Posts Tagged Jaroslav Halak
Richards could go tonight … Lidstom could return next season … Jovo skates … Morrison could be done for year
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News on March 9th, 2011
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: Brad Richards will take the morning skate with the Stars, and if all goes well, he’ll be in the lineup tonight. “You don’t want to get ahead of yourself, and I certainly know the process and what we have to go through, but as far as I’m concerned, I’m going to the arena tomorrow morning as a player,” Richards said [yesterday].
- Ted Kulfan of the Detroit News: Kulfan thinks that Lidstrom could win the Norris this year, and with the Red Wings still Stanley Cup contenders, he’s likely to return next season. Chris Osgood will be thinking about retiring after the season, but Kulfan also wouldn’t be surprised if he comes back for one more season.
- Don Brennan of the Ottawa Sun: The Senators need to re-sign Craig Anderson to hold the fort until Robin Lehner is ready. Jared Cowen and David Rundblad could be ready to make the jump to the NHL next year, and that could leave Filip Kuba and Brian Lee on the outside. Lee has a salary at $875,000, so he could be trade bait. Kuba makes $3.7 million, and if they can’t move him, he could be bought out.
- Jim Gintonio of the Arizona Republic: Ed Jovanovski skated for the 1st time on Tuesday since having orbital bone surgery. He was wearing a face shield, and he hopes to return before the end of the season. Martin Hanzel, Ray Whitney and Derek Morris all missed last night’s game with lower body injuries and are day-to-day.
- Tom Reed of the Columbus Dispatch: Blue Jackets forward Derick Brassard has been cleared to return to the lineup, and is a game time decision. He’s had a hand injury that has kept him out of the lineup for the last 3 weeks.
- Jason Botchford of the Vancouver Province: Mason Raymond missed last night’s game with a shoulder injury, but hopes to play on Thursday.
- Jess Myers of the Denver Post: John-Michael Liles left night’s game after playing just over 2 minutes. “I think it was a quad injury, a leg injury. We’ll know more in the morning. He wasn’t able to return,” said Avalanche coach Joe Sacco.
- George Johnson of the Calgary Herald: Flames center Brendan Morrison told media he’s uncertain about his availability for the remainder of the season, playoffs included. “We still have some swelling in the knee and it’ll probably be another two or three weeks before we get a solid evaluation,’’ he said on Tuesday. “We’re optimistic that I can hopefully come back but we’re not going to know until everything settles down and we test it. We just have to wait and see.’’
- Andy Strickland of True Hockey: Jaroslav Halak is likely to get the start for the Blues tonight.
- Eric Stephens via twitter: The Ducks have signed Luca Sbisa for 4 years, and $8.7 million contract extension. He’ll carry a $2.175 million cap hit, with annual salaries of $1.2 million, $2 million, $2.6 million, and $2.9 million.
- Katie Carrera via twitter: Both Backstrom and Neuvirth didn’t skate yesterday, more should be known about their injuries today.
Afternoon twitter notes
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News on March 7th, 2011
- John Grigg via twitter: Carolina Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford has made 114 trades since he took over in June 1994. He made 14 in 2010.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Ty Conklin will start in net for the Blues tonight, and they hope to have Jaroslav Halak back on Wednesday.
- James Mirtle via twitter: Flames center Brendan Morrison will be out 2-3 weeks with swelling in his knee.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: The Dallas Stars are hopeful to have Brad Richards in the lineup on Wednesday.
- Ian Mendes via twitter: Senators winger Milan Michalek will be out 4 weeks with a broken foot, so he’s likely done for the year.
- Ian Mendes via twitter: Peter Regin will be out 4-6 months after shoulder surgery. Matt Carkner is out 2-4 weeks after having his knee scoped.
More Trade Fallout … Biron and Spacek injured … Starting goalies
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Videos on March 1st, 2011
- Darren Dreger via twitter: Seems that due to the high asking price for Zenon Konopka (a 2nd round pick), the Islanders may want to re-sign him. Brett Cyrgalis of the NY Post: The Islanders were also shopping Radek Martinek for a 2nd round pick. GM Garth Snow hasn’t talked about a contact extension for Konopka, and will reevaluate at the end of the season.
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: The Dallas Stars never backed off their demands of “one or two core roster players, a premium prospect and a first-round draft pick” for Brad Richards.
- Tim Bontemps of the NY Post: Rangers backup goalie Martin Biron broke his collarbone at practice yesterday and is out indefinitely.
- George Richards of the Sun Sentinel: Stephen Weiss denied reports that he’d only waive his no trade clause to head to Toronto.
- Rich Chere of the Star-Ledger: Devils GM Lou Lamoriello never considered trading Andy Greene or Johan Hedberg.
- Barry Davis via twitter: Canadiens defenseman Jaro Spacek had arthroscopic surgery and will be out 4 to 6 weeks.
- Ian Walker via twitter: Canucks coach Alain Vigneault on yesterday’s trades, “We’re a more complete team, a more balanced team and have more depth, which should help.”
