Posts Tagged KHL

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.”
  • 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.
  • Darren Dreger via twitter: It’s not sounding like the Hurricanes and Erik Cole are close on a deal, things can change quickly though.
  • 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.”

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Malhotra and Hamhuis could be out … More on Brad Richards … Koivu only Wild player they won’t trade … Jagr not ruling out NHL

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 3rd, 2011

  • Matthew Sekeres of the Globe and Mail: Rumors that Manny Malhotra had emergency surgery on his eye on Tuesday were false. If he doesn’t skate with teammates today, it’s unlikely he’ll play on Saturday. Dan Hamhuis is day-to-day with a lower-body injury after putting a hip check on Milan Lucic in Game 1. Hamhuis replacement options are Keith Ballard, Andrew Alberts and rookie Chris Tanev.
  • Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: So the Dallas Stars won’t be making an offer to Brad Richards.

    “We have had talks with Brad throughout the year, and he’s not going to sign with us unless we have the ownership situation resolved, and it doesn’t look like that’s going to happen by the start of free agency,” Nieuwendyk said. “So while we could have discussions, it just doesn’t make much sense right now. So we would like to see if we could get something for his rights and allow another team to have a chance to sign him, but a lot of that is up to Brad and his agent.”

    Richards has a no movement clause, and won’t easily waive it.

    “I’m not aware of another player in this situation who has waived his no-trade clause, and I think there is a reason for that,” said Richards’ Toronto-based agent Pat Morris. “Accepting a move to another team creates an obligation, and you have to be pretty sure about that obligation. I think Brad has to do what’s best for himself and keep his options open.”

    “It is difficult to leave Dallas, because it’s a city I really like and it’s a team where I thought I would have a chance to stay long-term,” Richards said. “But the ownership situation is what it is, and I’ve been through that before, and it’s something that’s really important to me. I want to win, and I think if you look around the league, the teams that win consistently are teams with strong ownership.”

  • Jesse Spector of the NY Daily News: Richards history with John Tortorella has lead to speculation that he would be interested in joining the Rangers. The Maple Leafs and LA Kings are likely to give the Rangers competition. It’s likley he’ll want to test the open market.
  • Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: Sidney Crosby has been given clearance to begin his off-season workout routine, and would be monitored by his personal trainer. “I don’t want to look too far ahead, or whatever,” Shero said today. “But there’s no reason for me to expect him not to be (ready for camp), put it that way.”
  • Michael Russo of the Star-Tribune: Minnesota Wild GM Chuck Fletcher has said he’s willing to trade anyone except Mikko Koivu. They have already interviewed Craig MacTavish, Michel Therrien, Ken Hitchcock and Kirk Muller for the vacant head coaching position. He plans on talking with Houston’s (AHL) Mike Yeo. “We’re closer to the end than we are to the beginning,” said Fletcher, in Toronto for the NHL draft combine. “It’s not going to go forever. There’s a lot to be done, and I think it’s very important to work hand-in-hand with the new coach. Defenseman Brent Burns will be a UFA after next season and could be looking something in the $5 million range. Fetcher will be speaking with Burns’ agent, Ron Salcer, in the near future. Cam Barker (25) will make $3.08 million next year, and if bought out, he’d cost $375,000 against the cap next year, $541,667 the year after. The Wild won’t make any decisions on their free agents until they hire a new coach.
  • Andre Cyr on Canoe.ca: Jaromir Jagr is talking with 4 KHL teams and said he’ll make a decision within a week. He also mentioned not to exclude a return to the NHL. Jagr’s European agent said last week that the Canadiens were interested. Sources are saying the Rangers could be interested as well, though they don’t have much cap room. Jagr could be “satisfied” with a $2 million NHL salary.
  • Don Brennan of the Ottawa Sun: The Ottawa Senators have interviewed 5 or 6 coaches to fill their head coaching vacancy. Saint John (QMJHL) head coach Gerard Gallant was one of the latest to interview for the position. GM Bryan Murray hopes to have the position filled by mid-June.
  • Genadi Boguslavski via twitter: KHL’s Vityaz GM Alex Zhamnov said his team wants to sign Zenon Konopka (NY Islanders) and Steve MacIntyre (Oilers).

