Posts Tagged Jaromir Jagr
Canucks-Ehrhoff working on deal … Leafs had interest in Laich … Hamrlik gets 1 year offer from Habs … Canes-Cole not close … Penguins notes
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 28th, 2011
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: There has been an offer and counteroffer between the Canucks and Christian Ehrhoff. An Ehrhoff deal would be around Kevin Bieksa and Dan Hamhuis money, a $4.5-4.6 million cap hit. Unlikely that he’d take less than either player. The Red Wings could be waiting if he doesn’t re-sign with the Canucks.
- Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun: Tim Brent will join Fredrik Sjostrom, Darryl Boyce, Joey Crabb and Jay Rosehill as Maple Leafs UFAs. “We have made it clear that Tim would like to remain in Toronto to improve upon last year’s strong season,” Morris said in an e-mail to QMI Agency Monday night. “However, as of this late date, we would expect that Tim will be a free agent on Friday to look at his alternatives.”
- Damien Cox via twitter: The Maple Leafs were one of the teams that were very interested in Brooks Laich.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: KHL president Medvedev says that he will “help” younger players like Varlamov, Shirokov and Filatov come back to the KHL.
- Tom Reed via twitter: Blue Jackets GM Scott Howson made several inquiries at the draft about defenseman, but couldn’t get anything done.
- JF Chaumont via twitter: Defenseman Roman Hamrlik has received a 1 year contract offer from the Canadiens.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: It’s not sounding like the Hurricanes and Erik Cole are close on a deal, things can change quickly though.
- Josh Yohe and Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune Review: Even though Tyler Kennedy wasn’t qualified yesterday, GM Shero wants to re-sign him by Friday. Shero also hopes to sign Jagr by then. The Pens may also be interested in re-signing Mike Rupp.
- Will DePaoli of Inside Pittsburgh Sports: Jaromir Jagr’s agent, Petr Svoboda, is in Montreal and confirms that he spoke with Penguins GM Ray Shero this morning.
- Thomas Reed via twitter: Tyler Kennedy could make sense for the Blue Jackets if he doesn’t come to terms with the Penguins.
- NHL.com: Penguins coach Dan Bylsma on Sidney Crosby,
“He came back to Pittsburgh after a hiatus or vacation with some of his teammates,” Bylsma said. “The doctors here cleared him to go home and work out as he normally would be working out. He’s been working out two times a day and progressing along his normal road of summer activity. That’s what Sid has been doing. He’s got another two and a half months ahead of doing that.”
Bylsma on Evgeni Malkin,
“He really believed — and was trying to convince everyone involved — that he was going to be coming back as soon as possible to play in the playoffs if we could have moved on (to the next round),” Bylsma said. “He was progressing to the point where that was actually a real possibility. He was really doing very well strength-wise and he was ahead of schedule in terms of what the doctors could do with his rehab.”
Richards update … Lightning have plenty of free agents to deal with … All quiet in Leafland … Jets, Wings, Sens, Hurricanes, Caps and Flyers rumors
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 27th, 2011
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post:
If I heard it once, I heard it a dozen times during this Entry Draft weekend in Minnesota: “[Brad] Richards told [X] he wants to come to New York.”
And this, too: “Slats [general manager Glen Sather] is going to blow his brains out to sign Richards.”
Brooks thinks a front loaded ($11 million) $32.5 million for 5 years should be enough. Richards is coming off a concussion, but is worth the risk.
- Erik Erlendsson of the Tampa Tribune: Lightning GM Steve Yzerman will be busy this week. Steven Stamkos will be an RFA on July 1st if a deal isn’t struck by then. Speculation grows that Stamkos may not be back in with the Lightning, the longer remains unsigned, though it is an unlikely scenario. An offer sheet could cost 4 1st round draft picks. Yzerman did meet with Stamkos’s agent at the draft, and will talk again this week. Yzerman will also speak with Dwayne Roloson’s agent.
“I’ve been in touch with virtually everybody’s agent, everybody will travel (Sunday) and get settled in to their offices and we’ll get back on the phone this week,” Yzerman said. “I’m optimistic, I believe that we will get things accomplished. We were able to get Eric (Brewer’s) done this week and we’ll chip away at our restricted guys and go from there.”
The Lightning have 14 players that they could send qualifying offers to, which must be done today. They may look at goaltending during free agency if Roloson doesn’t re-sign. Sean Bergenheim may sign elsewhere. Simon Gagne and Adam Hall are unlikely to return. The Lightning may be looking for a top 6, possibly Brad Richards.
- Rob Longley of the Toronto Sun: All is quiet from Brian Burke and team management with regards to their interest in Brad Richards. The Rangers, Flyers and Leafs are all expected to take a long look at signing the 31 year old free agent. Richards suggested after the season that he might take a discount to head back to Tampa Bay. Richards is likely looking for an 8 year deal in the $7 million range, which may be more than Burke would want to go. Burke believes that winger Matt Frattin may be able to make Leafs next fall.
- Ken Wiebe of the Winnipeg Sun: Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff had a few trade discussions with his former boss Blackhawks GM Stan Bowman, but nothing materialized.
“Stan and I chatted on a couple of things, but Stan had some big things on the go that were maybe a little bit not in the direction I was looking at at this point in time,” said Cheveldayoff. “We had some good conversations, they gave me some good support along the way and we had a good couple of laughs.
“We’ll have to wait for our first Chicago-Winnipeg deal.”
Cheveldayoff had some “feeling out” discussions with other teams. Cheveldayoff wouldn’t comment if they were one of the teams interested in Mike Richards. One report was saying the Flyers were looking at a package of Evander Kane, the 7th overall pick and possibly Alexander Burmistrov.
- Ted Kulfan of the Detroit News: Red Wings GM Ken Holland would like to add a top 4 calibre defenseman and possibly a backup goalie. Jaromir Jagr remains a possibility for the Red Wings and Penguins, but neither team wants to give him a huge salary. Holland is “in the same ballpark” with Jonathan Ericsson’s agent, and are getting closer to a deal. Negotiations with Patrick Eaves and Drew Miller aren’t going as smoothly. Kris Draper and Chris Osgood’s days as a Red Wing could hinge on how the free agency period plays out.
- Tim Baines of the Ottawa Sun: The Senators have about $20 million in cap space, but won’t be going after a Brad Richards or Kevin Bieksa or Dwayne Roloson. If the price is right, Baines thinks the Senators should go after Zenon Konopka. If Brooks Laich is wanting 4-5 years at $3.5 million, that may be too pricey.
- Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer: Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford met with the agents for Joni Pitkanen and Jussi Jokinen in the past week, and that “I’m at the point now that I do have hope that we’re going to be able to sign both players,” he says.
- Dustin Leed via twitter: Leed thinks there is “definitely a shot” that the Flyers will try to sign Brooks Laich. The Flyers have interest in Brad Richards but he could get a bigger deal elsewhere. Joel Ward, Brooks Laich, and Eric Cole are just a few of the possible replacements if Ville Leino walks.
- Renaud Lavoie via twitter: The Capitals have placed Tyler Sloan on waivers.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Semyon Varlamov is unlikely to re-sign with the Capitals.
Lemieux speaks with Jagr … Kings maybe looking for a LWer … Smyth to CAL or EDM … Kings may go after the other Richards … Leafs looking to deal
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 24th, 2011
We will continue to post rumors and trades all day long, so check back often for more Draft and Trade rumblings.
- Josh Yole of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: Mario Lemieux came away encourage from his talk with Jaromir Jagr. The Pens haven’t made an offer to Jagr, and are unsure if he’d take less money then he may get elsewhere. Detroit could offer more money. Jagr can’t sign anywhere until July 1st as it’s a “blackout period” now as stipulated in the CBA. Sources are saying Pens GM Ray Shero may not want to pay more than $1 million for Jagr.
- Dennis Bernstein via twitter: The LA Kings left wing wish list could line up like: Eric Cole, Simon Gagne, Ryan Malone, Alex Tanguay, and Cory Stillman.
- Randy Sportak of the Calgary Sun: The Flames are interested in trading for Ryan Smyth, though their level of interest isn’t known. If they don’t think they can get Alex Tanguay signed, they would have a hole on the left wing and would have a “net presence on the powerplay.” Maybe the Kings would take Ales Kotalik and his $3 million, could bury him in the minors.
- Nick Cotsonika via twitter: Ryan Smyth asked to be moved close to home. Kings GM Lombardi is down to 2 teams, started with 3. Pierre LeBrun via twitter: The Kings had more trade talks with the Flames and Oilers yesterday about Smyth, he’s going to end up in Alberta.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: If the Kings are able to move out Ryan Smyth, don’t rule a them making a move for Brad Richards.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: A high draft pick will likely be packaged with Ryan Smyth in any trade to accommodate taking on his contract.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: It doesn’t look like the Ottawa Senators will be able to move up from the #6 spot in tonight’s draft.
“We’ve been asked if we’d be willing to move a player with a pick rather than two picks,” Murray told The Team 1200. “It depends on the player. I think one team did ask about a little Swedish defenceman (Erik Karlsson) and the sixth overall and it was politely declined. There are lots of ideas out there that we don’t agree with and there will be lots of offers. You just have to pick the right one.
“I can see us moving two picks for sure, if not three, but I believe the price for moving up for one pick is usually two picks, not three picks. That’s what it has been in the past. I could see us moving a couple of picks. We could be talking about (keeping) eight or nine picks, but we could be talking 11. I would guess that we would probably trade two picks.”
- David Shoalts of the Globe and Mail: Brian Burke,
“I’ve got lots of lines in the water,” the Toronto Maple Leafs general manager said. “But I have no idea what’s going to happen.”
The Maple Leafs are trying to land a #1 center or move up in the draft. They have the #25, #30, and #39 picks but they are not enough to get close to the top 5 picks. He may not be that interested in moving the #25 pick to get “to the teens” as picks from #10 to around #26 are not much different in quality. Burke couldn’t answer questions regarding whether he was in on Mike Richards and/or Jeff Carter as it would violate NHL tampering rules. Darren Dreger reported that the Flyers called about Nazem Kadri and Nikolai Kulemin but never got to Burke (see one of yesterday’s posts for a little more info on it).
- Rob Longley of the Toronto Sun: Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke wants to see if winger Clarke MacArthur is a one year wonder before giving him a long-term deal, “The problem is I’m not prepared to commit to a long-term contract for a player who really had one productive year.”It would seem that negotiations for the RFA have come to a halt.
“Putting a value on that is not easy either. That’s why we haven’t been able to sign him. It’s not that he’s being unreasonable, it’s just ‘What is he?’
“Is he a 70-point player or is he a 35-point player where he has been most of his career, so I’m not surprised we’re having a difficult time arriving at a value.”
Burke on RFA Luke Schenn,
“There doesn’t appear to be any urgency on that one from their side,” Burke said of negotiations with Schenn’s camp. “They’ll probably wait and see if other teams sign contracts that they think might help them.”
- CP in the Globe and Mail: The Montreal Canadiens have re-signed Andrei Markov to a 3 year, $17.25 million deal, a $5.75 million cap hit.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Ilya Bryzgalov’s contract breakdown: “$10M, $6.5M, $8M, $6M, $6M,, $5.5M, $5.5M $2.25M, $1.25M.”
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Robyn Regehr was going to sleep on the proposed trade that would send him to Buffalo. He’s already spoken with Darcy Regier and Terry Pegula.
- Tim Panaccio via twitter: Sources are saying Chris Pronger will be offered the Flyers captaincy.
- Will DePaoli of Inside Pittsburgh Sports: Max Talbot rejected a 3 year offer from the Penguins last week. It’s believed to be a “slight” decrease in pay from his previous $1.05 million salary, possibly in the $800,000 range. If Talbot is going to take a reduction in pay, he may be wanting a 4 year deal.
Afternoon twitter rumors involving: Regehr to Sabres, the Kings-Flames and Smyth, Richards, Doughty, Stamkos, Markov, Maple Leafs, Jagr and Kaberle
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 23rd, 2011
- Darren Dreger via twitter: Sources say Robyn Regehr has been asked to waive his no-move clause and accept a trade to the Buffalo Sabres.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: LeBrun has been told that the Los Angeles Kings and Calgary Flames have talked about Ryan Smyth. Talks are very preliminary, but intriguing.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Stars GM Joe Nieuwendyk was told by Pat Morris (Richards agent) that they are going to July 1st and won’t waive the no-movement clause.
- Helene Elliott via twitter: Elliottt doesn’t see the LA Kings and Drew Doughty getting a deal done anytime soon. She does expect a Ryan Smyth trade this weekend. Dennis Bernstein via twitter: Bernstein isn’t hearing any difficulties regarding Kings and Doughty discussions.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Agent Don Meehen is expected to meet with the Kings about Doughty and Lightning about Steven Stamkos tomorrow.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Andrei Markov’s Russian agent didn’t deny that Markov re-signed with the Canadiens. He told SovSport, “I’m very happy for Andrei.” Agent added “Markov had a few very attractive offers from the KHL. He didn’t even consider them; wanted to stay in MTL.”
