Posts Tagged Keith Ballard
Parise not wanting to stay in New Jersey pure speculation … Smith odd may out in TB … Should Canucks move Ballard instead of Bieksa?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on January 3rd, 2011
- Kevin Paul Dupont of the Boston Globe: Dupont writes that Zach Parise “has no aspirations to remain in New Jersey” and that if Lamoriello looks to trade him, he might look for “three first-round picks, a roster player, and a prospect”
- Tom Gulitti of the Bergon Record: Gulitti talked to Parise about the above comments,
“I don’t know where they get that info.”
“Who is talking, I have no idea. I’ve never told anyone one way or another. It’s all speculation.”
When asked about re-signing with the Devils,
“Of course, you play in a place and you get drafted by them and you play there your whole career and you’d love to play in one spot for your whole career,” he said. “So, we’ll see what happens, I guess. I do like playing here and I like living here and everything. We’ll see how all that stuff turns out, but ideally you’d like to stay.”
No talks have taken place yet.
- Damian Cristodero of the St. Petersberg Times: The Lightning felt trading for Dwayne Roloson was safer than signing Evgeni Nabokov. The Lightning currently have 3 goalies in Roloson, Dan Ellis and Mike Smith. Once Smith recovers from his knee injury, he could be likely candidate to be traded has he’s in the last year of his deal.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Rumors continue that Kevin Bieksa will be traded once Sami Salo returns, but Matheson wonders if the Canucks should be shopping Keith Ballard instead. Ballard is making $4 million a year on the 3rd pairing and Bieksa is having a good year.
- Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: Mike Commodore has been a healthy scratch for the Blue Jackets for 6 of the last 7 games. He’s their highest paid defenseman, and has only played in 20 of the teams 39 games this season.
20 game mark key for Lou … Wang ordered Gordon firing … Canadiens could add a star player … Stars face troubles in trying to re-sign Richards
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on November 17th, 2010
- Rich Chere of the Star-Ledger: Lou Lamoriello will evaluate the New Jersey Devils after the 20 games mark, they’ve played 18 games so far. Firing MacLean is an option, or MacLean and assistant coach Larry Robinson switching roles. Some of the Devils struggles is due to the fact that 6 of their starting 18 players are injured.
- Jimmy Murphy via twitter: Murphy was told that the Scott Gordon firing order came down from Charles Wang, GM Garth Snow reluctantly fired him.
- Eric Engels of CTV.ca: If Andrei Markov is placed on the LTIR, the Canadiens could use his pro-rated $5.75 million to bring in a “star-calibre” player or a couple “good” players. Markov is in the final year of his 4 year contract with the Canadiens, and has suffered 4 major lower-body injuries, which could influence contract discussions between the 2 sides.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: The Dallas Stars are facing hurdles in trying to re-sign Brad Richards. The team is still looking for new owners and are controlled by the lenders. Heika doesn’t think the Stars want to go past 5 years. The Stars have back-loaded some contract to keep this payroll lower this year in hopes of attracting a new owner. If they have to stay on the $45 million self imposed cap next season, it will be difficult to keep Richards.
- Iain MacIntyre of the Vancouver Sun: Keith Ballard will be back in the lineup when the Canucks face the Penguins. Dan Hamhuis didn’t practice yesterday but hopes to play. Andrew Alberts could be a healthy scratch.
- Chris Kuc via twitter: Marty Turco will be in the net for the Blackhawks tonight.
- Randy Sportak of the Calgary Sun: Matt Stajan started both games over the weekend on the 4th line, though he eventually was moved up. He has only 1 goal in his last 32 games, though he has 10 points in 14 games this season.
- Mark Whicker of the OC Register: Cam Fowler has switched his number to #4 from #54.
Markov could go under the knife again … Should Sharks trade Setoguchi? Anderson facing shots
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on November 15th, 2010
- Ranaud Lavoie (RDS) via twitter: Doctors haven’t ruled out that Canadiens defenseman Andrei Markov might have to have surgery again. More will known later this week.
- Craig Custance via twitter: Bob Hartley hasn’t been contacted by the Islanders about coaching the team.
- Jim Gintonio of the Arizona Republic: The Phoenix Coyotes are in “holding pattern” with UFAs Ilya Bryzgalov, Ed Jovanovski, Radim Vrbata, Scottie Upshall and Vernon Fiddler, as the ownership issue is still not solved.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Matheson thinks the Sharks should trade Devin Setoguchi for a puck moving defenseman. Senators GM Bryan Murray says he’s called 14 or 15 teams about possible trades, response was always ‘No, not really.’
- Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: If the Flyers sign Ville Leino, “the Flyers near or above the cap – and that’s for just 19 players on their 22- or 23-player roster for 2011-12.” The Flyers may have to trade one of their high-priced defensemen. Leino, “I like being here; it’s a good fit and I play with good players, so hopefully we get something done.”