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Wild could move Burns … Avs best bet for Vokoun … Pronger unlikely for tonight … Bogosian’s future

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on April 18th, 2011

  • Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: The Minnesota Wild may consider moving defenseman Brent Burns because they may not want to pay him $5 million a season when his current contract runs out after next year. They’ll want offense in a return for him. The Flyers have extra forwards and the Sharks have always liked him. The Blue Jackets likely won’t re-sign defenseman Jan Hejda. The Avalanche are the best bet to sign UFA Tomas Vokoun. Vokoun turns 35 on July 2nd, so if he’s not signed on July 1st, his salary cap number will stay on the books if he retires and can’t be bought out. Omsk of the KHL has expressed some interest.
  • Phil Sheridan of the Philadelphia Inquirer: Flyers Dman Chris Pronger is unlikely for tonight’s game, but could make a return on Wednesday for Game 4. Coach Peter Laviolette isn’t saying who will be between the pipes for tonight’s game. Sheridan thinks the Flyers should go with Sergei Bobrovsky, but others are saying Brian Boucher. Mike Harrington of the Buffalo News: Harrington says that it seems likely that the Flyers will go with Boucher in net.
  • Larry Brooks of the NY Post: Brooks thinks that if the Boston Bruins don’t make it to at least the conference finals that Devils GM Lou Lamoriello will have the chance to rehire Claude Julien as the next coach of the Devils.
  • Chris Vivlamore of the Atlanta Journal-Consitution: Thrashers RFA Zach Bogosian was asked about his future with the Thrashers,

    I guess it will be interesting to see what happens. I haven’t had any talks with management yet. I’m just going home and getting ready to be the best player I can be. … That’s what my agent is there for. I’ve had him for awhile so I’m pretty comfortable with him. It’s something that I haven’t put too much thought into but now that the season is over you can put more thought into.

  • Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Former NHL coach Craig MacTavish has said it’s “unlikely” that he would coach St. Petersburg in the KHL. Last week it was reported that team chairman and KHL president Alexander Medvedev said that MacTavish was one of four candidates for the head coaching position. It’s been reported that MacTavish did fly to Russia late last week.

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Crosby progressing … Parise possible for next week, Devils could offer arbitration … Varlamov to KHL? Audio of Recchi’s comments about Pacioretty’s injury

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Audio, NHL Injuries, NHL News on March 24th, 2011

  • Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: Sidney Crosby has increased his intensity at practice, but management is taking the cautious approach. Teammates have said he has looked “mentally and physically sharp”. Crosby still needs to get medical clearance to take part in full practices. “Again, there’s no timetable for a progression from that standpoint,” Bylsma said. “He’s always in contact with the doctors, and his daily schedule is set in the morning.”
  • Mark Everson of the NY Post: Zach Parise is expected to ask for medical clearance this week, with a possible return to the lineup late next week if all goes well. Parise will be a RFA after this season and a it’s likely the Devils will offer arbitration, which would eliminate the option a team signing him to an offer sheet. If he signed a one year deal, he’ll be a UFA after next season.
  • Dmity Chesnokov via twitter: Capitals goalie Semyon Varlamov’s Russian agent said that Varlamov (a RFA) is considering offers from the KHL, “a few elite KHL clubs are interested in Semyon” and that he’s “is considering the possibility.”
  • David Shoalts of the Globe and Mail: The NHL reportedly asked the KHL for $2-3 million to have the Washington Capitals and NY Rangers play 2 exhibitions in Russia next year, the KHL said nyet. KHL president Alexander Medvedev said it was too much for them.
  • Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Ducks goalie Jonas Hiller was activated off the IR yesterday and backed up Ray Emery last night. There is a chance he starts tonight against Nashville.
  • Allen Panzeri of the Ottawa Citizen: With all the changes and influx of young players in Ottawa, Cory Clouston might be auditioning still for next year, “I’m just trying to win hockey games,” he said Wednesday. “I’m trying to improve our team.” “I’m trying to help these young guys get better. I’m trying to help the older guys get better. I’m trying to create a team environment, to create a team atmosphere that’s conducive to moving the team forward.” Jason Spezza, Erik Karlsson, Marek Svatos, Craig Anderson and Milan Michalek should all be ready to go tonight.