- Dan Tencer via twitter: Magnus Paajarvi will replace Dustin Penner with Horcoff and Hemsky. Hall, Cogliano and Eberle will stay together. Martin Gerber will start in net.
- Joe Haggerty via twitter: Tuukka Rask likely to get the start versus the Senators.
- Chris Vivlamore via twitter: Chris Mason will be in net for the Thrashers versus Carey Price and the Canadiens. There is no timetable to Ondrej Pavelec’s return.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Jaroslav Halak took shots today but is still not ready to return.
- Howard Berger via twitter: James Reimer will start tomorrow versus Pittsburgh, Giguere will be the backup.
Caps Backstrom has fracture but may not miss time … Zherdev to Leafs doubtful, Thrashers maybe … Halak travels with Blues … Hiller has Vertigo
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News on February 24th, 2011
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: The tip of Capitals center Niklas Backstrom is fractured, but he may not miss any time.
- Bob McKenzie vai twitter: Doesn’t think there is a chance in the world that the Maple Leafs put a claim in on Nikolai Zherdev.
- Scott Burnside via twitter: Burnside thinks the Thrashers may consider Zherdev.
- Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post Dispatch: Jaroslav Halak traveled with the Blues but is unlikely to start tonight. He could go tomorrow or Sunday.
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Ducks goalie Jonas Hiller was told by doctors that he has ‘vertigo’ but the clause is not known. Hiller hasn’t been on the ice since Feb. 15th.
- Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: There is a chance that the Penguins will get center Mark Letestu back this weekend. He’s been cleared to play after having surgery to repair torn meniscus. “I don’t think this weekend is out of the question,” he said of a comeback. “(By) next week, I don’t doubt it. That’s a modest goal.” A rookie, Letestu has scored 10 goals for the Penguins.
- Michael Russo via twitter: Guillaume Latendresse is a couple weeks away from returning to the Wild’s lineup.
Injury notes on Hiller, Gaborik, Halak, and Perron … The return of Ballard and Hamhuis … Weiss would take deal Panthers can’t refuse
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 22nd, 2011
- Corey Masisak of NHL.com: If Ducks goalie Jonas Hiller doesn’t return soon and they continue to have trouble keeping the puck out of the net (21 goals in 3 games), GM Bob Murray may have to make a deal.
“Making deals is really hard,” Murray said. “If it comes to that point where I think Jonas is really going to be a while, we may have to say, ‘OK’. Not at this point.”
Panthers assistant GM Mike Santos,
“We’re going to make trades to improve the team in the future regardless of where we are in the playoff race,” Santos told the Sun-Sentinel. “This is a long-term project. There’s 10 years of mismanagement that we’re trying to turn around, hopefully in three or four years.”
- Eric Stephens via twitter: Jonas Hiller worked out off ice today and only would say, “not going the way I’d like them to.”
- Andrew Gross of The Record: Marian Gaborik will be out an indefinite period with a concussion. Gaborik did not make the trip with the team. He must pass the baseline test before he’s able to return.
- Andy Strickland of True Hockey: Blue goalie Jaroslav Halak is expected to remain on the IR through Friday, further update may be given today by the team. David Perron will be traveling with the team to Vancouver where he’ll see a specialist.
- Dave Stubbs of Habs Inside/Out: Canadiens head coach Jacques Martin wouldn’t confirm reports that defenseman Jaroslav Spacek is done for the season. He continues to get treatment in Montreal.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Panthers are working the phones but nothing so far… They won’t deal Stephen Weiss unless they get an offer they can’t refuse.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Maple Leafs thought they were closer to acquiring defenseman over the weekend, but nothing imminent.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: The Thrashers and Andrew Ladd are not close to a contract extension, but they are in the beginning stages.
- Ben Kuzma vai twitter: Keith Ballard and Dan Hamhuis look like they will both be back in the Canucks lineup.
Kings – Oilers talking Hemsky … White could be traded by ‘Canes soon … Pens playing waiting game … Phillips wants to stay in Ottawa
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL Rumors on February 16th, 2011
- Dennis Bernstein via twitter: No definitive offer from LA Kings for Ales Hemsky, but talk is increasing. Possibly a Simmonds and Teubert package or Simmonds and top defenseman prospect/1st round pick.
- Bob McKenzie and Chip Alexander via twitter: Ian White didn’t practice with the Hurricanes today. He hasn’t been traded yet, but could be at some point. Paul Maurice said that “if something happens with White it will be in next 24 hrs.”
- Update: Bob McKenzie via twitter: The Canucks haven’t traded for Ian White, nor have they had a single conversation about trading for White.
- Will DePaoli of Inside Pittsbugh Sports: The Penguins have been scouting the Senators, Devils, Avalanche, and Panthers in recent days. They are hoping that as the days pass, more teams will fall out of playoff contention and become sellers, increasing the trade market. They will look for rental players, and not a longer term guy like an Ales Hemsky, they don’t want to give the assets to get a player like him. They don’t think there is another team interested in Alex Kovalev and could get him for a conditional 5th round pick. Organizational members are torn on Kovalev.