- Dan Murphy via twitter: Canucks coach Alain Vigneault says that Keith Ballard is behind in his conditioning due to his off-season surgery and concussion. Could be in the lineup for the Canucks against Pittsburgh.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Avalanche goalie Craig Anderson faced shots today for the first time since injuring his knee 3 weeks ago.
- Chris Johnston via twitter: JS Giguere will start in net for the Leafs tomorrow night against the Predators.
‘Coaches Challenge’ shevled … Some starting goalies and lineup notes for Leafs, Senators, Canucks and Capitals
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on November 9th, 2010
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Dale Tallon’s ‘coaches challenge’ has been shelved at the GM meetings.
- James Mirtle via twitter: JS Giguere will start tonight. Korbinian Holzer remains in the lineup, Christian Hansen and Carl Gunnarson are out. Erik Erlendsson via twitter: Dan Ellis is starting for the Lightning tonight.
- CP in the Hockey News: Dan Hamhuis will be in the lineup for the Canucks, Keith Ballard will be a healthy scratch.
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Johan Hedberg has been told he’ll be starting on Wednesday. Brodeur was holding out hope. Brian Rolston practiced today and could return on Wednesday.
- Adam Proteau via twitter: Proteau thinks that Brooks Laich would be a bigger loss to the Washington Capitals than Alexander Semin.
- Ian Mendes via twitter: Brian Elliott will be in the net for the Ottawa Senators. Milan Michalek will be in the lineup, Mike Fisher missed practiced but is expected to go.
- Katie Carrera via twitter: Michal Neurvirth will start for the Capitals, Bruce Boudreau “thinks” Brooks Laich will play, and Tom Poti is a “we’ll see”.
- Chris Kuc via twitter: Chicago Blackhawks center David Bolland said he won’t play tomorrow night.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Montreal’s Dustin Boyd clears waivers. Boston’s Brian McGratton clears waivers.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Sebastien Caron and Traktor (KHL) terminate contract, mutually agreed.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: SKA (KHL) were negotiating with Bob Hartley to coach the team, but it didn’t work out.
Stamkos and Weber to talk extensions with their respective clubs … Carter and Leino contracts next for Flyers? Mitchell out 4-6 weeks … More injury updates
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on November 9th, 2010
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: Steven Stamkos’s agent, Don Meehan, is expected to meet with Lightning GM Steve Yzerman today to discuss contract extension. The Nashville Predators continue to talk with Don Meehan about a contract extension for Shea Weber. Former Nordiques owner Marcel Aubut is still trying to get an arena built to bring the Nordiques back Quebec City. The Red Wings haven’t begun contract talks with soon to be UFA goalie, Jimmy Howard.
- Rich Hammond of LA Kings Insider: The LA Kings have lost Willie Mitchell for 4-6 weeks with a fractured wrist (we noted yesterday that initial x-rays didn’t detect the fracture, an MRI was done yesterday). Alexei Ponikarovsky will be out 4 weeks with a broken finger.
- Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: The Philadelphia Flyers have signed the 22-year old Claude Giroux to a 3 year contract extension. He’ll have cap hit of $3.75 million, earning $2.75 million in 2011-12, $3.5 million in 2012-13, and $5 million in 2013-14. GM Paul Holmgren is also working on signing Jeff Carter and Ville Leino. Bob McKenzie via twitter: Now that Claude Giroux is looked up for the next 3 years, look for the Flyers to try to sign Jeff Carter to a long-term extension.
- Erik Erlendsson of the Tampa Tribune: Tampa Bay Lightning left winger Simon Gagne continues to be out with a strained neck (a concussion has been ruled out). He hasn’t been cleared for skating yet, has been riding a stationary bike.
- Mike Zeisberger of the Toronto Sun: The Toronto media continues to bring up Ron Wilson’s firing again as the team has 1 regulation win in the last 9 games.
“I don’t even talk to Brian (Burke) about stuff like this,” he said. “It suddenly switched from Lindy Ruff to me overnight and it’s always coming out of Toronto. There is some coach in the league that we’re talking about and I get asked not just about my own situation, but every other coach who is losing a couple of games and it always seems to come out of Toronto, not from the city where the coach is struggling a little bit.”
- Adrian Dater via twitter: Colorado Avalanche injury update. Craig Anderson skated but is still a week or two away from returning. Adam Foote skated but is still out indefinetly. Kyle Cumiskey is also out indefinitely, while Ryan Wilson is out another week.
- Frank Seravalli of the Philadelphia Inquirer: The Flyers have fired their AHL (Adirondack Phantoms) coach Greg Gilbert. The Phantoms are 2-10-1 and losers of 9 straight. Last week they sent their leading scorer Pat Maroon home. He could be traded or loaned to another team today when Holmgren meets with other GM’s at the general managers meetings, with a team source saying the Lightning could be the leading candidate.