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Injury updates involving Sens, Sharks, Capitals, Lightning … Audio involving Matt Cooke suspension

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Audio, NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News on March 22nd, 2011

  • Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Matheson thinks the Oilers should look at Capitals forward Brooks Laich, who’ll be a UFA on July 1st. But he also thinks the Capitals will give him a raise on his $2.4 million salary to keep him in Washington.
  • Allen Panzeri of the Ottawa Citizen: The Senators could be getting Milan Michalek back this week, likely on Thursday against the Rangers. He’s been out since Feb. 26th with a broken foot. Sergei Gonchar will be out for at least a week with a concussion.
  • Katie Carrera of the Washington Post: Jason Arnott’s ‘undisclosed injury’ appears to be a groin injury, which has kept him out of the last 3 games, he’s still listed as week-to-week. Alex Ovechkin will rest for 7-10 days. Eric Fehr will play sometime over the next 3 games. John Erskine thinks he’ll be ready to go tonight. The Caps don’t know when Mike Green will be able to return from his concussion. Michal Neuvirth will get the start for the Capitals tonight against the Flyers.
  • Damian Cristodero of the Tampa Tribune: Steve Downie and Ryan Malone are wearing no-contact jersey’s at the Lightning’s practice yesterday. Downie has missed 8 games with knee and ankle problems, but could be ready to go on Friday. Malone has been out for 17 games with a mid-body injury, but could be ready next week. Simon Gagne (neck) could be in lineup tonight, Friday for-sure.
  • Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Senators GM Bryan Murray said that Pascal Leclaire won’t be back with the team next season. They want Robin Lehner to develop in the AHL next year. The Sens are not sure yet if they’ll bring back Curtis McElhinney.
  • Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: CSKA President Slava Fetisov confirms they are talking to Andy Murray and Mike Keenan about coaching the team.
  • Even Drexler of the Miami Herald: Panthers forward Sergei Samsonov has played well of late for the team, and they may consider re-signing him. The Panthers won’t name a captain until next season, Bryan McCabe was their captain before he was traded.
  • Fan 590 audio: Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review talks Matt Cooke and what it means for the Penguins.
  • Fan 590 audio: Glen Healy talks with Bob McCown and Damian Cox about Matt Cooke and impact it will  have on Penguins and rest of the league.

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Afternoon NHL notes involving the Penguins, Capitals, Maple Leafs, Flyers and Avs

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News on March 21st, 2011

  • Nick Kypreos via twitter: Kypreos was informed that Mario Lemieux and Matt Cooke spoke yesterday and “was basically told to change the way he plays or leave.”
  • Mike Vogl via twitter: With 1 game in 6 days, Ovechkin won’t travel with the team, and will rest his nagging injuries for 7-10 days. Mike Vogl: Eric Fehr is questionable for the Flyers game, but is expected back this week. Tom Poti practiced today but his return may not be immenent.
  • Will DePaoli via twitter: Penguins forward Mark Letestu is expected to miss his 2nd straight game. Aaron Asham will likely be in the lineup for the 1st time since Feb. 1st.
  • Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Larry Robinson, Andy Murray and Mike Keenan are being considered for head coaching job with CSKA of the KHL.

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Nieuwendyk has permission, but hasn’t spoken to Richards … More on Langenbrunner and Gorges … Arnott next? Starting goalies and waiver clears

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on January 7th, 2011

  • Dan Rosen via twitter: Stars GM Joe Nieuwendyk said he has permission to talk to Brad Richards about a contract extension. Steve Zipay via twitter: According to Brad Richards agent, they haven’t spoken to the Stars about a new contract. Mark Spector via twitter: From Nieuwendyk, “It’s always been my intention to re-sign Brad Richards. This sends a message …we’re doing everything possible to win games.”
  • Rich Chere of the Star-Ledger: Will Jason Arnott be the next New Jersey Devil to be traded? Lines at practice today: 1. Ilya Kovalchuk-Travis Zajac-Nick Palmieri 2. Vladimir Zharkov-Adam Mair-Jason Arnott-Mattias Tedenby 3. Brian Rolston-Patrik Elias-Dainius Zubrus 4. Rod Pelley-Tim Sestito-David Clarkson
  • Michael Russo via twitter: Jose Theodore will start for the Wild tomorrow versus the Penguins. The Wild may have to recall a goalie, as there are concerns if Backstrom can start on Sunday.
  • Ian Mendes via twitter: Brian Lee and Jarkko Ruutu will both be in the Senators lineup, Matt Carkner will be a healthy scratch.
  • Frank Seravalli via twitter:Flyers defenseman Matt Walker is wearing a non-contract jersey today at practice, first time back since early December.

