Posts Tagged Michael Leighton
Phaneuf cleared to return … Kane injured … Seguin staying with Bruins … Brodeur almost ready
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on December 6th, 2010
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Mark Zwolinski of the Toronto Star: Dion Phaneuf has been cleared to return to the Maple Leafs, and will accompany the team to Washington and Pittsburgh. He took part in his first full practice since his injury. It’s not known yet which game he’ll make his return, December 16th against Calgary has been a game he’s been focused on. When Phaneuf returns, the Leafs will have some decisions to make on the blueline, as they have plenty of NHL calibre defenseman.
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Tim Sassone of the Daily Herald: Patrick Kane only last 23 seconds yesterday before leaving the after falling awkwardly into the boards. “We’ll know more (Monday) exactly where we’re at,” Quenneville said. “It’s tough to speculate and I don’t want to go there right now, but it’s not real serious. I’ll go to that extent.”
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David Shoalts of the Globe and Mail: The salary cap could go up $2.1 million from the current $59.4 million if the players exercise the 5% inflator clause. At the Board of Governors meetings (starting today) there will be plenty of talk on ownership. Harley Hotchkiss is looking to sell is 22% stake in the Calgary Flames to the other owners. Potential Phoenix Coyotes owner, Matthew Hulsizer, is expected meet with the committee. They’ll likely also talk about the ownership of Atlanta Thrashers, St. Louis Blues, Dallas Stars, Carolina Hurricanes, Nashville Predators, Buffalo Sabres and the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Thrashers could potential move to Winnipeg or Quebec City.
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Red Fisher of the Montreal Gazette: Andrei Markov will be a UFA after this season, has he worn a Canadiens jersey for the last time? Will they give him big money despite only playing 52 games and have 2 major knee surgeries. The Canadiens have plenty of time to figure out if need to find a replacement for him, trade deadline day is February 28th.
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Kevin Paul Dupont of the Boston Globe: Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli has told Tyler Seguin that he’ll remain with the club and won’t be going to the World Jurior Championships later this month.
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Tom Gulitti of the Bergon Record: Martin Brodeur took part in his first full practice yesterday. Tom Gulitti via twitter: Brodeur will head to Pittsburgh with the team, and coach MacLean will decide after the morning skate if he’ll back up Hedberg or not. Gulitti also tweets that Brodeur had some swelling but no pain, and is aiming to play on Friday.
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Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post Dispatch: Blue forward Andy MacDonald is day-to-day with an upper body injury. He’ll be re-evaluated today, and if it’s a concussion, he could be out for indefinite period of time.
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Larry Brooks of the NY Post: The New York Rangers continue to have $4.125 million dollars as healthy scratches, Todd White and Matt Gilroy. The longer they carry them, the more salary counts against their cap, which may make it more difficult to add a large salary, say a Brad Richards. Sather doesn’t want to send top young assets for Richards, since he could possibly get him for free on July 1st.
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Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Michael Leighton or Brian Boucher could be put on waivers once the Leighton’s conditioning stint is over. The Peguins “emphatically say” they are not going to trade Evgeni Malkin for wingers for Sidney Crosby.
Markov could be out a year after surgery … Flyers will need to make a roster move … Sens could trade Lee if… Funny goal celebration video
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Videos on December 2nd, 2010
- Tony Marinaro via twitter: A string of tweets regarding Montreal Canadiens defenseman Andrei Markov’s injury:
“Andrei Markov Breaking News Again: Next week, Andrei Markov will undergo surgery to his right knee.”
“As I reported NOV 16: partial tear ACL graft rt knee, large radial tear lateral meniscus, bone contusions & mod. knee joint effusion.”
“The surgery will be performed in Birmingham, Alabama by Dr James Andrews, arguably the most renowned orthopedic surgeon in the world.”
“Dr James Andrews, has treated thousands of athletes. Andrei Markov, could be out as long as 1 year but is expected to make a full recovery.”
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Markov’s agent, Don Meehan, say’s they’ll meet with the Canadiens doctor tomorrow to go over options, with surgery a possibility.
- Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: The Philadelphia Flyers are currently $700,000 under the salary cap, but with Michael Leighton and his $1.55 million cap number returning to the team in less than a week, they’ll have to make a move. Brian Boucher ($925,000) or Leighton (unlikely) could be sent to the AHL, Ian Laperriere ($1.67 million) or Matt Walker ($1.7 million) could be put on LTIR.