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: According to Don Meehan on the reports that Andrei Markov re-signed with the Canadiens “We’re not done, we’re still working on it.” Meehan is expected to meet with Canadiens GM Pierre Gauthier later today or tomorrow.
- Paul Hunter via twitter: Maple Leafs GM Burke said he’d trade his 3 top picks (25th, 30th and 39th) for an established player that could help now.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: McKenzie is hearing that the Canadiens are the ‘mystery’ team on Jagr’s list.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Blues and Matt D’Agostini talks are to pick up at the draft, could be looking for 1 year deal in the $1.5-$1.9 million range.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: You can squash any David Perron rumors considering he missed most of last season with a concussion.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Strickland has been told that Tomas Kaberle’s heart remains in Toronto.
- Kate Carrera via twitter: The Capitals have made a qualifying offer to defenseman Karl Alzner, and JP Barry expects to discuss a new deal later this week.
NHL rumors and notes on Richards, Jagr, Selanne, Kariya, Blue Jackets, Orlov … Draft notes on the Stars, Sens, Oilers and Avs
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 23rd, 2011
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: Brad Richards,
“You always keep an eye on that first day of July, you see what teams do and where players go. It’s always interesting,” Richards told ESPN.com on Wednesday. “There’s always something that surprises you. That’s why I want to keep everything open-minded. I’ve talked to people that have been through it and there’s always things that come out of nowhere and you want to be open-minded to receive all that stuff. It’s probably my last contract, so you want to set yourself up where you have a chance to win and feel comfortable.”
“Every day, it gets closer. I’m starting to think about it a lot,” Richards said. “It’s a very unique time, but also a little bit stressful. It’s going to be a very important decision. It’s exciting in a good way. It’s a big moment. It’s starting to hit me that it’s getting close, whereas a month ago, I would sit back and not really worry about it.”
Petr Svoboda, Jaromir Jagr’s agent,
“We had more discussion yesterday with Detroit and Pittsburgh,” Jagr’s agent, Petr Svoboda, told ESPN.com on Wednesday morning. “Jags may be talking with [Pens GM] Ray Shero and maybe [owner] Mario [Lemieux] today, so hopefully we’ll be further along after that. Hopefully we’ll have some news, one way or another, soon.”
On Jagr using NHL interest to get more money from KHL,
“It’s absolutely not true,” said Svoboda. “I’ve heard that, but it’s not true. I mean, there’s always that option if things don’t work out with [the NHL], but this is not about trying to get more money from [the KHL]. I know Jags wants to come back to the NHL and for the right reasons.”
On Teemu Selanne’s future,
“Teemu hasn’t decided whether he’s going to play or not,” Selanne’s veteran agent Don Baizley told ESPN.com on Wednesday. “If he plays, it’s going to be in Anaheim.”
Paul Kariya may play it safe and retire. Talks between Kevin Bieksa and the Canucks are progressing. The Coyotes and Bryzgalov don’t have a deal and are still far enough apart that a deal could go either way.
- Philadelphia Flyers via twitter: Flyers GM Paul Holmgren “We are continuing to try and reach an agreement with Ilya, but it is safe to say that we are not close to achieving this.”
- Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: The Red Wings have made their pitch to Jagr and are in a wait-and-see mode. GM Ken Holland would like to know by July 1st.
“We’re intrigued,” Holland said, “like we were with Dominik Hasek and Mike Modano. He was an elite player in his prime. He’s 39 years of age. If he decides to come back to the NHL, he’s coming back for all the right reasons. Whether he comes to Detroit or another destination, the great ones, even when Father Time is against them a little bit, they’re still pretty good players.”
Holland has made an offer to free agent Jonathan Ericsson of around $2 million a season. He’s in talks with Patrick Eaves and Drew Miller.
- Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: The Blue Jackets hope to begin their offseason makeover at the draft this week. They are looking for a skilled defenseman, a top 6 forward, and a backup goalie. Howson has spoken with many teams about possible deals. Their 8th overall pick is up for grabs.
“I’m going to do what’s in the best interest of the team,” Howson said. “It may turn out that taking the pick is in the best interest of the team.
“I want to make changes. I want to add high-end skill guys who can make an immediate difference. But you can’t force people to do something that you want them to do. So we’ll see how it plays out.”
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: Stars GM Joe Nieuwendyk said the odds of them trading up are slim, odds of trading down are pretty good.
“I think moving down is a more realistic possibility,” Nieuwendyk said. “Our guys feel that after a certain point in this draft there are a number of good players and you’d be happy with acquiring any one of them. We don’t have our third round pick, so trying to get an additional pick is something that will definitely be discussed.”
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: If the Senators are able to move up in the draft, they could be looking to grab winger Gabriel Landeskog, who could be selected 2nd overall. Whoever they pick could end up playing in the NHL next season. The Sens haven’t ruled out packing their 21st overall pick with 1 of their 3 2nd round picks to move up in the draft.
- Slava Malamud via twitter: Dmitri Orlov said that if he doesn’t make the Capitals next year, and they want him to go to the AHL, he’ll go there and not return to Russia.
- Larry Brooks via twitter: Jagr says that he didn’t not reach out to the Rangers, “If Glen thought I could help he would have told me.”
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Rumors are circulating that the Oilers have “NOT firmly decided” on draft Ryan Nugent-Hopkins. If the Oilers don’t take him, Dater thinks the Avs should draft him. If they do get RNH, it could make Paul Stastny available. With the Avs not showing interest in re-signing Tomas Fleischmann, it might mean they are looking at draft Gabriel Landeskog or Jonathan Huberdeau, both can play on the left wing. If RNH is taken by the Oilers, Dater thinks the Avs should take Huberdeau.
Pens and Wings may be favorites for Jagr … Stars still trying to trades Richards rights … Coyotes looking for a goalie … NHL Draft rumors
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Audio, NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on June 21st, 2011
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Jagr still hasn’t made a decision, and doesn’t know how long it will take. He said great things about Pittsburgh and Detroit.
- Will DePaoli via twitter: DePaoli hears it’s unlikely that the Penguins would go above $2 million a year for Jagr. Though they are intrigued with Jagr, they are not going to tie up cap space for a 39 year old at the expense of Kennedy and others. Though talks with Kennedy aren’t going well. DePaoli senses that Jagr’s first choice is Pittsburgh, Detroit doing a good sell job.
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: The Dallas Stars are still attempting to move Brad Richards rights,
“We continue to chip away here,” Stars GM Joe Nieuwendyk told ESPN.com on Tuesday. “Our intention is to move his rights and hope to do that prior to the draft here.”