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: Chris Phillips declared today that he wants to stay in Ottawa and help with the rebuild. Phillips when he was asked if he wanted to stay, “I do and I know people will call me crazy for saying that.”
- Jeremy Rutherford via twitter: Jaroslav Halak is day-to-day with an upper-body injury.
- Jonas Seigel via twitter: JS Giguere starting for Leafs tonight against the Sabres.
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: Sergei Gonchar and Chris Campoli are expected to miss this weekend games.
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Martin Brodeur skated on his own at practice.
Bruins looking for Dman, Savard not replaceable … Forsberg decision by tomorrow? Rangers scouting Souray … Conroy retires … DiPietro out 4-6 weeks
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 5th, 2011
- Joe Haggerty via twitter: Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli said that Marc Savard is has “headaches” and “vertigo” two weeks after being hit by Matt Hunwick. Haggerty doesn’t think he’ll return this year.
- Jimmy Murphy via twitter: Chiarelli made it clear that he’ll be looking for a defenseman before the NHL trade deadline, and that Savard “can’t be replaced.”
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Peter Forsberg had good practice yesterday, 48 hours after struggling through a practice. “It’s starting to feel better, actually, compared to Wednesday,” Forsberg said. “We’re near a decision here. We’re very near a decision here.” The Avalanche leave on Sunday for a 4 game road trip, and it’s possible that Forsberg will decide if he’s going to join the team or not by then. If Forsberg comes back, it’s likely on left wing.
- Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: Evgeni Malkin’s return to the Penguins lineup didn’t last too long as he left in the 2nd period. He took a somewhat awkward hit, and his knee “appeared to buckle inward.” The severity of the injury is not known yet.
- James O’Brien of Pro Hockey Talk: Isles Rick DiPietro will be out 4-6 weeks after being one-punched by Brent Johnson. He suffered facial fractures and swelling in his knee (and a bruised ego).
- Jim Matheson via twitter: Oilers GM Tambellini said that no GM has called and said he’d take Sheldon Souray on waivers. He’ll remain in the AHL for now.
- EJ Hradek via twitter: Hradek only see’s the NY Rangers acquiring Souray as a re-entry waiver pick-up.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Rangers GM Glen Sather has been to Hershey to watch Souray play, and they sent a pro scout to watch him play tonight.
“Until I get a call from a team saying they’re interested in Sheldon, I won’t be putting him on re-entry (waivers),” said Oilers general manager Steve Tambellini.
“Have I had a call yet from anybody? No, I haven’t,”
- Kevin McGran of the Toronto Star: Jonas Gustavsson accepted a 2 week conditioning stint with the Toronto Marlies. Coach Ron Wilson, “He’s got two other guys ahead of him right now playing better. The easiest way for him to gain his confidence is to play some games in the American league.”
- Randy Sportak of the Calgary Sun: Craig Conroy retired from the NHL yesterday, and will stay with the club as a “special assistant to acting general manager Jay Feaster.”
- Andy Strickland of True Hockey: Jaroslav Halak missed last night’s game with a ‘very minor’ upper-body injury.
No truth to Savard-Regehr twitter rumor … Cortisone shot for Ovie … Eberle has appendectomy … Starting goalies … Commodore on waivers.
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on January 6th, 2011
- Jimmy Murphy via twitter: Source told Murphy no truth to the Marc Savard for Robyn Regehr twitter trade rumor.
- Brian McNally via twitter: Alex Ovechkin had a cortisone shot after Tuesday’s game, Capitals not saying where. Matt Hendricks also had one.
- Dan Tencer via twitter: Last night Jordan Eberle had an emergency appendectomy, but not a major setback.
- James Mirtle via twitter: It will be Jaro Halak vs. Jonas Gustavsson in Toronto tonight.
- Dan Tencer via twitter: Dubnyk will be in net for the Oilers tonight.
- Chris Vivlamore via twitter: Boris Valabik was put on re-entry waivers by the Atlanta Thrashers.
- James Mirtle via twitter: Mike Commodore was put on waivers by the Blue Jackets.
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: Ethan Moreau was put in the IR by the Blue Jackets, and recalled LW Matt Calvert.
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: Brayden Schenn was playing in the World Juniors with a partially separated shoulder and will be out 10-14.
Rolston clears waivers, has never been asked to waive no-trade … Kane returns Friday? Seguin a healthy scratch? Roster notes and Starting goalies
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on December 15th, 2010
- Chris Kuc via twitter: Patrick Kane is close to returning, “Friday is a possibility. I just have to see how I am (Thursday) in practice and Friday in the pregame skate.” Tim Sassone via twitter: David Bolland is likely in the lineup for the Blackhawks tonight. Fernando Pisani won’t be in the lineup.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Rolston cleared waivers and will be in the lineup for the NJ Devils tonight. Tom Gulitti via twitter: Brian Rolston said he’s never been asked to waive his no-trade clause. He was asked if he would waive it, responded, “We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it”. Rolston expects to be in the lineup tonight.