- Andy Strickland of True Hockey: Rumors have surfaced that the Montreal Canadiens are clearing cap space, with the possibility of signing Bill Guerin. Guerin hasn’t heard from GM Pierre Gauthier at all. News on what Guerin plans on doing appears to still be weeks away. If he were to sign somewhere, it would still take a couple weeks to get in game shape. Guerin is also talking to MSG and VS regarding some TV work.
- Joe Haggerty of CSNNE: David Krejci never lost consciousness when he suffered his “moderate” concussion, he’ll be reevaluated today, and will take an exertion test later this week. Krejci will likely be out 10-14 days.
- Bucky Gleason of the Buffalo News: Buffalo Sabres all-star goalie Ryan Miller returned to practice yesterday and should be back either Wednesday or Thursday, with Thursday being more likely according to coach Ruff. Craig Rivet is battling the flu. Nathan Gerbe took part in no-contact drills as he recovers from a broken jaw.
- Matthew Sekeres of the Globe and Mail: The Vancouver Canucks are expected to get defenseman Dan Hamhuis back tonight after missing the last 8 games with a foot injury. Keith Ballard recently returned from a concussion but has been relatively ineffective. Andrew Alberts and Aaron Rome have filled in well. Sami Salo is recovering ahead of schedule so far, and could return to the lineup next month. Iain MacIntyre of the Vancouver Sun: MacIntyre thinks that if Hamhuis returns, Ballard should sit over Rome.
Parise visits doctors today … Ballard to return tonight? 10 teams looking for Dmen … New Leaf lines … Langkow’s return 50-50?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on November 1st, 2010
- Tom Gulitti of the Bergon Record: Zach Parise will see a doctor today to find out how serious his lower body injury is. Parise said he originally suffered the injury in his summer training while skating. “It’s been bothering me,” he told me. “I know exactly when I hurt it. I hurt it in August and it’s been bothering me. It hasn’t gone away. I kind of hurt it every game.”
- Brad Ziemer of the Vancouver Sun: Keith Ballard made it through weekend practices with the Vancouver Canucks and could return Monday night. He will likely be a game time decision according to Vigneault. Dan Hamhuis skated for 20 minutes yesterday but still felt some discomfort in his foot. Ryan Parent left yesterday’s practice early with a groin strain.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: Daniel Briere has a hearing via conference call scheduled for today at 10am regarding his stick work to the head on Saturday night (video of incident can be seen in yesterday’s post). Briere has 8 instances since 2005 where he received a warning, fine or suspension according to John Shannon.
- Bruce Garrioch in the Toronto Sun: There may be as many as 10 teams looking for defenseman, including the Senators, Lightning, Kings and Sharks. The Senators are dangling Brian Lee. The Ducks have said they’d trade Paul Mara. The Oilers have Sheldon Souray and his broken hand. Kevin Bieksa will likely become available by the Canucks at some point when their defensive corps gets healthy. The city of Glendale and Matthew Hulsizer are still working on the details of the lease. Glendale will cover some of the losses from the Coyotes but only if he won’t move the team. If he moves the team within 5 years, they’ll want their money back. The Dallas Stars are averaging under 14,000 fans a game and may have to deal Brad Richards before the deadline; “They might have to do it to save cash, but that just doesn’t make sense to me,” said one league executive. “They’ve got a chance to have a pretty good team. They should be trying to add, not subtract.” The New Jersey Devils have been fielding calls regarding Patrick Elias, but he has a no-movement clause with 2 years left on his contract and would likely want to stay with the Devils. The Phoenix Coyotes are trying to move Petr Prucha and his $1.1 million salary.
- Eric Francis of the Calgary Sun: It may be 50-50 chance that Calgary Flames center Daymond Langkow is able to return from a neck injury he sustained last year. He was shut down last week after feeling numbness below the waist during an intensive workout.
- Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun: The Maple Leafs are looking for some more scoring from the lineup, have juggled the lines yesterday at practice. Mike Brown – Kris Versteeg – Tim Brent, Luca Caputi – Phil Kessel – Tyler Bozak, Mikhail and Nikolai Kulemin – Clarke MacArthur – Grabovski, and Fredrik Sjostrom – Colton Orr – Christian Hanson.
- Eric Francis in the Toronto Sun: The Calgary Flames could move Ian White at some point this season. White will be a UFA at season’s end, with the signing of Mark Giordano to a long term deal and the emergence of TJ Brodie, White could be expendable if they are out of the playoff race.
- Jesse Spector via twitter: No truth to the rumor of Mats Zuccarello leaving the Rangers AHL team.