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: Several teams would be interested in trading for Ottawa Senators defenseman Brian Lee (cleared waivers) but they’d want the Sens to take back similar money, $875,000.
- Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun: Maple Leafs forward Mike Brown has a badly broken finger after blocking a shot on Tuesday, and could be out 4 to 6 weeks if he requires surgery. John Mitchell will likely take Brown’s spot on the 4th line. Colby Armstrong practiced but could still be a few days away. JS Giguere will likely be back on Saturday.
- Jeff Klein of the NY Times: Sean Avery will join the New York Rangers top line tonight with Marian Gaborik and Erik Christensen. Tortorella wants to take advantage of Avery’s speed and forechecking skills.
- Michael Russo via twitter: Russo thinks that Mikael Grunland, Minnesota’s 2010 1st round pick will head over to North America next season.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: The Bruins are under the salary cap and won’t have to move anyone for the moment. Dater thinks they won’t move Blake Wheeler when they have to clear some cap space.
- From a High School game ….
Afternoon NHL roundup – Nov. 30th 2010
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on November 30th, 2010
- Tim Sassone via twitter: Marian Hossa will be of the Blackhawks lineup for 2-3 weeks.
- Rich Chere via twitter: Jamie Langenbrunner hopes to be back in the New Jersey Devils lineup on Thursday.
- Allan Walsh via twitter: Pierre-Marc Bouchard will be returning to the Minnesota Wild lineup tomorrow night.
- Curtis Zupke via twitter: Lines at Ducks practice today: Selanne-Getzlaf-Perry and Blake-Koivu-Ryan.
- Kevin Allen via twitter: The Philadelphia Flyers loan Michael Leighton to Adirondack for a 6 day conditioning stint.
- Jonas Siegel via twitter: Colby Armstrong says he’s getting close to returning to the Maple Leafs lineup, took part in full practice today.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Brian Lee was placed on waivers today by the Ottawa Senators. Calgary’s Stefan Meyer cleared waivers.
- James Mirtle via twitter: It will be a Dan Ellis – Jonas Gustavsson goaltending match-up tonight.
- Dave Stubbs via twitter: Martin Brodeur won’t be ready to Thursday’s game against the Canadiens.
- Capgeek via twitter: The Atlanta Thrashers have signed Tim Stapleton to a 2 year deal.
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: Chris Drury was hoping to return this weekend or early next week, but that will be delayed as his CT-scan on this broken finger showed it hasn’t completely healed yet.
Savard to practice, still 6-8 weeks away … Jarome continues to struggle in Calgary … Leighton returns to practice … plus more
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on November 11th, 2010
- Kevin Paul Dupont of the Boston Globe: Marc Savard will begin practicing in the next 2-3 days with the Bruins. ”He’s doing much, much better,” said Chiarelli. ”He has been symptom-free for a while now, increasing his skating…all in all, he looks good.” He’s still 6-8 weeks away from returning to the lineup.
- Scott Cruickshank of the Calgary Herald: Jarome Iginla continues to struggle, dating back to last season, he’s scored only 3 goals in the last 3o games. “All Sutter hasn’t done? Drastically reducing Iginla’s ice time. Some nights, sure, it’s curbed.” Could Iginla’s days be winding down in Calgary? What could they get for him?
- Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun: The Maple Leafs are on a 7 game losing streak, 1-7-3 in their last 11 games. “Wednesday’s result may or may not fast track general manager Burke’s itchy cell phone finger. With other struggling NHL clubs getting closer to the unofficial U.S. Thanksgiving player movement window, Burke is also watching a Marlies’ farm team on a five-game points’ run.”
- Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: Philadelphia Flyers goaltender Michael Leighton returned to practice yesterday. Leighton had back surgery on Oct. 11th and was expected to miss 6-8 weeks. He’s likely 2 weeks away from returning, Nov. 22nd against Montreal could be his first game back. The play of rookie Sergei Bobrovsky (2.19 GAA and .926 SV%) may effect his playing time as well.
- David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News: Marleau, Thornton and Heatley were back together at practice yesterday. Ryane Clowe, Logan Couture and Joe Pavelski made up another line.
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Before last night’s game, Matt Beleskey and Dan Sexton were activated from the IR, and then sent to Syracuse of the AHL. The Ducks will take a longer look at Nick Bonino and Kyle Palmieri. Sheldon Brookbank is day-to-day with a hamstring injury, Luca Sbisa was recalled and took his place.