- Joe Haggerty via twitter: Tyler Seguin could be a healthy scratch tonight.
- Joe Haggerty via twitter: Looks like Tuukka Rask will start tonight for the Bruins against the Sabres. Tim Thomas likely to start against the Canadiens.
- Corey Masisak via twitter: Bruce Boudreau said that Alex Ovechkin is fine, but Alexander Semin is questionable for the Capitals. Katie Carrera via twitter: Semyon Varlamov likely to start for the Capitals.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Jaroslav Halak will face Jimmy Howard tonight.
- Joshua Cooper via twitter: Pekka Rinne is in full pads at the Predators practice this morning, taking shots.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: It doesn’t look like Senators GM Bryan Murray will be able to make a trade before the NHL holiday roster freeze (Sunday the 19th). The Senators want to add a top 6 forward and a rugged dman. Teams are looking young players in return for older, expensive underachievers, which is why it’s unlikely he’ll get something done (I’m thinking Murray will join this train of thought if he looks to deal Alexei Kovalev).
“We talk about trades and we talk to other managers, but that’s very difficult,” said Murray. “As I talk to different teams, even teams that want to make something happen, I have a tough time. Getting equal value at equal money is difficult.”
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.
Blues re-sign Jaroslav Halak and Cam Janssen
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News on July 6th, 2010
Sportsnet.ca: The St. Louis Blues have locked up goalie Jaroslav Halak for 4 years, and $15 million.
He’ll make $2.75 next year, $3.5 million in 2011-12, $4.25 in 2012-13 and $4.5 million in 2013-14. It works out to a cap hit of $3.75 million.
Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: The Blues avoided salary arbitration with Cam Janssen, signing him to a 1 year, $600,000 deal. It should be made official later today that Carlo Colaiacovo signs a 2 year extension.
Are the Kings interested in Gagne and others? Modano has 4 options … Not much going on for Frolov
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on July 6th, 2010
Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: One report is saying the Los Angeles Kings are out of the running for Simon Gagne, and another says they are still interested. Things were quiet involving Tomas Kaberle over the weekend, but should pick up this week.
Helene Elliott of the LA Times: Elliott wonders how the Kings can become more attractive to free agents. Drew Doughty, Jack Johnson and Wayne Simmonds will be free agents soon, and will they want to re-sign with a team that can’t draw top free agents? The Kings may have to go the trade route to fill some holes in their roster. If the Devils sign Kovalchuk, they’ll have to clear out some salary. Brian Rolston could be available, but he’s 37 and has a $5.062 cap hit. Tomas Kaberle is an option but the Leafs probably want prospects and picks (nope … they’d like a top 6 forward, maybe a Wayne Simmonds or Dustin Brown). The Kings like Simon Gagne, and the Flames may deal Robyn Regehr. Marc Savard could fit but the Kings may not be on the 5 team list Savard has.
Pierre LeBrun via Twitter: Alexander Frolov hasn’t received much interest, other than the Rangers doing some brief tire kicking.
Jeremy Rutherford via Twitter: A “good-faith” move by Jaroslav Halak by not filing for salary arbitration.
Dmitry Chesnokov via Twitter: Evgeni Nabokov couldn’t agree on a contract with SKA St. Petersburgh.
Ansar Khan of MLive: The Detroit Red Wings are close to signing 3 of their restricted free agents to 1 year contracts: Patrick Eaves, Drew Miller and Derek Meech. GM Ken Holland isn’t close to signing Justin Abdelkader and Darren Helm, both could get long-term deals later on in the summer though.
John Shannon via Twitter: The Detroit Red Wings and 3 other teams are interested in Mike Modano.
David Haugh of the Chicago Tribune: Mike Modano hasn’t heard from the Chicago Blackhawks, but they could be an option for him as they are looking for some 3rd/4th line depth (cost friendly depth). “I’d like to see what kind of wiggle room they have left under the salary cap, if they can fill that third- or fourth-line void and see how I would fit in with those guys,” said Modano. “They have a great nucleus of kids. So there is a lot of interest there. Obviously, coming off the type of year they’ve had there’s a lot of excitement for anybody who has Chicago on their list of options.”
Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe: Blake Wheeler filed for arbitration yesterday, but Wheeler’s agent plans on working hard to get a deal done. They haven’t had much discussion with GM Peter Chiarelli as he’s been busy with the draft and free agency. Mark Stuart didn’t file for arbitration as he and Bruins are close to a 1-year extension. Boston re-signed both Nathan McIver and Nolan Schaefer.
Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Anaheim Ducks defenseman James Wisniewski filed for salary arbitration yesterday, but after the meeting his agent and GM Bob Murray last week, they appear to be on the “same page”. More discussions should take place before their arbitration meeting which would be between July 20th and August 5th.