- Chip Alexander via twitter: Look for Justin Peters to get the start on Monday for the Carolina Hurricanes.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Evgeny Artyukhin passed his 2nd medicals with SKA and will make his debut tomorrow.
- Dan O’Neill of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: Carlo Colaiacovo’s return to the Blues lineup is not known after taking a hit from Jordan Tootoo last week. He’s still experience neck spasms and will have to undergo further tests.
Parise hurts knee, flies back to NJ … Lightning-Stamkos contract talk soon … Kings interested in Iginla … NHIC Hotstove and Briere sticking swinging videos
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Videos on October 31st, 2010
Rich Chere of the Star-Ledger: Zach Parise left last night’s game and returned to New Jersey with Lou Lamoriello after suffering a ‘lower-body’ injury. The extent of the injury is not known, but it could be a serious injury to his right knee. Parise was hit by Kyle Clifford late in the 2nd period.
Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: The Tampa Bay Lightning plan to meet with Steven Stamkos’s side in the next couple weeks regarding a contract extension. The Los Angeles Kings have already been drawing up different contract models for Drew Doughty. LeBrun thinks the Kings may be interested in Jarome Iginla if he becomes available this year. The Maple Leafs refuse to rush Nazem Kadria and called up Christian Hansen instead. Brendan Shanahan is looking to change the All-Star game in some way, but wouldn’t say what his ideas are (I have an idea, cancel it).
James Mirtle of the Globe and Mail: The Toronto Maple Leafs are searching for some secondary scoring. Teams are focusing on Phil Kessel (has still scored 7 goals) as his teammates struggle to find the back of the net (MacArthur started off hot but has cooled of late). Burke has said if he can add some scoring he will, he has $4 million in cap space. Hitting the rumor mill of potential players available this week are Jeff Carter, David Backes and Blake Wheeler.
Jason Botchford of the Vancouver Province: Keith Ballard skated with teammates for the first time yesterday. It was only a light workout with the team. A date hasn’t been set for his potential return from a ‘slight’ concussion.
Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Avalanche goalie Craig Anderson’s agent confirmed that his injury is not serious. The exact extent of the injury is not know, but he will not require surgery. It was first feared that he might have torn some ligaments in his knee.
Craig Custance of the Sporting News: Nashville Predators defenseman Ryan Suter, who’s been out since October 19th with a lower-body injury, expects to skate on Monday and could be close to returning.
Bruce Garrioch via twitter: Senators forward Milan Michalek will be out at least a week with tendinitis in his surgically repaired knee.
Jimmy Murphy via twitter: In the expansion era, after the first 6 games, Tim Thomas has the lowest GAA ever at 0.50. 2nd goalie ever to have 3 shutouts in first 6 games to start the season, Pascal Leclaire the other.
Hockey Night in Canada Hotstove: The Hotstove with Ron MacLean, Eric Francis, Mike Milbury & Pierre LeBrun
The NHL will most likely review Daniel Briere’s stick swing incident from last night, with a suspension likely.
Bolland out now for the Hawks? Hamhuis still can’t skate … No talks between Anderson-Avs yet … Fowler close to returning
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on October 30th, 2010
- Tim Sassone of the Daily Herald: Chicago Blackhawks center David Bolland did not return for the 3rd period last night. Bolland didn’t practice Thursday and Sassone wonders if Bolland’s surgically repaired back is acting up.
- Jason Botchford of the Vancouver Province: Dan Hamhuis lasted about 5 minutes trying to skate yesterday. He’s been out for 2 weeks, and a Monday return is unlikely. Keith Ballard is likely to return before Hamhuis now.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: There haven’t been any contract extension talks between Craig Anderson and the Colorado Avalanche. Dater thinks the Avs could be taking this approach, “Let’s wait and see how he performs again for a good portion of this year before we back up the money truck. Let’s keep that carrot dangling in front of him a while longer, and maybe get a win-win situation. The better he plays, the more money he knows he’ll make and the better he plays, the more we win hockey games.”
- Eric Stephen of the OC Register: Anaheim Ducks defenseman Cam Fowler practiced yesterday and said he’s close to returning from a broken nose and jammed neck. Fowler said he might be able to go today, and if not, may be next Wednesday.
- Jim Matheson via twitter: The Edmonton Oilers victory last night was the first regulation road win for them since December 11, 2009.
- George Sipple of the Detroit Free Press: Justin Abdelkader will return to the Red Wings line up tonight against the Predators. Abdelkader could replace Jiri Hudler or Mike Modano. He alternated with Hudler, Modano and Dan Cleary in practice yesterday. Jimmy Howard and Jonathan Ericsson are still out with back spasms.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Evgeny Artyukhin failed his SKA physical as he has heart problems, the team declined to sign him. He’ll be taking a more extensive medical, SKA will wait for those results.