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Bergeron gets clearance, Habs and Jackets not interested … Chelios to the KHL? Sens still trying to move Lee? Prucha waived

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on November 26th, 2010

  • Ken Warren of the Ottawa Citizen: 23 year old Brian Lee has been a healthy scratch for the last 15 games, and his name comes up in  many Senators trade rumors. The Senators need scoring help, and a Lee trade could bring that in or allow them to recall Bobby Butler (AHL leading goal scorer).
  • Aaron Portzline via twitter: Portzline says the Blue Jackets have no interest in trading for Senators Dman, Brian Lee. Portzline also adds that the Jackets are not interested in Marc-Andre Bergeron.
  • James Mirtle via twitter: Maple Leafs leading scorer, Clarke MacArthur will be an RFA after the season. GM Brian Burke said he usually waits 40 or 50 games before he considers re-signing players.
  • Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Chris Chelios and the KHL’s Vityaz are in negotiations for Chelios’s service. Former NHLer Alexei Zhamnov told SovSport.
  • Brian Compton via twitter: Petr Prucha was waived by the Phoenix Coyotes, and Compton wonders if the NY Islanders would be interested.

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Leaf talks heating up … Backes talks on hold … No Devils-Parise talks yet … Flyers-Carter talking contract … Gretzky to Russia rumor again

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on October 28th, 2010

  • Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: LeBrun was told Tuesday night that trade talks involving the Maple Leafs and their $4 million in cap space are heating up, but nothing is imminent. The Leafs are still trying to find a top 6 forward. The St. Louis Blues and David Backes have put contract talks on hold for now, with LeBrun thinking they’ll start up again in 2011. The Florida Panthers haven’t started contract talks with Bryan McCabe or Tomas Vokoun. I wouldn’t think they’d re-sign Vokoun, but McCabe is a good possibility.
  • Tim Panaccio of CSNPhilly: Contract negotiations between Jeff Carter and the Philadelphia Flyers have begun. Carter’s agent, Rich Curran said they’ve had some conversations and are making some progress. 2 weeks ago it appeared that no progress was being made. Carter is coming off a 3 year $15 million deal.
  • Michael Russo of the Star-Tribune: Martin Havlat’s agent, Allan Walsh went off yesterday on how his client has been used since signing with the Minnesota Wild. Walsh said Havlat has been used in a “secondary role” with the club.

    “When Chuck reached out to Marty Havlat two summers ago after he led Chicago to the conference finals while leading the team in points in the regular season and playoffs, he shared a vision of building an up-tempo offensive team with Marty as a pillar to this strategy,” Walsh said in an e-mail to the Star Tribune. “That’s why he signed with the Wild.

    “Since that time, Marty has been used in a purely secondary role. Look at this season, he’s played four straight games at about 14 minutes of ice time, he’s used on the second power-play unit, he sits for long stretches, he’s not used in the shootouts. At a certain point in time, one has to ask, ‘Why is he here?’ One has to ask, ‘Why pay this guy $30 million to not play?’

    “It’s like we are in a time warp and the coach has totally ignored or chooses to ignore what Marty has done offensively over the course of his entire career. People say the Wild don’t have a star player. The Wild have a dynamic offensive player right under their nose and yet choose not to use him to their advantage. Look around the league, what other team has a player like Marty Havlat wilting on the vine like this?”

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Panthers looking for an explanation … Backes at $5 million? MRI for Armstrong … Spezza playing Saturday?