Nieuwendyk wouldn’t give up much, but they may have an offer for Richards. They would have to convince Richards to waive his no-movement clause. The Stars would like to bring Jamie Langenbrunner back, but only a reasonable price. The Predators and Shea Weber continue to work on a new deal. They offered him salary arbitration, so no other team can give him an offer sheet. There hasn’t been any talks between Josh Gorges and the Montreal Canadiens. The Lightning and UFA Sean Bergenheim are not close.
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: Coyotes GM Don Maloney is making a list of his goalie options.
“There are several different options that we’re exploring, from young up-and-comers that are going to cost assets to acquire, to searching the UFA market to see who might be the right fit for us, to talking to some NHL teams,” Maloney told ESPN.com. “There’s three or four goaltenders that we might have interest in where the team in question might want to make a change. So really, the factors we’re looking at are acquisition cost, contract term, contract amount and age of the player.
“That’s all being evaluated and discussed. At some point, we’ll make a decision; at some point, we will have a goalie here. We’re just not there yet in regards to which way we want to go here.”
Goalies on his list could be free agents Tomas Vokoun, Jose Theodore, Marty Turco, JS Giguere, Ty Conklin, Mike Smith, Pascal Leclaire, Ray Emery, and Brian Boucher. On the trade side of things, Jonathan Bernier, Cory Schneider or Evgeni Nabokov. They are not close to signing any of their free agents which includes: UFAs Ed Jovanovski, Radim Vrbata, Vern Fiddler, and Eric Belanger, as well as RFAs Keith Yandle, Kyle Turris, Mikkel Boedker and Lauri Korpikoski.
- Dan Tencer via twitter: Oilers GM Tambellini said there has been some new trade talk regarding Sheldon Souray. A return to Edmonton is “not a likely scenario.”
- Andy Strickland via twitter: The Blues are looking to make a deal to improve their roster. Anybody is likely available except Pietrangelo, Stewart, Backes, and Berglund.
- Ryan Kennedy via twitter: 2 sources have told Kennedy that the Oilers could be looking to trade down from the 1st overall pick, with Florida a likely trade partner. Adrian Dater via twitter: Hearing chatter that Oilers and Panthers talking about swapping picks.
- Harvey Fialkov of the Sun-Sentinel: The Panthers are interested in drafting a center and would like to get there hands on Ryan Nugent-Hopkins if available, followed by Jonathan Huberdeau.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Dater thinks the Avalanche could draft Huberdeau at #2. Tomas Fleischmann still hasn’t been medically cleared, and the Avs haven’t said anything regarding his UFA status. Peter Mueller will be in training camp.
- Katie Strang of Newsday: The NY Islanders will draft the best player available at #5. GM Garth Snow,
“You don’t always know how it’s going to unfold,” Snow told Newsday in a recent telephone interview. “If there is an opportunity to trade up or down, we’d be open to anything like that.”
Free agent updates involving Jagr, Doughty, Tanguay, Selanne, Bryzgalov, the Canadiens and Red Wings
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 21st, 2011
- Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: Multiple sources confirmed that Jaromir Jagr approached the Pittsburgh Penguins about a possible return. The Red Wings, Rangers, Capitals and Canadiens are also of interest to Jagr. The Penguins may be open to the idea, the Pens were waiting for Jagr to contact them. The Penguins have 17 players under contract at $55.5 million.
- Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette: The Canadiens have 15 players under contract for next year after the signings of Max Pacioretty and David Desharnais. Andrei Markov’s side and GM Pierre Gauthier are still working on a deal and will meet at the draft. The Canadiens will have about $20.3 million available with the cap going up to about $64 million. Yannick Weber’s signing should be announced soon. They should have plenty of space available after Markov and Josh Gorges are signed to add a top 6 forward.
- Ted Kulfan of the Detroit News: Red Wings GM Ken Holland said they continue to negotiate with Jonathan Ericsson. They will decide in the next 10 days whether to offer a contract to Ruslan Salei. Rookie Brendan Smith will be given every opportunity to make the team. On trade talks, “We’ve received a few calls over the last week or so,” Holland said of potential trade opportunities. “Teams out there know we have a need on defense and we have cap space.” Jiri Hudler and Valtteri Filppula could be dangled. If they go the free agent route, Kevin Bieksa, Christian Ehrhoff, Sami Salo, James Wisniewski, Joni Pitkanen and Ed Jovanovski could be options.
- Steve MacFarlane of the Calgary Sun: The Calgary Flames would like to bring winger Alex Tanguay back, but there are large difference between the two sides, “it’s money” according to GM Jay Feaster. He’s likely looking for a big raise from the $1.7 million he made last year.
“Well, I’d like to think we can (sign him). But we’re not where we need to be, and there’s still a lot of work to be done,” Feaster said. “We’ll have to see where it goes.
“I think the fact we’re talking is a good thing.”
Feaster has talked with other teams about moving up or down in the draft.
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Teemu Selanne is still silent on whether he’ll return next season or retire. He’s said for months that he’ll decide by July 1st.
- Tim Rohan of the Philadelphia Inquirer: Flyers GM Paul Holmgren on Ilya Bryzgalov talks,
“Well, we would like that to get resolved at some point,” Holmgren said Monday on a conference call. “There is still enough time after the draft to get a deal done. The important thing is that there was progress made when Ilya [Bryzgalov] and his agent, Ritch Winter, were in town. I don’t see any reason why that’s not going to continue.
“I don’t have a crystal ball, so I can’t really give you a definitive answer. There is enough progress, which kind of gives me hope, anyway, that we can make a deal at some point.”
Holmgren added that at some point there needs to be a compromise on years and amount. TSN is reporting that the salary cap will be set at $64 million with the floor being $48 million. After July 1st, teams are able to go over the salary cap by 10%. Holmgren would also like to re-sign Ville Leino.
- Rich Hammond of LA Kings Insider: Kings GM Dean Lombardi on Drew Doughty’s contract negotiations,
I went up there (to Toronto) four weeks ago and opened up the dialogue (with agent Don Meehan). It was very clear, at that time, where it looked like it was headed. We came back and did our planning, looked at our options and what we could offer him, looked at the market, went to the GM meetings and then I flew up to Toronto from those meetings for another meeting (with Meehan). When you have the first meeting, you’re kind of laying the ground rules or whatever. This one was a little more focused. Things become clearer and we say, `OK, if this is going to get done, this is probably where it needs to be.’ Then I think we made a very serious offer to him this past week. I’m hoping to really push this forward at the draft.”