- Chris Botta via twitter: Rick DiPietro will start for the Islanders tonight.
Drew Doughty may have concussion? Gretzky not going to KHL … Canucks keeping all Dmen? Lupul skating
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Videos on October 21st, 2010
- Rich Hammond of LA Kings Insider: LA Kings defenseman Drew Doughty suffered an upper-body injury in the 1st period of last night’s game. He played almost 7 minutes in the 1st period, was on the last in the final minute, but didn’t return for the 2nd. Helene Elliott says that the upper-body injury could be a possible concussion from a hit by Hurricanes forward, Eric Cole. JP Hoornstra reports that Doughty won’t accompany the team to Phoenix for tonight’s game. The NHL could review the hit as it might have been from the blind-side, and a little late.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: The reports coming out of Russia that Wayne Gretzky could be the next coach of SKA are not true. Gretzky sent LeBrun a text saying he’s not going to Russia to coach.
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: Kevin Bieksa had been on the rumor trade block for most of the summer, and it’s still possible that he could be moved once Sami Salo comes back, but … “We went into last year with nine defensemen, and at the end of the season, we didn’t have enough,” Gillis told ESPN.com in late September. “There’s a lot of time, and a lot of things can happen between now and when Sami is able to return.” Keith Ballard and Dan Hamhuis are both out and have missed 6 games combined.
- Eric Stephen via twitter: Anaheim Ducks forward Joffrey Lupul has begun light skating. He still has a long ways to go before he can return to game action.
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: Owen Nolan had been skating in San Jose, but now he’s headed to Switzerland to join Zurich. Nolan is going to show people that he can still play, and hopes to get a call from the NHL.
- Tom Reed and Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Blue Jackets: Columbus Blue Jackets forward Ethan Moreau suffered a broken hand when he blocked a shot from Paul Mara in the 2nd period last night. Mike Commodore’s left thumb is sprained and not broken as the fracture revealed in last week’s x-ray was an old one. He has been placed on the IR retroactive to Oct. 16th. Winger Jared Boll is at least a week away as he slowly recovers from back spasms.
Pavelec takes to the ice … Could the Kings be interested in Richards or Iginla if they become available? Pominville takes 1st step to returning
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Videos on October 20th, 2010
- Chris Vivlamore of the Atlanta Journal Constitution: Atlanta Thrashers goalie Ondrej Pavelec returned to practice yesterday for the first time since his collapse the other week. After many tests, it was determined he had a neurocardiogenic syncope episode, or in English, a fainting spell. When he banged his head off the ice, it gave him a concussion. What caused him to faint is still unknown. “They said there are so many reasons it could have happened, but they couldn’t find it. A lot of times it will never happen again. Hopefully, it never happens again.” No timetable is set for his return to game action, it will depend on how quickly he can get into game shape. Pavelec said it was the 4th concussion he’s suffered, 2 from soccer, 2 from hockey.
- Craig Custance of the Sporting News: Matt Green will likely return to the LA Kings lineup later this week. The Kings also have available salary cap room to add a big name player if they chose. If the Dallas Stars consider trading Brad Richards, the Kings could be interested. If Calgary wants to rebuild and Jarome Iginla becomes available, he could be an excellent fit in LA.
- Joe McDonald of ESPN Boston: Marc Savard skated for the 3rd time yesterday. “I’m obviously feeling better because I’m out skating,” Savard told ESPNBoston.com on Tuesday after his skate. “That’s good news, but I’m still definitely not 100 percent. I still have some issues, but a lot of them aren’t from the injury. My head isn’t screwed up after I work out right now. Obviously, there are other on-going issues.”
- Joanne Ireland of the Edmonton Journal: Edmonton Oilers coach Tom Renney is trying out some new line combinations. Ales Hemsky – Shawn Horcoff – Magnus Paajarvi, Dustin Penner – Sam Gagner – Jordan Eberle, and Taylor Hall – Andrew Cogliano – Gilbert Brule.
- Brad Ziemer of the Vancouver Sun: The Vancouver Canucks played last night without 2 of their key off-season acquisitions, Dan Hamhuis and Keith Ballard. Ballard missed his 2nd consecutive game after suffering a concussion on Friday, he didn’t make the trip with the team and won’t play tonight. X-rays were negative on Keith Ballard’s foot after blocking a shot on Sunday.
- John Vogl of the Buffalo News: Buffalo Sabres winger Jason Pominville said he never saw Niklas Hjalmarsson coming on the hit that gave him a concussion. Pominville took part in an off-ice, light workout yesterday for the first time since the injury. If he has no symptoms today, he’ll increase the workload slightly.
- Frank Seravalli of the Philadelphia Daily News: Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Matt Walker has yet to play a game for them since being acquired for Simon Gagne, and will be out 10-12 weeks after undergoing surgery on a bony impingement and a torn labrum in his right hip.