- Helene Elliott of the LA Times: Kyle Clifford will play in his 10th game tonight, burning a year of his pro contract. Brayden Schenn will likely be returned to Junior, “My gut feel on it is that he might need to go back and play, go to junior and play,” Murray said.
- Dan O’Neill of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: St. Louis Blues forward TJ Oshie broke his ankle in the 3rd period last night. He’ll be evaluated today to see how long he’ll be out. Andy Strickland via twitter: The Blues are now without 2 of their top 3 forwards, and 3 of their top 6 defenseman.
- Joe Starkey of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: Fleury’s number are bad this year, a 1-6 record, goals-against average (3.54) ranks 37th in a 30-team league. His save percentage (.853) ranks 40th. It might be time to give him a few games as Brent Johnson has given up 11 goals in the last 2 games after last night’s 7-4 loss. Heading into last night’s game Johnson was 6-1-1 and was 4th in GAA and SV%.
Injury notes on Leighton, Giroux, Sutton, Savard, Spezza, and Armstong
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News on October 9th, 2010
- Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: Philadelphia Flyers goalie Michael Leighton will be out 6-8 weeks as he’ll require back surgery. Claude Giroux had x-rays after Thursday’s game, but was back on the ice Friday at practice.
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Anaheim Ducks defenseman Andy Sutton fractured his right thumb last night, he’ll be re-evaluated today. Sutton injured his thumb throwing punches at ex-Duck Ruslan Salei during a scrum. He had a cast on after the game. Luca Sbisa will take his place.
- Joe Haggerty via twitter: Haggerty hasn’t been told anything concrete on when Marc Savard could return, but he wouldn’t be surprised if Savard has held out until Christmas.
- Rob Longley via twitter: Jason Spezza says he’ll miss “one or two games” with a groin injury. Game 2 would be against the Leafs tonight.
- Lance Hornby and Rob Longley of the Toronto Sun: Maple Leafs winger Colby Armstrong (foot) wasn’t at practice yesterday as he was held out as a precaution after blocking a shot on Thursday.
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.
- Katie Strang via twitter: The Islanders have signed defenseman Mike Mottau to a 2 year deal.
- 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.
- Pavel Lysenkov via twitter: Marek Svatos has officially signed with the KHL’s Omsk.
- Pavel Lysenkov via twitter: Brendan Bell has left Omsk with consent.
Finger and Kadri could be cap casualties … 84 game schedule? Leighton MRI results today … If the Wild look for a new backup goalie….
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on September 27th, 2010
- James Mirtle of the Globe and Mail: If the Toronto Maple Leafs keep both Jeff Finger and Nazem Kadri on the roster, they will be slightly over the cap, if they demote both, they could be about $4.6 million under. The Leafs are working with a reduced cap of $58 million, due to going over the cap last year with bonuses. Finger has yet to play in a pre-season game as he’s nursing a knee injury. Burke said he’ll likely carry 8 defenseman to start the year. I think both Finger and Kadri should start the year with the Marlies. So far this pre-season, Kadri has shown that he’s not ready for the jump to the NHL, which is fine in my opinion. Let him gain some valuable pro experience with the Marlies, who should have a competitive team this year.
- John Shannon of SportsNet: The NHL and the players had talks about a 84 game schedule with a shorter pre-season. It might be worth another look, or at least in the next CBA negotiations. Both sides would like it for more revenue and meaningful games.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: LeBrun doesn’t think Bobby Ryan has looked out of place playing center so far. If Ryan does play center this year, does it drop his fantasy value as he’s not playing with with Getzlaf and Perry?
- Tim Panaccio of CSNPhilly: Philadelphia Flyers goalie Michael Leighton had an MRI on his lower back yesterday and results should be known today.
- Detroit News: Mathieu Dandenault has retired from the NHL (I thought he did couple years ago). Dandenault won 3 cups with the Red Wings, and last played in the NHL in 2008-09 with the Canadiens.
If the Minnesota Wild consider looking for a backup for Niklas Backstrom with Josh Harding out for the year …
- Jim Matheson via twitter: Matheson wonders if the Wild would pickup Jeff Deslauriers on waivers if Devan Dubnyk wins the backup job? Though his $1 million salary may scare them off.
- Helene Elliott via twitter: Elliott thinks the Los Angeles Kings would be happy to send them Erik Ersberg in a deal.
Mueller out with concussion … Goalie injuries in Philly and Minny … Don’t count on Souray being put on waivers today
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News on September 25th, 2010
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: The Colorado Avalanche have lost Peter Mueller with his 2nd concussion in the last 6 months, and 3rd serious concussion in his career. He’s out indefinitely.