Twitter rumors and notes involving: Ryan Smyth and the Oilers, Varlamov, Maple Leafs, Red Wings, Flyers, Sharks and Jagr
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 20th, 2011
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: LA Kings winger Ryan Smyth would like to return to the Edmonton Oilers.
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: Senators assistant GM Tim Murray said they haven’t ruled out moving into the top 3, though it could be difficult to do.
- Calgary Flames via twitter: Goaltender Henrik Karlsson signs a 2 year contract worth $1.725 million.
- Slava Malamud via twitter: Semyon Varlamov confirms that the Capitals made him an offer months ago, but it wasn’t good enough. Negotiations are ongoing. KHL showing interest in him. His KHL rights are owned by Lokomotiv, but they can’t afford to make him an offer. Another KHL team is attempting to buy his rights. Lokomotiv will sell Varlamov’s rights if he wants them too. Varlamov says that he will take less money to play of the Capitals.
- Dan Rosen via twitter: Leafs GM Brian Burke on trying to trade up in the NHL draft, “We haven’t had any success, but it’s still early. There is still a possibility it might happen.” Sean Fitz-Gerald via twitter: Burke on pre-draft trades, “Right now, I got nothing. Lots of lines in the water, no bites.”
- Michael Traikos via twitter: The Maple Leafs announce that Scott Gordon and Greg Cronin are their new assistants. Keith Acton and Tim Hunter not returning. Greg Brady via twitter: Brady is hearing the Leafs wouldn’t have let Tim Hunter go without Scott Gordon available.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: A source inside the Red Wings tells Strickland that he believes Nicklas Lidstrom will play 2 more seasons.
- Nick Cotsonika via twitter: Red Wings GM Ken Holland says they are looking to be active and have the money to spend. But adds that they won’t spend just to spend.
- Mike Brophy via twitter: Red Wings forward Kris Draper is still waiting to hear if the Wings want him back next year.
- San Jose Sharks via twitter: Sharks GM Doug Wilson says that Jamal Mayers and Scott Nichol won’t be back next season.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Flyers GM Paul Holmgren said they’ll talk with Ilya Bryzgalov’s side tomorrow.
- Dustin Leed via twitter: From Holmgren’s conference call, he’d like to acquire a 1st or 2nd round pick, would like to re-sign Ville Leino and sign Bryzgalov.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: The Red Wings, Penguins and a few others are in on Jaromir Jagr, Canadiens “not so much anymore.”
- Max Pacioretty via twitter: Pacioretty tweets that he signed a 2 year deal with the Canadiens.
Twitter NHL rumors and notes involving: Jagr, Weber, Parise, Richards, Bryzgalov and Canucks UFAs
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 18th, 2011
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Jaromir Jagr’s agent said he had more talks with the Red Wings yesterday and plans to have more talks with other teams.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Nashville elects salary arbitration with Shea Weber, the same goes for New Jersey and Zach Parise. Other teams are now prohibited from putting an offer sheet on Weber and Parise.
- Ryan Rishaug via twitter: Shea Weber’s side and the Predators talked late into the night last night trying to get an extension in place. Negotiations have been going on for 2 days.
- Erik Erlendsson via twitter: Erlendsson thinks there is a strong possibility that Steve Yzerman and the Lightning could be interested in Brad Richards.
- Tim Panaccio via twitter: Flyers GM Paul Holmgren and Ilya Bryzgalov have talked different scenarios and will talk again next week. Panaccio thinks they are close and will get a deal done, but they need to move out salary because of the tagging rules.
- Matthew Sekeres via twitter: Kevin Bieksa, Christian Ehrhoff and Sami Salo suggest they would take less to remain with the Canucks.
Updates on Jagr, Kennedy, Stamkos, Ponikarovsky, and the Hurricanes
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 17th, 2011
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: LeBrun spoke with Red Wings GM Ken Holland who confirmed he has spoken with Jaromir Jagr’s camp, only preliminary at this point. LeBrun spoke with Jagr who confirmed interest in coming back to NHL. Petr Svoboda, Jagr’s agent, confirms that they’ve spoken with the Red Wings and Canadiens.
- Will DePaoli of Inside Pittsburgh Sports: Jagr’s camp has reportedly been in contact with the Capitals and Rangers. The Penguins are not interested at this time.
- Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: Penguins GM Ray Shero doesn’t have any deadline for re-signing winger Tyler Kennedy. He has no plans of trading his rights if nothing is finalized by July 1st. Re-signing Kennedy is still a priority for Shero despite not making much progress on a deal.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: No players were put on waivers today, may happen tomorrow.
- Eric Francis via twitter: Niklas Hagman and Ales Kotalik are buyout possibilities for the Flames, but most likely buried in the minors. No team would likely touch Matt Stajan if he was put on waivers.
- Will DePaoli via twitter: The LA Kings remain ‘intrigued’ by Alexei Ponikarovsky, despite not having a good season.
- Erik Erlendsson of the Tampa Tribune: Lightning GM Steve Yzerman is confident that they can re-sign Steven Stamkos.
“It is our intention to resign him, but he is restricted and we have the ability to match any potential offer sheet that might be put forward and we are in position to do that,” Yzerman said. “So, we are quite confident that Steven will be playing for the Lightning, and that’s our goal and we haven’t explored anything else and we don’t intend to look at it any other way.”
Discussions are being held with representatives from 3 of their free agents; Eric Brewer, Sean Bergenheim and Dwayne Roloson.
“I’ve been in contact with all their agents, in some cases we have exchanged numbers and, in a couple of other cases with our UFAs, we’ve said we are going to see where we are with a couple of players and then we’ll get back and let them know where we stand,” Yzerman said. “And that obviously has to take place in the next couple of weeks here.”
- Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer: The Hurricanes re-signed defenseman Jay Harrison to a 2 year, $1.4 million deal. They are not close to re-signing UFAs Jussi Jokinen, Chad LaRose, and Joni Pitkanen.
“With Pitkanen, Jokinen and LaRose, we know what their position is,” Rutherford said, referring to their financial demands. “I’ve given our position. It does not appear we will be able to sign them.”
GM Jim Rutherford hasn’t had any substantive talks with Eric Cole, “We expected to hear something by now, but we have not,” Rutherford said.“Things are not moving as we had hoped, and it’s getting closer to July 1,” Rutherford said Thursday. “We may have to look at other options. It may be easier to trade for players with existing contracts. Then we would know what we would be spending next year.
“I still prefer to sign some of our players. If not, we will look at a trade.