- Chris Vivlamore of the Atlanta Journal Constitiution: Thrashers defenseman Tobias Enstrom is already the teams leading scorer for a defenseman, and will become the clubs new ironman, playing in his 252nd consecutive game tonight. He hasn’t missed a game since joining the club in 2007-08.
Thornton’s new deal … Ballard to miss 3 games? Commodore has ‘chip fracture’ in hand … Bourque returning soon?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on October 17th, 2010
- David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News: The San Jose Sharks have locked up Joe Thornton for 3 more years for $21 million. It’s a $200,000 pay cut. Being only a 3 year deal, and not a longer term deal was a little surprising. Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Thornton’s contract breakdown: 2011-12 $7 million salary plus $1 million signing bonus. 2012-13 $6 million salary plus $1 million signing bonus. 2013-14 $6 million salary.
- Ian Walker via twitter: Vancouver Canucks defenseman Keith Ballard is out with a slight concussion.
- Ian Walker of the Vancouver Sun: Ballard missed last night’s game, and will likely miss the next 2. Winger Michael Samuelsson was dropped from the 1st line down to the 3rd line, Mason Raymond moved up to the 1st line.
- Mark Whicker of the OC Register: Andreas Lilja has his visa issues resolved and will join the team. Luca Sbisa has been sent to Syracuse of the AHL.
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Mike Commodore has a ‘chip fracture’ in his left hand, an injury he suffered in the first game this year.
- Roger Millions via twitter: There is a chance that Rene Bourque makes the trip with the Calgary Flames to Nashville. Detroit and Columbus.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning Stars: Fabian Brunnstrom cleared waivers and will likely be assigned to their minor league team. It’s possible that he remains there the rest of the season. He’ll have to pass through re-entry waivers.
Rangers lose Gaborik and Drury … Ballard leaves Canucks game … Souray makes AHL debut … Someone wearing #66
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News on October 16th, 2010
- Jesse Spector NY Daily News: The New York Rangers lost Marian Gaborik last night for 2-3 weeks with a separated shoulder after taking a hit from Colby Armstrong. Chris Drury was also injured last night in his first game back after a broken index finger as he broke the same finger, but in a different spot, he’ll be out 6 weeks. Vinny Prospal will have knee surgery on Tuesday, and will be out indefinitely. Erik Christensen is expected to be back in the lineup on Monday after sitting out last night’s game.
- Jason Botchford of the Vancouver Province: Vancouver Canucks defenseman Keith Ballard left last night’s game after taking a hit in the first, he may have hurt his shoulder or possibly a concussion.
- Sheldon Souray made his AHL debut last night in a 7-1 Hershey Bears victory, recording 1 assist and was a +3 with 2 PIMs.
- Erik Duhatschek of the Globe and Mail: Calgary Flames rookie TJ Brodie will be wearing the number 66 this season. That doesn’t seem right to me, it’s one of those rare numbers that shouldn’t be worn by just anyone. Duncan Keith averaged just over 32 minutes of ice time through the first 4 games.
- Chris Vivlamore of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution: The Atlanta Thrashers have waived 2004, 1oth overall draft pick, Boris Valabik. Thrashers fans may not want to see some of the other players they passed over to take Valabik, some guy named Mike Green, Travis Zajac, Andrej Meszaros (though many other teams passed on those guys as well).
Lou having problems moving high-priced forwards? Frolov to play with Gaborik? Players don’t like DeBoer? and more
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on September 17th, 2010
- Mark Everson of the NY Post: As the October 6th deadline for Lou Lamoriello to move some salary gets closer, Lou is still having some problems moving out some high-priced players. Teams may not want to give up much to take on the salary when there are still some lower priced free agents on the market. Some may be punishing Lou for the Kovalchuk contract. So Travis Zajac’s name continue to be brought up in rumors. Sources are saying teams aren’t that interested in sending futures to Devils forwards (I would guess not including Zajac). Teams are more interested in their defenseman, mainly Bryce Salvador, but Lou doesn’t really want to have to deal him.
- Jesse Spector of the NY Daily News: John Tortorella said the Alexander Frolov will play on a line with Marian Gaborik at the start of pre-season in hopes of increasing his confidence. Tortorella says they are not signaling out Wade Redden to solve their cap problems, and will let things play out. Tort’s answers more questions regarding the Rangers in the article.
- Craig Custance of the Sporting News: Jose Theordore’s agent has said that he won’t be attending training camp on a tryout as he doesn’t feel that Theordore needs to tryout for anyone.