Bruins trading for the 4th overall pick? Weiss not getting traded?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on June 18th, 2010
- Brandon Worley of the NBCsports.com: I’m shaking my ahead over this one, as there seems to be many holes. According to Worley’s ‘reliable source’, the Boston Bruins would send Marc Savard, RFA Blake Wheeler, and the 15th overall pick to the Columbus Blue Jackets for the 4th overall pick. Oh yeah, Savard also has a no-trade clause. It isn’t for certain that the Bruins are offering the 15th pick.
- Steve Gorten of the Sun Sentinel: The Florida Panthers have talked to Oilers and Bruins about moving up in the draft with no luck. Teams have also been calling them about their 3rd overall pick. They are still unsure of who’d they take if they keep the pick. The Panthers may not be looking to trade Stephen Weiss, if they did, their number one center would be Steven Reinprecht followed by Shawn Matthias. Weiss also makes a reasonable $3.1 million.
- Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette: Canadiens GM Gauthier conceded that part of the decision to trade Halak was for salary cap reason. What was Halak looking to sign for? Gauthier doesn’t know as the 2 sides never talked.
- Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: A reader asks if the Penguins would consider trading the rights to Sergei Gonchar before July 1st. Molinari writes that Shero probably wouldn’t do that until he was completely convinced that he couldn’t re-sign Gonchar.
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: It doesn’t appear that Matt Cooke and the Pittsburgh Penguins are close to coming to a deal. Talks between Andy Sutton and the Ottawa Senators are moving along slowly as the team attempts to keep Anton Volchekov in town. Things are slow for Matt Cullen as well. The New York Rangers have not talked to Ollie Jokinen at all. Jokinen wants to stay in the NHL and not go to the KHL.
- Curtis Zupke of the OC Register: Scott Niedermayer’s agent has said “It’s probably Anaheim or nothing”.
- Chraig Custance of the Sporting News: So it appears that UFA Chris Mason is done in St. Louis with the Halak deal. Mason’s agent offers up teams that could be looking for a starting goalie … “There could be surprises,” he said. “With Steve Yzerman going into Tampa, does he think he needs to make a change there? San Jose, do they make a change? What does Philadelphia do? It could be there are no jobs and there could be five jobs.”
- Elliotte Freidman via Twitter: Nothing new on the New Jersey Devils-Paul Martin talks.
- Michael Russo Star Tribune: Minnesota Wild GM Chuck Fletcher thinks the team will try and go the trade route to improve his team rather than go the free agent route as it isn’t the greatest. The Wild are looking for top-6 forward, mainly a #2 center. They have some depth on the blueline that they might be able to use to acquire a forward. Brent Burns and goalie Josh Harding, as well as their 1st round pick could all be in play.
Montreal Canadiens trade Jaroslav Halak to the St. Louis Blues
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Trades on June 17th, 2010
The Montreal Canadiens have traded their playoff hero, Jaroslav Halak, to the St. Louis Blues for forwards Lars Eller and Ian Schultz.
The 25-year old Halak is a restricted free agent, and the Canadiens decided that Carey Price (also a RFA) will be their goaltender of the future. Last season, Halak posted a 26-13-5 record with a 2.40 GAA and .924 SV%. with 5 shutouts. It was his playoff performance that I thought would make him the Canadiens goalie of the future, after leading the team to upsets over the Penguins and Capitals.
It’s been rumored for months that the Blues have been unsure about their future goalie. They were in talks Chris Mason, but he is turning 34, and was reportedly looking for in the $4 million neighborhood. It appears now that he’ll hit the open market. The two teams have been linked in the past to either a Halak or Price trade.
The Canadiens get back 2 young forwards. Eller was the 13th overall pick in 2007 by the Blues, and was one of their top prospects. He made his NHL debut this past season, recording 2 goals in 7 games. For Peoria Riverman in the AHL, he had 18 goals and 39 assists, with 84 PIMs in 70 games. Schultz was a 3rd round pick in 2008, and has spent the last 4 seasons with the Calgary Hitman.
I’m a little surprised they decided to go with Price over Halak, but more surprised by the timing of it. I thought the Canadiens would hold off until at least draft day to pull something off.
Kaberle trade talk heating up … Spezza for the 4th pick? New GMs looking to make moves?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on June 9th, 2010
- Elliotte Friedman of CBC: The Columbus Blue Jackets may be making a stronger push next season to make the playoffs, and could be kicking around the idea of trading their 4th overall draft pick. The Blue Jackets still need to find a center for Rick Nash, and Friedman wonders if they’d consider taking on Jason Spezza’s contract. Michael Leighton may be getting a 3 year contract offer from the Flyers, Friedman doesn’t think it would be for more than $1.5 million. The Florida Panthers may take a crack at Tomas Kaberle, Nathan Horton is a Burke type player.
- John Vogl of the Buffalo News: Sabres GM Darcy Reiger did not want to talk about the rumor that they may be interested in Tomas Kaberle. The Sabres could use a power-play quarterback, and the Leafs could use some scoring. Two players that have to mentioned because of their subpar playoff performances are Tim Connolly and Drew Stafford. There are a few things that instantly pop in to my mind on this; would Burke trade his ‘all star’ dman to a division rival? Both are not ‘Burke’ type players (no toughness). Connolly is making $4.5 million in the last year of his contract and is one hit away from his carrier being over, Stafford hasn’t lived up to his offensive talents the past 2 seasons (34 pts in 71 games this past season, 45 pts in 79 games in 2008-09).