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Videos on October 27th, 2010

  • Ian Mendes via twitter: Florida Panthers coach Peter DeBoer said that Dale Tallon will seek to get further explanation on the Colton Orr’s goal from last night. (video of goal at bottom of this entry with Kypreos, Watters and Millard talking about it).
  • Andy Strickland of True Hockey: St. Louis Blues forward David Backes will be an unrestricted free agent this summer, both sides would like to get something done, but there is no rush.  Backes may look to deals signed by Patrice Bergeron and Ryan Kesler as comparables, in the $5 million range. Kesler may have a more offensive upside that Backes, but plays a similar all-round game. Backes intangibles make him a valuable commodity.
  • Bruce Garrioch via twitter: Jason Spezza, Erik Karlsson, Milan Michalek, Robyn Lehner and Filip Kuba are not on the ice at Senators practice. Ian Mendes noted that coach Clouston says that Spezza is targeting Saturday versus Boston, unlikely for Thursday.
  • Bob McKenzie via twitter: Jeff Skinner was told to find a place to live in Raleigh, he won’t be going back to Kitchener of the OHL.
  • Craig Custance via twitter: Atlanta Thrashers GM Dudley told Custance that there is a 99% chance that Burmistrov will stay with the club.

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Will facts come out in Kovalchuk benching today? Plenty of players not at practice today … New #1 line in Toronto?

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on October 25th, 2010

  • Greg Brady via twitter: From a Devils insider, Kovalchuk’s benching had nothing to do with his on-ice play. Brady speculates that it might come out today what the real reason was, theory is the he skipped or was late for special teams meeting.
  • Joe Haggerty of CSNNE: David Krejci was absent for the Bruins practice today. Andrew Ference moved up to the #1 defensive pairing with Zdeno Chara now that Johnny Boychuk is out. Dennis Seidenberg is with Mark Stuart. Matt Hunwick is with Adam McQuaid.
  • James Murphy of ESPN Boston: In December when Marc Savard and Marco Sturm come off LTIR ($7.5 million combined), the Bruins will have to move out a couple bodies. They currently have $1.8 million in cap space with the 2 on LTIR. It’s been mentioned for awhile that Michael Ryder and his $4 million salary could be on his way out, but they’ll have to move more than that. Marco Strum hasn’t been approached about waiving his no movement clause, and it’s unlikely that he would. Blake Wheeler ($2.2 million) and Matt Hunwich ($1.4 million) are possible trade candidates.
  • Aaron Portzline via twitter: Columbus Blue Jackets left winger Kristian Huselius will not play tonight against the Flyers due to a foot/ankle injury.
  • Will DePaoli via twitter: The Pittsburgh Penguins have assigned Eric Tangradi and Andrew Hutchinson to the AHL. So it looks like Aaron Asham and Zbynek Michalek are ready to go.
  • Ben Wright via twitter: Peter Mannino has been assigned to the AHL, Ondrej Pavelec has been activated from IR.
  • Jonas Siegel via twitter: Nikolai Kulemin was skating with Tyler Bozak and Phil Kessel at Maple Leafs practice today. Versteeg was with Grabovski and MacArthur.
  • Erik Erlendsson via twitter: Missing from the Lightning’s practice today: Simon Gagne (neck), Dominic Moore (lower-body), Brett Clark (wrist), Matt Smaby (illness) and Mattias Ohlund (rest).

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Alexander Radulov burning more bridges in Nashville?

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on October 23rd, 2010

  • Dmitry Chesnokov of Yahoo! Sports: On Thursday, Alexander Radulov signed a contract extension with the Salavat Yulaef of the KHL. Initially it was reported that it was 3 year deal, but apparently it’s a 2 year extension, he’s under contract this year. Where it gets interesting is that the deal was done in August, but only came out the other day. It’s been reported that Radulov would like to return to the NHL at some point. His agent has said that he wouldn’t return until a new CBA is signed.
  • Josh Cooper of the Tennessean: Cooper talked to Nashville Predators GM David Poille about the Radulov contact and the secrecy behind it.

    “His agent was here last week. Every time we talk, we talk about it. He had heard the same thing, though he doesn’t do Radulov’s Rus­sian con­tract. Rad said to him, basi­cally, he didn’t say yes or no, basi­cally he said he could get out of the deal. But that’s what he said about the current deal. When he asked him about the exten­sion, Rad didn’t con­firm it, but he said, ‘wha­te­ver I do, I can get out of.’ That’s what he said when he sig­ned the three-year deal, that he could get out of it from year-to-year.”

  • Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Alexander Radulov’s current contract and extension does not contain an out clause according to Salavat’s GM.

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More on Brad Richards … Radulov signing KHL extension? NHL attendance

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on October 22nd, 2010

  • Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: Heika answers questions from readers. Asked if signing Brad Richards to a contract extension could help entice a new owner. Heika thinks it’s possible and that they have already considered it, but it would be tough to put together as it would involve Richards, the team, the lenders and the NHL. Richards does have a no trade, therefore controls his destiny before he becomes a UFA on July 1st. If the team is struggling in February, Heika thinks he would consider waiving it to move to a contender. He later goes on to say that a contract extension for Richards before the end of the season is unlikely. Heika doesn’t think the Stars would be interested in Sheldon Souray if he’s put on re-entry waivers, he has another year left after this year, and it may be better for the organization to rid out the young kids.

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Lots of Roster movement today … 3 teams interested in Morrison … NHL-KHL to play nice

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on October 4th, 2010

  • Jonas Seigel of AM640: The Toronto Maple Leafs have assigned Nazem Kadri, Luca Caputi, Christian Hanson, and Jussi Rynnas to the Toronto Marlies of the AHL. John Mitchell was kept over Christian Hanson, who probably had a better camp than Mitchell. From Brian Burke,

    “If you go based on the way training camp went, I think Luca and Christian could both make a real good argument that this isn’t a fair result.  They both played well, but again Luca had to knock out an incumbent—so whether that’s Freddie Sjostrom or whatever—didn’t do it in our estimation and Christian Hanson is not a guy we want playing six minutes a night. We want him to go down and play. He’s a young player, he needs to play. Same with Luca. Those two guys I think can make an argument this isn’t fair.”

    Mike Zigomanis was put on waivers as well today.

  • Frank Seravalli via twitter: The Flyers have sent Johan Backlund, Bourdon, Gustafsson, Kalinski, Testwuide, Laliberte and Holmstrom to the AHL Phantoms.
  • Chris Kuc via twitter: Viktor Stalberg beat out Jeremy Morin for one of the last Chicago Blackhawks roster spots, Morin was sent to the AHL.
  • Chris Vivlamore via twitter: The Atlanta Thrashers have released Fredrik Pettersson, Patrick Rissmiller, Arturs Kulda and Andrey Zubarev.
  • Eric Stephens via twitter: The Anaheim Ducks have sent Maxime Macenauer to Syracuse of the AHL. Left winger Josh Green was put on waivers, and will be sent to Syracuse if he clears.

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D-Day for the Devils, 3pm Wednesday … Ottawa makes final cuts … Cammalleri hearing today

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on October 4th, 2010

  • Rich Chere of the Star-Ledger: The New Jersey Devils have until 3 pm on Wednesday to get under the $59.4 million salary cap ceiling. Bryce Salvador ($2.9 million) and Anssi Salmela ($612,500) will be put on LTIR (Salvador was a likely candidate to be moved, but it can’t happen now that he’s injured). Lou will most likely have to trade or waive at least one player, with Dainius Zubrus and Colin White the leading candidates. Zubrus is a $3.4 million cap hit and is without a no-trade clause. White is a $3 million cap hit with a no-trade, but they could send him to the AHL. White’s best days are behind him, he’s not the physical player he once was, and a bad eye doesn’t really allow him to drop the gloves anymore.
  • EJ Hradek via twitter: Hradek would be ‘SHOCKED’ if the New Jersey Devils traded Travis Zajac, though anything is possible. I think if the Devils felt they had to traded him, it would be part of a bigger package, sending out other salary and bringing in a puck moving defenseman.
  • Colin Stephenson of the Star-Ledger: The Devils are about $2 million over the cap, with 28 players (including Salvador and Salmela) still in camp. The players are trying to downplay the teams cap situation, “Right now we’re not thinking about that,” Zach Parise said of the prospect of the Devils having to move a high-salaried veteran or two to get cap-compliant. “We know it’s going to happen. Everyone’s been talking about it for two-and-a-half months now, so we’re prepared for it. We know it’s going to happen. But everyone’s still in good spirits; everyone’s fine.”
  • Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: The Ottawa Senators have made their final cuts. Jared Cowen was sent back to junior. Heading to Binghamton of the AHL are: G Robin Lehner, D Patrick Wiercioch,  C Bobby Butler, Cody Bass, Ryan Keller, Corey Locke, Francis Lessard and Derek Smith.
  • EJ Hradek via twitter: Hradek thinks the Penguins will fill from within when it comes to Jordan Staal’s extended absence from the lineup.
  • Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: The Colorado Avalanche have just squeaked salary cap floor. The Avalanche don’t have to put Peter Mueller on LTIR, therefore keeping his $2 million on the books.
  • Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun: If the Toronto Maple Leafs send Matt Lashoff to the minors, they’ll basically be under the salary cap. Larger cap space won’t occur until (if) Jeff Finger is put on waivers.