They will not look at trading their 12th overall pick at next weeks draft, nor any of their top prospects like Zac Dalpe, Zach Boychuk or Drayson Bowman. Rutherford will look to upgrade their top 4 defenseman. Kevin Bieksa and Christian Ehrhoff could be possibilities if they hit the open market.
Bryzgalov arrives in Philly … Things moving slowly in Nashville … Avs getting offers for 2nd overall pick … Jagr’s agent contracts Wings, Pens, Rangers and Habs
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 16th, 2011
- Tim Panaccio of CSNPhilly: Ilya Bryzgalov arrived in Philadelphia yesterday on Ed Snider’s private jet. He’ll meet with members of the organization today and tomorrow. Bryzgalov is scheduled to meet head coach Peter Laviolette and goalie Jeff Reese this morning, then others in the afternoon at the Wells Fargo Center. Neither side wants to talk about the negotiations. “We are in a bunker hiding from you guys,” Winter texted CSNPhilly.com. “Not planning to be found.”
- Josh Cooper of the Tennessean: Negotiations for Predators free agents moving slowly. “It seems like a slow process,” Poile said Wednesday. “I don’t want to speak for anyone else, but there are no high-end signings right now. It has been pretty slow.” On RFA Shea Weber,
“Right now I have nothing imminent,” Poile said. “Negotiations are ongoing and hopefully we will get something done sooner rather than later.”
Poile has held some talks with UFAs Joel Ward’s and Marcel Goc’s representatives. Ward is expected to ask for a raise from his $1.5 million 2010-11 salary.
“We are certainly going to crunch as many numbers as possible and discuss as much as possible what the open market would have for Joel,” Cooney said. “But at the same time, one must remember that Nashville certainly is right on the front burner for us to talk to at all times.”
The Predators named Peter Horachek their associate coach. The Preds re-signed defenseman Teemu Laakso to a 1 year, 2-way contract for $675,000 and $105,000 in the AHL.
- Josh Cooper via twitter: Predators GM Poile has said that some teams have called about some of their younger players in exchange for a 1st round pick.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: The Avalanche have been getting offers regularly for their 2nd overall pick in this year’s draft.
“It would have to be something paramount. But I’m not looking to move the pick,” Sherman said after the NHL’s most recent general managers’ meetings in Boston. “There has been interest in the pick. Given the plan that we’re on right now, it’s not something we’re looking to (trade).”
Winger Peter Mueller is expected to be ready for training camp after missing all of last season with a concussion. Tomas Fleischmann still hasn’t been cleared by medical personnel for his pulmonary embolism.
- Ansar Khan of MLive: Jaromir Jagr’s agent called the Detroit Red Wings to see if there was any interest. Jagr’s agent Petr Svoboda has also contacted the Penguins, Rangers and Canadiens. The Red Wings may consider as he could come at a decent price, and they wouldn’t have to give up anything to get him.
- Don Peat in Canoe.ca: Toronto City Council supports adding a 2nd NHL team in the city. The city’s economic development committee is asking Council to send a letter to the NHL expressing their support. [Councillor] Perruzza said a second team would give people in Toronto “the option to be able to go and support another team.”
“This market completely being dominated by one team that year in and year out takes advantage, I believe full advantage, of its fan base by simply knowing that we’re going to be there for them, in support of them,” he said. “And year in and year out it is just one great big disappointment, year after year after year after year.”
- Edmonton Journal: The Oilers have signed Finnish free agents Antti Tyrvainen (22) and Lennart Petrell (27). Former Oilers coach Craig MacTavish is on a short list for the Minnesota Wild head coaching position and has an interview with Winnipeg.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: Sources are saying that the Dallas Stars could name Glen Gulutzan their new head coach by the end of this week. Gulutzan was their AHL affiliate coach.
- Harvey Fialkov of the Sun Sentinel: If the Panthers were considering buying out Rostislav Olesz, they won’t be able to while he recovers from an injury. Injured players are not able to be bought out. Olesz is recovering from a torn ACL and won’t be cleared until the fall.
Afternoon twitter roundup involving: Horton, Winnipeg, Wallin, Sobotka, Souray and Jagr
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 15th, 2011
- Ian Mendes via twitter: Bruins coach Julien on Nathan Horton: “He’s got a concussion. There is no way in the world he plays tonight.”
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: Word around the NHL is “Muller doesn’t interview well and doesn’t have enough experience behind the bench.”
- Darren Dreger via twitter: Craig MacTavish will meet with Winnipeg GM Kevin Cheveldayoff about the head coaching position.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: Marc Bergevin is expected to be named the Blackhawks assistant GM.
- Uffe Bodin (hockeysverige.se) via twitter: SJ Sharks defenseman Niclas Wallin has signed a deal with Lulea (Sweden) and will be their captain next season.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Blues and Vladimir Sobotka finalize their 3 year, $3.9 million deal. Yearly breakdown: $1.2 million, $1.3 million, $1.4 million.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: NHL buyout period can’t begin until 48 hours after the Stanley Cup final. Won’t begin until Friday or Saturday, the NHL is still figuring out the exact date/time. The Oilers may buy Sheldon Souray out, but not before the draft as they will “test trade waters/options.”
- Pavel Lysenkov via twitter: Jaromir Jagr’s agent said they have only one KHL offer from Avangard. Omsk doesn’t have enough money.
Winnipeg press conference for 11 am Central, 12 pm Eastern … Lightning off-season notes … Panthers sign Skille
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News on May 31st, 2011
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: An announcement will be made at 11 am Central time regarding the Thrashers move to Winnipeg, pending Board of Governor’s approval. Sean Fitz-Gerald via twitter: NHL network is carrying the press conference at 11 am Central, 12 pm Eastern. Bob McKenzie via twitter: Winnipeg will play out of the Southeast Division in the Eastern Conference next season, and realignment will happen the year after. No decision on team name yet, ownership may be moving away from the “Jets” name, but public support for “Jets” is only reason they may be still undecided.
- Jim Jamieson of the Vancouver Province: Christian Ehrhoff and Aaron Rome will be in the lineup for Game 1. Ehrhoff suffered what looked to be a shoulder injury in Game 3 against the Sharks. Rome was dazed in Game 3 after a hit from behind.
- The Fourth Period: Steven Stamkos’s agent told The Fourth Period that he’ll be discussing a multi-year deal with the Lightning “in the near future.” They could work on a 5 year deal.