- Michael Traikos in the Montreal Gazette: Even though he loses his no-trade clause for the summer (starting at the Draft) his agent Rick Curran believes Tomas Kaberle still has a clout on where he could end up. “As of the draft, we don’t have a no-trade (clause),” agent Rick Curran said. “But it’s almost effectively a no-trade, because unless Tomas wants to go there most general managers that I’m familiar with are not giving up asset value for a one-year player who may not even want to come to my team. Especially with what Brian wants in return.” It’s being reported that at least 4 teams have inquired about Kaberle; Anaheim, Buffalo, Columbus, and New Jersey.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: With such a weak free agent class, GMs have been more involved with trade talks (salary cap issues also play a big part). Teams with new GMs may be looking to make an early impression as well. Dale Tallon in Florida would like to make some moves, possibly trading Nathan Horton ($4 million cap hit until 2013) and Rostislav Olesz ($3.125 through 2014), but teams would rather have Stephen Weiss and Keith Ballard. Steve Yzerman may make a pitch for Carey Price or Jaroslav Halak. The Oilers would like to move Shawn Horcoff ($5.5 million through 2015) and Sheldon Souray ($5.4 through 2012).
- Bryan Mullen of the Tennessean: Predators GM David Poile thinks it’s going to really tough to re-sign Dan Hamhuis, “I think it’s going to be very difficult,” Poile said. “But I’d like to continue having conversations this week and possibly reach out to Dan next week before we take our final position.” Hamhuis’ agent has said that talks have been positive and ongoing. If they are not able to re-sign Hamhuis, they may look to re-sign Denis Grebeshkov and/or UFA Francis Bouillon. Jonathon Blum or Ryan Ellis may be rushed a little a quicker than they originally wanted. The Predators are trying to lock up Patrick Hornqvist, but salary is hard to determine after 2 goals in 08-09, and 30 last season.
- Tarik El-Bashir via Twitter: The Washington Capitals and Eric Fehr are talking a multi-year deal.
- Ryan Kennedy of the Hockey News: 2010 NHL Draft prospect, Kiril Kabanov, is better known for his off-ice antics than his on-ice talent has seen is stock plummet into the 2nd or 3rd round instead of top 5-10 pick. He’s had issues with the KHL, his QMJHL junior team (Moncton) and the Russian U-18 team, and now must find a new agent, 2 weeks before the draft. JP Barry has decided to move as “It just wasn’t a fit”. George Malik of MLive: Malik notes that Neate Sager of Yahoo, and Bruce Ciski of Fanhouse, think that Red Wings could still be interested in Kabanov, but not in the 1st round.
Kovalchuk offered $14 million per season? Flyers may not re-sign Leighten … Would the Bruins trade Bergeron?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on June 7th, 2010
- Sport-Express.ru: The SKA St. Petersburg reportedly have increased their offer to Ilya Kovalchuk to 3 years and $42 million. It was reported that they previously offered Kovalchuk 3 years and $30 million.
- Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun: Despite helping take the Philadelphia Flyers to game 6 of the Stanley Cup finals (after filling in for Brian Boucher part way through the playoffs … and he may not get the game 6 start), it might not gaurantee that goalie Michael Leighton will re-sign with the Flyers. They may think he’s “a one-trick pony on a magical ride”, and look towards a Turco, Mason, Nabokov, Halak or Price.
- Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe: One option the Bruins have in their quest to find a scoring winger or two, is to consider trading Patrice Bergeron, especially if the Oilers draft Taylor Hall. If the Bruins were to trade him, they would still have a solid one-two punch of Marc Savard and David Krejci, and possibly Tyler Seguin down the middle. Bergeron is a UFA at the end of next season, and is making $4.25 next season, and would be looking for a raise. He has a no-trade clause that kicks in July 1st.
- TSN: Contract talks between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Nikolai Kulemin have hit a wall. It was reported earlier that Kulemin is looking for at least $3 million per season deal. He recorded 36 points in 78 games last season. Burke told AM 640, “While they can say: ‘he was on your first line last year,’ there is no one who would say Nikolai Kulemin is a first line left winger. He’s a first line left winger by default because we did not have a very good team. I’m not paying for someone who gets the position by default.”
- Mark Everson of the NY Post: Craig MacTavish and Mike Keenan appear to be out of the running for the head coaching vacancy in New Jersey. The leading candidates are John MacLean and Michel Therrien, other options are Ken Hitchcock, Kirk Muller, and Guy Boucher. Boucher was offered the coaching position in Columbus.
- Bob McKenzie of TSN: The Blue Jackets would like an answer from Guy Boucher if he wants the head coaching position by Tuesday.