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Rangers-Fedotenko talking … Getzlaf new Ducks captain … Bernier beats out Ersberg … Morrison released

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on October 4th, 2010

  • Bruce Garrioch via twitter: The New York Rangers and Ruslan Fedotenko continue to talk about a contract. 3 other teams have shown interest if he can’t get a deal worked out the Rangers.
  • Helene Elliott of the LA Times: Los Angeles Kings backup battle was won by Jonathan Bernier. Erik Ersberg didn’t get into an exhibition game after injuring his hand. He was unlikely to beat out Bernier anyways as he was in Murray’s doghouse for most of last season. Ersberg is set to make $750,000 this season, and will likely be put on waivers.
  • Ben Kuzma via twitter: Brendan Morrison was released by the Vancouver Canucks, he never received a contract offer. Morrison was asked about the possibility of retirement, adding “No, I’ll see how this year goes and make a decision. I still feel I can play. I know I can play.” Ian Walker of the Vancouver Sun: Morrison had a good camp, with the Calgary Flames the best bet to go after the 35-year old forward due to the amount of injuries they’ve had down the middle. Brian Burke said in an email that the Maple Leafs don’t have any interest in Morrison. The Canucks are down to 28 players after sending Victor Oreskovich, Sergei Shirokov, Yann Sauve and Bill Sweatt to the Manitoba Moose.
  • George Richards of the Miami Herald: The Florida Panthers goalie of the future, Jacob Markstrom was sent to the AHL by the team. Michael Grabner, Andrew Peters and Joe Callahan were released by the club, and will be sent to the AHL if they clear waivers. Grabner being put on waivers is a bit surprising since he was part of the deal that sent Keith Ballard to the Canucks.
  • Nick Kypreos: Sources are saying that Kyle Wellwood is heading to the KHL, for a 1 year deal worth over $1 million with bonuses.

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Leighton out a month … Okposo out indefinitely … Islanders sign Mottau … Burrows will miss 1st 10 games …

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on September 28th, 2010

  • Tim Panaccio of CSNPhilly: Philadelphia Flyers GM Paul Holmgren announced today that goaltender Michael Leighton will be out a month with a bulging disc. His initial MRI came back negative but a 2nd and 3rd opinion revealed the injury. The Flyers won’t look outside the organization for a replacement.
  • Katie Strang via twitter: The New York Islanders have lost Kyle Okposo indefinitely with a right shoulder injury that will require surgery.
  • Ben Kuzma via twitter: On Wednesday, Alex Burrows will have a ‘cybex test’ on his shoulder. Burrow’s will be on the IR for the first 10 games of the season.
  • Darren Dreger via twitter: It’s not a surprise that the New Jersey Devils are trying to trade Bryce Salvador, Colin White and Bryan Rolston. No market for them according to one team.