- Tony Gallagher of the Vancouver Province: It appears that Florida Panthers coach, Peter DeBoer, is not liked by many of his players, as he’s said to treat them like Juniors. Keith Ballard was traded to Canucks after the season, and had screaming matches with DeBoer last season. Ballard had taken enough from DeBoer, and wasn’t going to put up with it any more without letting DeBoer know what he felt. “We had our differences, and it got loud but I don’t think it was anything more than a coach trying to get more out of a player.”
- Mike Brophy via twitter: Magnus Svensson-Paajarvi, Magnus Paajarvi-Svensson, Magnus Paajarvi could start the year on line with Sam Gagner and Ales Hemsky.
- Spector’s Hockey via twitter: With the New Jersey Devils inviting Adam Mair to training camp, it will only add to the speculation that a centerman will be either traded or demoted.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: LeBrun talked to Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli yesterday, and he said he’s never seen Tim Thomas more motivated.
Twitter quick hit rumors
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on June 25th, 2010
1st round draft results at myNHLdraft.com
James Mirtle via Twitter: The Philadelphia Flyers trade the rights to Dan Hamhuis to the Pittsburgh Penguins for a 2011 3rd round pick.
Tim Panaccio via Twitter: 2 teams are in on Evgeni Nabokov`s rights. The Flyers are one team.
Chris Botta via Twitter: Islanders looking to acquire another 1st round pick.
Greg Wyshynski via Twitter: Bryan Murray said there is nothing new on Jason Spezza.
Mark Spector via Twitter: Vancouver gives up Steve Bernier, Michael Grabner and 25th pick for Keith Ballard and a prospect, Oreskovich. (If the player that Vancouver wants is still available at 25, it will be adjusted to a 2011 1st round pick.) ***Trade Official***
Mark Spector via Twitter: More confirmation that the #2 pick “is in play”, “Tambellini stalking”.
Andy Stricklan via Twitter: Edmonton would sent Hemsky to Boston for #2, but Boston would have move out Savard.
Andy Strickland via Twitter: Strickland hearing Ballard to Vancouver for 25th overall.
Bob McKenzie via Twitter: Looks like Keith Ballard is heading to Vancouver.
Mike Russo via Twitter: The Minnesota Wild are talking with the Boston Bruins. Possibily a Forward/Dman going to the Wild for a Dman.
NHL Sources Say via Twitter: Columbus and Oilers talking … about #4?
I’ll continue to add some rumors/notes during the draft when I can. I can’t wait for this Taylor or Tyler comparison to stop, I’ve heard enough of it.
Oilers want 1st and 2nd overall pick … Ballard being traded out west?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on June 25th, 2010
- John Shannon via Twitter: Keith Ballard may be going west, but it won’t be to St. Louis.
- Bruce Garrioch via Twitter: The Blues have shown interest in Ballard.
- Bob McKenzie via Twitter: Player most likely traded today could be Florida’s Keith Ballard. Western conference teams showing the most interest.
- Andy Strickland via Twitter: Florida is looking to cut salary.
- Darren Dreger via Twitter: Sergei Gonchar looking for a 3 year deal, Penguins wanting to go 2 years.
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: “I was told I would get two more last night,” Burke said. “I expect them today. I would say at this point it’s unlikely he is going anywhere today.” “He” of course being Kaberle. Tampa Bay might be interested in Tim Thomas but they couldn’t take on his contract unless they shed some salary.
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: The Bruins and Oilers have talked several times today. Edmonton has been trying to get the 2nd pick from Boston. “But he inquired about trading for the second pick and I have to give him credit. He’s been really persistent in trying to get that pick. But I told him, as I’ve been telling everyone else, that I’m not moving the second pick.”
NHL Trade Rumors keep on coming
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on June 25th, 2010
Eric Stephens of the OC Register: The Anaheim Ducks have made an offer to restricted free agent Bobby Ryan. The offer is for 5-years in the $20-25 million range according to GM Bob Murray. Murray also said that if Ryan were to get an offer sheet, they’d match as they have plenty of cap space (what else is he going to say?). The Ducks are looking for a puck moving defenseman, and Murray offered this regarding the Leafs-Ducks rumors involving Ryan and Kaberle, “Why would I give up a young guy for someone with one year left on their contract?” At the moment they’ll be holding on to their 12th pick, but the 29th pick is available and getting inquiries. Murray will meet with James Wisniewski’s next week in Chicago.
Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: Tim Thomas still has a no trade clause which may make trading a little more difficult. Free agent goalies that will make less than Thomas next year (and you wouldn’t have to give anything up): Evgeni Nabokov, Marty Turco, Dan Ellis, Chris Mason and Martin Biron. Jonathan Quick isn’t going anywhere according to Dean Lombardi. The Flyers met with Michael Leighton’s agent yesterday. Marty Turco could end up in San Jose if he’s willing to take a pay cut. One rumor making the rounds yesterday was Mike Ribeiro to St. Louis, but was called ‘unlikely’ by a St. Louis front office source. A Maple Leaf front office source said Thursday afternoon that “things were heading up”.
Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: The Flyers are looking for an upgrade over Michael Leighton, but will need to shed some salary to do so. The Flyers don’t want to move Jeff Carter, but they may have too. The Kings could use a center and move Jonathan Bernier. James Wisniewski and the Ducks are far apart, and might be shopping his rights around to see what they can get for him, they’d like a Dman in return. The Panthers have inquired about Kris Versteeg. The Blackhawks want a #1 and prospect in return. The Canucks have offered the Blackhawks a prospect and the 25th pick for Versteeg. The Dallas Stars have been targeting Tomas Kaberle and Keith Ballard. The Nashville Predators are trying to trade the rights to Denis Grebeshkov.
Larry Brooks of the NY Post: The New York Rangers have been contacted by the Boston Bruins if they’d be interested in Marc Savard. Savard has a $4 million cap hit through 2016-17, which might be too much for Rangers. Brooks mentions 10th overall pick in the same paragraph, but he doesn’t say that is what the Bruins wanted in return. The Rangers talked to Nashville about Jason Arnott before he was traded to New Jersey. The Rangers will be keeping an eye on the Dallas Stars-Brad Richards situation, Richards is in the last year of his contract and has a cap hit of $7.8 million. The Rangers could look Vladimir Tarasenko, Jeff Skinner, Emerson Etem, and Nino Niederreiter with the 10th overall pick tonight.
Rob Longley of the Toronto Sun: As of Thursday night, interest in Kaberle has hit ‘double-digits’.
Tim Panaccio via Twitter: The Flyers and Bruins have talked about Tim Thomas, but the Flyers would have to clear $5 million in cap space.
Maple Leafs interested in Hamhuis? Kovalchuk update, well sort of …
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 19th, 2010
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: The Bruins continue to shop Tim Thomas around in hope of freeing up some cash before July 1st. The Blues had shown some interest before they acquired Halak. Other teams that could be looking for a starting goalie are Philadelphia, Washington, San Jose and Tampa. Thomas is 36-years old with 3-years left at a $5 million cap hit. The Lightning made a run at Carey Price, but the Canadiens had already decided to keep him. The Capitals are rumored to be shopping Alexander Semin around the league, looking for 2 top prospects and a pick. The Florida Panthers are shopping Nathan Horton, Rostislav Olesz, Radek Dvorak, and Keith Ballard.
- Tom Gulitti of The Record: Gulitti runs through the Ilya Kovalchuk free agent situation. Kovalchuk won’t be signing with the KHL or the New Jersey Devils before the July 1st free agent date. The Devil’s and Kovalchuk continue to talk. There is still a possibility of signing with the Devils on July 1st. His opinion of the organization has increased over time. He wants to play for a winning team, and his first choice is to stay in the NHL, with the KHL as a fall back.
- Damien Cox of the Toronto Star: It’s been well documented that the Toronto Maple Leafs are one of many teams interested in Patrick Sharp and Nathan Horton, but Cox throws out the name Dan Hamhuis. Dan Hamhuis is a UFA, Sharp and Horton would would have to be acquired through trade. What the team does with Tomas Kaberle would influence any of the above move(s).
- Tim Panaccio of CSN: The Flyers had interest in trading for Carey Price before the Canadiens shipped Halak off to St. Louis. TSN reported that the Flyers, Lightning and San Jose were interested in Halak, though Flyers GM Paul Holmgren denied it. The Flyers are uncertain if Michael Leighton could be their #1 goalie next year.
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: According to James Wisniewski’s agent, they are not in talks with Anaheim, and there is the possibility that the RFA is dealt. Wisniewski is coming off a 1-year deal at $2.75 million. He had 30 points last season in 69 games, and was in the top-20 in ice time (24.:20).
- Mike Russo of the Star-Tribune: The Minnesota Wild could be open to trading the 9th overall pick in this year’s NHL draft, but it would have to be for a young player that could give them 8-10 years of solid production. The Wild have varying degrees of interest for centers Patrick Sharp, Jeff Carter, and Stephen Weiss.
- Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: After not having much success with the Penguins after he was acquired at the trade deadline for Luca Caputi, Alexei Ponikarovsky most likely won’t be re-signed. Jay McKee probably won’t be back either. The Pens are still considering bringing back Sergei Gonchar, Jordan Leopold, Mark Eaton, Matt Cooke and Bill Guerin.
- Elliotte Friedman via Twitter: The 34-year old Chris Mason was asking the St. Louis Blues for 3 years, $11.25 million.
- Helene Elliot of the LA Times: Former coach of Flyers, John Stevens, has been offered an assistant coach position from the LA Kings.
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.
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