNews: The San Jose Sharks could be looking for a top-tier defenseman with possible targets, Anton Volchenkov, Paul Martin, Sergei Gonchar, and Zbynek Michalek.
Stamkos Almost a Ranger … Stars that Could be on the Block … Ovie has Advice for Filatov … Leafs-Gustavsson talking contract
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on April 5th, 2010
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: Rangers GM Glen Sather said he ‘shook hands’ on a deal with Lightning co-owner Len Barrie last year, that would have sent Steven Stamkos to the Rangers for 2 or 3 of Michael Del Zotto, Evgeny Grachev, Ryan Callahan, Brandon Dubinsky and Dan Girardi. When Barrie took the proposed deal to GM Brian Lawton, Lawton shot it down. Barrie, still wanting to make the deal only needed approval from the other co-owner, Oren Koules. Koules shot it down as well.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: Heika thinks that several Dallas Stars could be moved this off-season. Possible candidates are Mike Ribeiro, Brad Richards, Matt Niskanen, Fabian Brunnstrom, and James Neal. Neal could be moved if they got a huge return. Ribeiro and Richards are tied together, in that if they can`t get Richards to sign an extension (contract expires after next season), they could move him. If they get Richards on an extension, Ribeiro could be expendable.
- Columbus Post-Dispatch: Alex Ovechkin has some advice for Nikita Filatov:
Capitals star Alex Ovechkin, left, thinks that Blue Jackets prospect Nikita Filatov, a fellow Russian, must come back to the NHL from the Continental Hockey League. “If he wants to play in the NHL, he has to see how different players step up and play,” Ovechkin said.
- Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: A reader writes in and asks Molinari if the Penguins can/will re-sign Matt Cooke. If Cooke will re-sign for around the same $1.2 million cap hit, they’ll definitely consider it. If not, they have Dustin Jeffrey that might be ready to step in for that role.
- John Vogl of the Buffalo News: Tomas Vanek (lower body) and Tim Connolly (foot) are still not close to returning to practice. The Sabres must be praying that they’ll be ready for the playoffs.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: The 37-year-old Daniel Alfredsson will play his 1,000th game on Thursday. Alfie is still scoring at a point-a-game pace, and GM Bryan Murray figures he still has another 3 good years left.
- Jeff Gordon of the St. Louis Post Dispatch: Chris Mason steady play this season may earn him a contract extension with the Blues, and bide some time while they decide on who will be their goalie of the future. In their organization they have, Ben Bishop, Joe Fallon, and Jake Allen, but anyone of them may not be the answer they are looking for. Trading for Cory Schneider continues to be an option, but the Canucks may still want David Backes, which won’t happen. Price or Halak is another trade option, but they’d be in competition with several other teams.
- Paul Hunter of the Toronto Star: Preliminary talks between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Jonas Gustavsson have begun, but Gustavsson isn`t paying attention to the financial side until after the season.
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