- Erik Erlendsson of the Tampa Tribune answered numerous questions on twitter yesterday about the Tampa Bay Lightning. Chances are slim that the Lightning re-sign Simon Gagne, Eric Brewer a notch above that. It’s believed that it’s taking so long to get Steven Stamkos re-signed because of the lack of CBA beyond next year is a factor in term/salary structure. Erlendsson thinks a Stamkos’ deal will be longer than 5 years, and less than $8 million. Lightning off-season needs are to find a mobile defenseman, goaltending, and a power play quarterback. He thinks that Dwayne Roloson will return next season as their starter. “It’s always possible” that Brad Richards returns to Tampa. Erlendsson thinks that both Teddy Purcell and Sean Bergenheim will re-sign with the team.
- Genadi Boguslavski via twitter: Two Canadiens players have signed with Barys Astana of the KHL, Nigel Dawes and Justin Boyd.
- Slava Malamud (of Sport Express) via twitter: SKA of the KHL offered Jaromir Jagr a 1 year deal woth $4.5 million according to a Czech Republic report. SKA is officially denying the offer.
- Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: The Penguins won’t be signing 2009 draft picks, center Andy Bathgate and Dman Viktor Ekbom. Bathgate was a 5th round pick and recorded 60 point in 64 games with Belleville of the OHL. He’s missed a lot of time with a shoulder injury the last 2 1/2 years. Ekbom was a 6th round pick, recording 8 assists in 96 games the last 2 seasons with Linkoping in Sweden’s Eletserien. Both will re-enter the draft.
- Ken Warren of the Ottawa Citizen: The Senators signed prospects Jakub Silfverberg and Louie Caporusso to entry level deals yesterday. Silfverberg was a 2nd round pick in 2009, and Caporusso was playing at the University of Michigan.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: The Panthers have re-signed Jack Skille to a 2 year deal with a $825,000 cap hit.
Jagr not considering NHL … No Ehrhoff at skate … Brian Burke video – talks prospects and draft
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Videos on May 24th, 2011
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Jaromir Jagr’s agent tells @plysenkov that Jagr isn’t considering any offers from the NHL at this time.
- Ben Kuzma via twitter: Canucks defenseman Christian Ehrhoff (shoulder) not taking part in the pre-game skate.
- Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke – Leafs looking at packaging a 1st (1 of 2) and 2nd (39th) to move up in the draft. Will draft best player available and not by position. Also focusing on adding a number one center, if can’t get one in free agency, will look at trades.
Who will start for Lightning? Thornton says he’ll play in Game 5 … Isles should ask for Versteeg, Hartnell or Carle for Nabokov … Jagr to sign in KHL
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 23rd, 2011
- Damian Cristodero of the St. Petersburg Times: Lightning coach Guy Boucher won’t reveal who his starting goalie will be, but it sounds like it would be Dwayne Roloson.
“I don’t feel like we’ve got a situation. … We’ve got a goaltender that has taken us here that knows how to win and knows how to bounce back.”
So is Roloson playing?
“He’s getting prepared for (today),” Boucher said.
- Mark Emmons of hte San Jose Mercury News: Sharks Joe Thornton didn’t return after taking a shoulder-to-shoulder hit by Raffi Torres in the 3rd period. Thornton didn’t talk to the media afterwards, but did send a text message that he’ll be in the lineup for Game 5,
“100 percent,” Thornton texted in response to the question of whether or not he expected to play. “It’s playoffs, got to play through everything.”
- David Climer of the Tennessean: The Predators need to lock up their face of the franchise, Shea Weber, and they should do it soon. If Weber is able to hit the open next season as a UFA, the Preds would have little chance of retaining him, as he could hit the $8 million mark.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: The Islanders can’t just trade Evgeni Nabokov for a draft pick or prospect. “If the Flyers, who would like to dump some salary, aren’t willing to give up Kris Versteeg, Scott Hartnell or defenceman Matt Carle, all of whom make at least $3 million US a season, Snow should say no thanks.” If Nikolai Zherdevi isn’t playing in the KHL next year, Matheson would be shocked. Joni Pitkanen would look good in a Red Wings jersey, but they may not have the cap space to sign him. Do the Blue Jackets have the money to give Pitkanen? If the Oilers go after any unrestricted free agents, they should go after Brooks Laich. It wouldn’t be a surprised if former Blue Jackets assistant Bob Boughner becomes a Red Wings assistant.
- Genadi Boguslavski via twitter: Sometime this week Jaromir Jagr will sign a deal with SKA of the KHL.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Dominik Hasek hasn’t received any contract offer yet for next season, and if he doesn’t, he’ll officially retire.
- Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer: Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford has said that it could be difficult for them to re-sign Jussi Jokinen. Jokinen could get as much as $3 million per season on the open market.
Bergeron needs medical clearance … Contract talks for Gorges and Markov next … Coaching candidates
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 19th, 2011
- Steve Conroy of the Boston Bruins: Patrice Bergeron just needs medical clearance before he can get back in the Bruins lineup. He took contact at yesterday’s practice, and will take part in this mornings practice before deciding if he’s in or not. He’d most likely center Mark Recchi and Brad Marchand. Shawn Thornton would likely be the odd man out. Tyler Seguin would likely remain with Chris Kelly and Michael Ryder.
- Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: If Drew Miller is back with the Red Wings next year or not, it will come down to price. He made $650,000 this past season, and was a valuable penalty killer. He added 10 goals and 8 assists in 67 games. “Hopefully we can work something out. I’d definitely like to stay — I mean, it’s a great organization here. They have a lot of depth, but that’s what happens when you have a good team.”
- Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette: The Canadiens now have 3 defenseman under contract for next season, Alexei Yemelin, PK Subban and Jaroslav Spacek. Negotiations for Josh Gorges and Andrei Markov are next. Because of the salary cap, it’s unlikely that James Wisniewski or Brent Sopel will be back. Hal Gill and Roman Hamrlik could be back at the right price.
- Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune Review: Salary cap issues could prevent the Penguins from re-signing Tyler Kennedy. They’d like to keep him, but the RFA may be in the $1.5 – $2 million range. He had 21 goals and 45 points last season. Kennedy could be traded before the team has to send him a qualifying offer.
- Tony Marinaro via twitter: Bob Boughner stepped down as the Blue Jackets assistant coach. Marinaro is hearing that Florida or Dallas could be possible teams he could coach.
- Rich Hammond of the LA Kings Insider: Oscar Moller update. He’s expected to sign 2 year deal with a team in Sweden, and the Kings would almost certain retain the RFA’s rights. To retain his rights they would just have to extend a qualifying offer by June 27th.
- Andy Strickland of True Hockey: Dave Cameron (Mississauga OHL head coach) is being strongly considered as the next Ottawa Senators head coach. Minnesota and Florida are possible destinations for former NY Islanders head coach Scott Gordon. A source tells Strickland to not completely write off Brad Richards to Tampa. Strickland (and myself) doesn’t see it happening. A $4-5 million price tag for Jaromir Jagr could be a hefty price if a potential 3rd line NHL winger. Strickland is told that Mike Modano will officially retire at some point this off-season. Chris Osgood could do the same.