Salary cap could increase $2 million which would the Penguins and others … James Wisniewski may seek #2 Dman money and/or be traded … NHL Draft Rumors
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 29th, 2010
- Shelly Anderson of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: The Pittsburgh Penguins and the rest of the league received some good news in that according to Gary Bettman, the salary cap could be going up by about $2 million from it’s current $56.8 million. This might make it a bit easier for the Penguins to re-sign Sergei Gonchar and Matt Cooke. GM Ray Shero said that Ruslan Fedotenko won’t be back, and that they are talking to Jay McKee, but they might go a different direction. Bill Gurein wants to play next year, but the Pens have to see if he fits in to their plans. No decision has been made on whether they want to bring Alexei Ponikarovsky back or not.
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: The Anaheim Ducks will retain the negotiating rights with James Wisniewski by offering him a qualifying offer before the June 25th cut off date. Wisniewski may be looking for a nice raise on his one-year, $2.75 million deal he signed last year. He was 20th in ice time and may be seeking #2 Dman money. If that is the case, look for the Ducks to continue to try and trade him (at the deadline they were trying to move him). Ducks GM Bob Murray has yet to meet with Saku Koivu or his agent. Murray has talked to the agent of Sheldon Brookbank.
- Damian Cristodero of the St. Petersburgh Times: They can’t talk contract extension until after July 1st, but Lightning GM Steve Yzerman plans to start conversations with Steven Stamkos. Stamkos agent told the paper he’d “welcome” the discussion.
- Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette: Canadiens GM Pierre Gauthier said there won’t be a major overhaul of the club. The Canadiens have about 11 million to sign 7 players. They’ll look to trade both Kostitsyn’s but that could be difficult. The 6’5″ Ryan O’Byrne could also be trade bait. Gauthier and Tomas Plekanec’s agent have talked but no offer has been made, and it’s doubtful the Canadiens will overpay for him. He’s rumored to be after $5 million a season. Jaroslav Halak has arbitration rights, and has put up numbers similar to goalies in the $4-5 million range.
- Gare Joyce of ESPN: The Florida Panthers might be willing to trade down from their #3 draft slot. One Eastern Conference GM said he thinks draft prospect, Jack Campbell, could be a top-10 pick. Kirill Kabanov’s draft stock continues to be surrounded by red flags. One top scout said they won’t interview him, therefore won’t draft him. He met with 17 teams. Brett Connolly who’s draft slot has been in question due battling an injury all season (hip injury), survived the testing and looked good. He’s projected as a top-10 pick, possible a top-5 if further medical tests are good.
More on the Canadiens … Ryan and Ducks talking … Marleau to Toronto? Jacob Markstrom coming to North America?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 26th, 2010
- Sean Gordon of the Globe and Mail: The Montreal Canadiens will have $13-14 million to fill out 9 roster spots. That is not a lot play when players like Tomas Plekanec, Jaroslav Halak and/or Carey Price are due for raises, if they want to keep them. Gordon thinks Halak’s price could be in the $3.55 million range, similar to Kari Lehtonen. Halak doesn’t want to think hockey right now, saying he needs a vacation. GM Pierre Gauthier will consider all options involving both goalies, even if it won’t be popular with fans. Signing Dominic Moore could be a priority for the team. The Habs will probably look to deal Roman Hamrlik, and the Kostitsyn brothers this summer.
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Bobby Ryan’s agent, Don Meehan, confirmed yesterday that he’s had recent talks with the Anaheim Ducks regarding a contract extension, and expects more meetings in the upcoming weeks. It doesn’t sound like a deal will happen soon, but both sides appear to want to get something worked out over the summer.
- Jeff Blair of the Globe and Mail: Do Globe and Mail writers require a ‘comment quota’ they need to reach each month? The article title says it all “Marleau to Toronto makes sense” … It doesn’t make sense if Marleau wants to win a cup soon. Sure the Leafs would probably love to have this guy, but don’t count on it happening.
- George Richards of the Miami Herald: Panthers GM Dale Tallon met with top goalie prospect Jacob Markstrom about coming over to North America next season. If/when he’s signed, they’d ideally like him to get some action in the AHL to get adjusted to the North American style of play. The Panthers still have Tomas Vokoun and Scott Clemmensen under contract, but if a taker could be found for Vokoun, I’d be surprised if they didn’t move him and have Markstrom battle for the #1 spot.
- Columbus Dispatch: One of the top candidates for the Columbus Blue Jackets head coach position, may also now be a top contender for the Tampa Bay Lightning position. Newly hired GM Steve Yzerman and Kevin Dineen have a strong friendship dating back years. The Blue Jackets are still waiting to meet with Guy Boucher of the AHL Hamilton Bulldogs, who play game 7 tonight.
Wings won’t do anything until Lidstrom decides what he’s doing … Horton trade bait … What will the Canadiens do now?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 25th, 2010
- George Malik of MLive: Red Wings GM Ken Holland told MLive that they can’t re-sign Tomas Holmstrom, Todd Bertuzzi, or any of their 5 RFAs before they hear if Nicklas Lidstrom will be back next season or not. Lidstrom has told the them he’ll let them know in a couple weeks. It doesn’t look like Brett Lebda, Jason Williams, and Doug Janik will be back. Derek Meech should get a qualifying offer from them.
- Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe: Panthers GM Dale Tallon isn’t a fan of players who aren’t willing to pay the price, which means that Nathan Horton could be on his way out, as he known to not have a good work ethic. A Bruin, who has friends on the Panthers has been told that Norton has “No heartbeat”. “We weeded out people who didn’t want to pay the price,” Tallon said. “If you don’t want to pay the price and you don’t want to be involved here, you’re not going to be here.” The Bruins have limited funds available to sign free agents, but could target Flyers winger, Aaron Asham.
- Lyle Richardson of Fox Sports: The Montreal Canadiens currently have 14 players locked up for about $45.7 million. Tomas Plekanec is a UFA and it might take around $5 million to re-sign him. Their biggest off-season situation is obviously what to do with Jaroslav Halak and Carey Price. Halak has shown that he can the #1, but Price could be the future star. RFAs Maxim Lapierre, Tom Pyatt, and Benoit Pouliot should be back. Glen Metropolit, Marc-Andre Bergeron, and Paul Mara probably won’t be back. Halak playoff performance may get himself a contract offer from the Canadiens, maybe in the $3 million range. To clear up some salary space, they may try to get rid of Andrei Kostitsyn (1 year, $3.25 million) and Roman Hamrlik (1 year, $5.5 million), but that could be difficult. One option would be for the Canadiens to package one of them with Carey Price. Buying George Laraque out will free up $1 million. Andrei Markov will be a free agent after next year, and could be shopped around if they think he’ll be out of their price range ($7 million?) or not in their long term plans.
- Mark Purdy of the San Jose Mercury News: It is possible that the Sharks could re-sign both Patrick Marleau and Evgeni Nabokov, but odds are they will only go after 1. Joe Pavelski and Devin Setoguchi will be getting pay increases, and cap space will be disappearing. If they let Nabokov go, they could go with Thomas Greiss and minor leaguer Alex Stalock, or look to bring in a less expensive goalie to challenge for the #1 spot.
- Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer: Carolina Hurricanes majority owner Peter Karmanos Jr. has hired a New York investment firm to help him find a local buyer for a 49% stake in the team. Karmanos former co-owner, Thomas Thewes, passed away a few years ago, he owned the 49% of the team.
Laperriere back soon, Carter unlikely … Offer Sheets out there? Boychuk now a UFA … Sens wanted Cammalleri, got Kovalev
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 18th, 2010
- Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: Flyers winger Ian Laperriere practiced with the team yesterday, and could return later on in the series. Laperriere has been out since April 22nd with a brain bruise and concussion. Jeff Carter skated for the first time since suffering a broken foot on April 20th, though it’s unlikely he’ll be able to return this series.
- Craig Custance of the Sporting News: Will there be any offer sheets or deals similar to last years Bruins-Leafs trade for Phil Kessel? Custance offers a few names that might get some interest: Jaroslav Halak or Carey Price, Joe Pavelski, and Bobby Ryan. I think Pavelski and Ryan will both be re-signed by the the Sharks and Ducks. Price or Halak could be dealt at the draft, with Price the more likely candidate in my opinion.
- Helene St. James of hte Detroit Free Press: Nicklas Lidstrom will let the Detroit Red Wings know in the next few weeks if he will play next season, or retire. “Nick’s told me he’ll give me lots of time prior to July 1 when free agency starts,” Holland said. “I met with him last week, and we talked about the team, and he said he’d give me lots of time before July 1 with his decision.”
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Not much info coming out of Anaheim or the Bobby Ryan camp regarding the RFA. The Ducks will be looking to lock up Ryan long term, but at what cost? Corey Perry and Ryan Getzlaf both signed for around $5.3 million a season, 2 years ago. They would probably like to sign Ryan at a number below what Perry and Getzlaf got.
- Joe Haggerty of CSNNE: Bruins defenseman Johnny Boychuk would have been a restricted free agent this off-season, but due to the fact that he’s played under 80 games, and is 26-years old, he is now a group 6 unrestricted free agent.
- Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: Scott Arniel and Kevin Dineen have been called back for a 2nd interview by the Columbus Blue Jackets for their vacant head coaching position. Red Wings assistant coach, Paul MacLean, should find out today if he’s getting a call back for another interview. Last seasons interim coach, Claude Noel, is still considered a strong candidate even though he won’t have a second interview since they are familar with him.
- Wayne Scanlan of the Ottawa Citizen: At the beginning of last years free agent period, Senators GM Bryan Murray offered Mike Cammalleri a 4 year, $22 million ($5.5 mill. a year) deal. Cammalleri eventually took 5 years and $30 million ($6 mill. a year), and never asked Ottawa if they’d increase their offer. On the bright side Senators fans, that money was used on Alex Kovalev’s 2 year, $10 million deal.
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