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Friday morning rumors involving free agents and trade candidates

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on September 10th, 2010

  • Eric Stephens via twitter: The Anaheim Ducks and Bobby Ryan continue to talk, but rumor is they haven’t agreed on any specific part of the contract.
  • Jim Matheson via twitter: Most likely scenario for Sheldon Souray is to attend Oilers camp, play in the top 4, and show teams that need a pp quarterback that he’s healthy.
  • Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Andrew Cogliano is still looking for a contract from the Oilers, and is finding out he might have to take less than he’d like. The 3rd line center may have to take less than Gilbert Brule’s $1.85 million, even though he has more career points than him. Teams are being tighter when giving young players their second contract. The Oilers see him as a top 9 forward, not a top 6, and want to pay him accordingly, possibly a 1 year deal for less than $1.5 million.
  • Tom Gulitti via twitter: Deputy Commish Bill Daly said in an email that the League is still unsure on if or how they will penalize the New Jersey Devils for Kovalchuk’s first contract.
  • Mark Everson of the NY Post: Lou needs to shed around $3.5 million in cap space, and doesn’t want to deal Bryce Salvador’s $2.9 million contract. Dainius Zubrus is a likely candidate. Matt Corrente’s name has also come up, and Travis Zajac name continues to float around. There was a rumor that Tomas Kaberle could end up with the Devils in a big exchange with the Leafs, players and picks heading to Toronto, but it is “most difficult to fathom”.  Lou hasn’t asked any of his players that have a no-trade clause to waive it. Back in 2006 the Devils sent Malakhov and a 1st round pick to San Jose for a couple minor leaguers, and were warned by the NHL not to do it again.
  • Chris Botta via twitter: At some point this season, Botta thinks that Bill Guerin will play for the Flyers or the Devils.
  • Genadi Boguslavski via twitter: The GM of the KHL’s Traktor Chelyabinsk confirmed that he had talks with Jose Theodore, but Theodore didn’t want to go to Russia.
  • Nick Kypreos via twitter: It looks like Brayden Schenn will be out 2-4 weeks, Kings hoping additional tests won’t reveal any major damage in his knee.
  • Larry Brooks via twitter: The NHLPA Executive Board is voting on Donald Fehr as Executive Director, player reps must vote by 5:00 pm Saturday. Sportsnet also confirming the vote.

Don’t forget to follow us on twitter.

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Kozlov talking to 3 KHL teams … Spezza or others to Kings? Ottawa to get 2012 All-Star Game

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on September 7th, 2010

  • NHL Sources Say: Senators and Kings are talking. Kings looking for a top forward, Senators looking for 2 roster players and a pick. Spezza/Fisher/Michalek have been discussed, no knowledge of what Kings are offering.
  • Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman will be in Ottawa next week, and could announce that Ottawa will host the 2012 NHL All-Star Game. More than 25 teams put in bids to host the 2011-12 All-Star game.
  • Pavel Lysenkov via twitter: Kovalchuk plans to play all 15 years, and doesn’t exclude that can play in the KHL if there is an NHL lockout.

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Kozlov to KHL … 3 NHL caliber goalies in SJ … Fehr wants $7.5 mill through 2012 … More on Staal, Savard and Maltby

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on September 3rd, 2010

  • Nick Kypreos via twitter: Fehr’s price tag for being the NHLPA executive director is $7.5 million through 2012, players start to “hmm and haw”.
  • David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News: The Sharks now have 3 NHL caliber goalies after signing Antti Niemi. Antero Niittymaki (signed this off-season for $2 million a year, 2 years) and Thomas Greiss were expected to battle for the starting position before the Niemi signing. Niittymaki doesn’t feel that concerned, but Greiss was more disappointed, as he’s probably the #3 goalie now. Greiss has talked to GM Doug Wilson about the situation, which might involve a change of scenery.
  • Chris Kuc via twitter: Antti Niemi’s agent said that he had “four or five offers” before he decided to sign with the Sharks.
  • Steve Zipay of Newsday: Speculation, not a rumor. The Bruins could send Marc Savard to the Rangers for possibly Matt Gilroy, Sean Avery and a 2nd round pick.
  • George Sipple of the Detroit Free Press: Red Wings GM Ken Holland met with Kirk Maltby on Wednesday, and is waiting to hear back from him. Maltby would have to earn a spot on the roster, and it might take an injury or 2 to get a spot.
  • Terry Frei of the Denver Post: RFA Chris Stewart signed a 2 year contract worth $5.75 million, $2.5 million this year, $3.25 million next year. Peter Mueller still remains unsigned by the Avalanche. The Avs currently sit $950,000 below the cap floor.

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