Bergeron traveling with team to Tampa … Kubina not progressing well … Moller to Sweden … Vishneskiy to KHL … No contract news for Parise
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 18th, 2011
- Steve Conroy of the Boston Herald: A team spokesman said that he believes Patrice Bergeron will travel with the club to Tampa today. He’s progressing well and could be in the lineup for Game 3 or 4.
- Erik Erlendsson of the Tampa Tribune: Pavel Kubina is still listed as ‘day-to-day’ with an upper body injury. He’s been out since Game 1 of the Washington series after hitting his head against the boards. “He’s not even here, so the update is not very good,” Boucher said. “Every day when there seems to be a little progression, it kind of slips back a bit. So, it’s kind of an injury that you never know. You wake up the next day and everything’s great or just keeps on going the same way, so it’s very hard to monitor what’s going on with him.”
- Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post Gazette: Penguins GM Ray Shero said he’s “had a few conversations” some of their soon to be free agents representatives. Negotiations for most of their free agents will have to wait until after their amateur scouting meetings are over (running June 6-8). He didn’t rule out doing a deal or two before. The Penguins have about $55.7 million committed to 17 players for next year. Sidney Crosby is scheduled to meet with his concussion specialist before the end of the month.
- Chicago Sun-Times: Blackhawks prospect Ivan Vishnevskiy signed with Atlanta of the KHL. He was acquired with a 2nd round pick for Andrew Ladd. His entry level deal expired after this season. Vishneskiy had 15 points in 46 game in the AHL.
- Rich Hammond of LA Kings Insider: Kings prospect Oscar Moller has been talking to teams in Sweden and could be signing a 2 year contract. Any contract he signs would have an ‘out’ clause so that he could return to the NHL. The Kings don’t really mind this, as it will allow him to play professionally and gain some experience against older players.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: There is still no indication if Vladimir Tarasenko is looking to buyout his KHL contract and sign a NHL deal.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: The Stars have contacted several potential coaching candidates but don’t have a timetable to the hiring. “The ownership situation is a huge part of this, and it’s something we’re going to have to be aware of,” said Nieuwendyk.
- Kevin Allen via twitter: A group interested in keeping the Thrashers in Atlanta have submitted a term sheet outlining their offer. The 2nd group is serious but not are not as far along in the financial process compared to the True North group.
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: NJDevils RFA Zach Parise said in an email that he’s heard nothing on a contract yet.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: KHL’s Avagnard is still interested in signing Jaromir Jagr unless he wants more money. The Alexander Frolov signing doesn’t affect Jagr’s situation.
Glencross re-signs with Flames … Boogaard receiving counseling before death … Brygalov would relish to be Flyer … Jagr’s 3 team NHL wishlist
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 16th, 2011
- Vicki Hall via twitter: The Calgary Flames has re-signed Curtis Glencross to a multi-year deal.
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: If the NY Islanders arena project doesn’t take shape, it could be difficult to lock John Tavares up long-term as he may not want to re-sign with a team with a cloudy future. It would also be hard to bring in free agents as they would unsure as to where the team could be playing in 4 years after the Coliseum lease is up.
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: Derek Boogaard was receiving counseling from the league’s Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Program in the days before his death. His brain has been donated by his parents to the Boston University Medical School who are doing research on brain disease in athletes.
- Will DePaoli of Inside Pittsburgh Sports: People close to Jaromir Jagr think he’ll return to the KHL next season, though Jagr speculated about 3 NHL teams that could be on his wishlist. Team sources at the World Championship indicated that the Montreal Canadiens are at the top of his wishlist, followed by his former teams, the Pittsburgh Penguins and the New York Rangers.
- Marc Antoine Godin via twitter: Regarding Jagr, a source has said that Canadiens GM Pierre Gauthier hasn’t closed the door as completely as rumored since May.
- Tim Panaccio of CSN Philly: A league source has said that Ilya Bryzgalov would be a perfect fit in Philadelphia. The source is close to Bryzgalov and added he would relish becoming a Flyer.
“He would love the adulation he’d get in Philadelphia,” the source said. “This is a big guy, who plays back in the net and can play a lot of games for the Flyers. Phoenix and the Flyers have had some talks this season about trades, including Jeff Carter.
“Phoenix needs some significant help up the middle with Kyle Turris. They’ve talked to Philadelphia about trading for Carter to achieve that. Maybe they do that. Philadelphia has to move salary. You need to clear about $5.5 million to bring Bryzgalov to Philly, if he’s their guy.”
Tomas Vokoun and Evgeni Nabokov are UFA’s and might interest the Flyers. Miikka Kiprusoff and Niklas Backstrom may also be of interest, but they would have to be acquired through trade.
Bergeron could be back for Game 2 … Red Wings off-season notes … Jagr talking to KHL teams … Oilers interested in Lajunen
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 15th, 2011
- Joe Haggerty via twitter: Indications Haggerty got from Bruins players is that Patrice Bergeron is going to play in Game 2.
- Ansar Khan of MLive: The Red Wings internally talked about acquiring Zach Bogosian at the trade deadline but they didn’t want to breakup the core of a contending team. Jiri Hudler could be a trade candidate this summer, but his $2.875 million salary could be tough to move unless they take back another contract. Khan wonders if the Wings would consider trading Valtteri Filppula? He’s talented but inconsistent and may not ever become the 70 point guy they think he could be.
- Ansar Khan of MLive: Red Wings Kris Draper and Chris Osgood will both ponder retirement this off-season. Mike Modano is 75% on leaning to retirement. Defenseman Jonathan Ericsson is a UFA but would like to re-sign. “I might make more money somewhere else, but I want to stay,” Ericsson said. Drew Miller and Patrick Eaves are also UFA’s and woulds like to stay. Pavel Datsyuk won’t need surgery on his injured wrist.
- Shelly Anderson of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: Jaromir Jagr has had contract talks with SKA St. Petersburg and other KHL teams. Pascal Dupuis and Mike Rupp’s agent Allan Walsh hasn’t had talks with the Penguins yet but expects “to begin discussions in the near future.”
- Dan Barnes of the Edmonton Journal: The Edmonton Oilers are one of a few teams that are interested in Finnish defenseman Ville Lajunen, and have had preliminary discussions with the Oilers. “They told me they must first have their pro (scouting) meetings and then they will make a decision, but there are other teams too,” said Pulliainen.
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