- Jim Matheson via twitter: Sheldon Souray can be put on waivers today, but don’t count on the Oilers doing that.
- Mike Zeisberger via twitter: Maple Leafs defenseman Brett Lebda and Matt Lashoff are both out for 10-14 days with shoulder injuries.
- Tim Panaccio via twitter: Flyers GM Paul Holmgren tells CSNPhilly that goaltender Michael Leighton has a lower back issue and the team is “cautiously optimistic.” And so it begins for the Flyers goaltending issues.
- Michael Russo of the Star-Tribune: Wild backup goalie, Josh Harding, suffered a knee injury last night. An MRI will be done today, but a Blues doctor said last night it involves a liagment. Coach Todd Richards, “Right now we’re hoping it’s something minor and something that will take a little bit of rehab, a little bit of time off, and hopefully we can get him back on the ice as soon as possible.” Anton Khudobin is next in line to backup Niklas Backstrom.
- James Mirtle via twitter: Marek Svatos will be joining Jaromir Jagr with Omsk of the KHL.
- Andy Strickland of True Hockey: Carlo Colaiacovo is day-to-day with a lower body injury. He suffered the injury last night trying to knock down a clearing attempt. He’ll be re-evaluated today.
- Steve MacFarlane of the Calgary Sun: Staffan Kronwall realizes he’s probably going to end up in the AHL season, but he’d rather be back in Sweden with his new family. Kronwall hopes that if he’s going to demoted, they could loan him to a European team. “I was hoping to play in Europe this year. If not this year, it’s obviously next year.”
Flyers Re-Sign Michael Leighton
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Trades on June 30th, 2010
The Philadelphia Flyers have come to terms with free agent goalie Michael Leighton to a 2-year, $3.1 million deal.
Leighton will earn $1.5 million next season, and $1.6 million in 2011-12.
The Flyers also have Brian Boucher under contract for next year. They were talking to both Marty Turco and Evgeni Nabokov, but it now appears that they are not in their plans.
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.
Burke outlines what it will take to get Kaberle … Phaneuf to be new Leaf Captain … Would Flyers trade Carter for a frontline goalie?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 12th, 2010
- David Shoatls of the Globe and Mail: Brian Burke confirmed yesterday that Dion Phaneuf will be named captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Maple Leafs haven’t had a captain since Sundin left after the 2007-08 season. Francois Beauchemin and Mike Komisarek will probabaly be assistant captains if Tomas Kaberle is dealt. The Leafs are also unvailing their new jersey (probably just adding the bottom stripes and a patch). Burke also offered this regarding a Kaberle trade, “I’m going to go for the best player I can get to help my team,” Burke said. “If it’s not a good enough player, would I take a first[-round pick], if it’s a second-tier player? Yes.”
- Phil Sheridan of the Philadelphia Inquirer: The Flyers may have do some minor tinkering to their lineup, or they can make some bold moves. They have a young core in Richards, Carter, Giroux, Leino, and van Riemsdyk, but also an older crew; Pronger, Briere, Timonen, Gagne and Laperiere. Michael Leighton could be brought back at a low contract, and they could look to acquire a front line goalie, but does Leighton now think he’s a frontline goalie? Would the Flyers move out Carter to acquire that front line goalie?
- 4period.ru: Reports out of Russia are once again confirming Nikolai Zherdev is looking to come back to the NHL. I wonder if next summer there will be reports that Zherdev is looking to go back the KHL.
- Chip Alexander of Raleigh News & Observer: The Carolina Hurricanes will fill their backup goalie position from within as GM Jim Rutherford has said Justin Peters will backup Cam Ward. Peters spent the majority of the season in the AHL, compiling a 26-18-2 record with a 2.54 GAA and .917 SV%. He made is NHL debut last year while Cam Ward was injured, posting a 6-3-0 record with a 2.83 GAA and .903 SV%.
- George Sipple of the Detroit Free Press: Chris Chelios didn’t say he was going to retire, but he wants to spend more time with his family in Detroit. Please Chris, you’ve had a great career (not including the last couple years), it’s now time to retire.
Win the Cup, get a kick to the gut …Kulemin wants to be a Maple Leaf, a $1 million apart … Broken record in Philly …
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on June 11th, 2010
- James Duthie via Twitter: So the ‘Hawks win the cup, everyone is happy, in the back of the minds of management, they start shaking their heads …. Their salary cap issue already a problem, and now it just got worse. Jonathan Toews received a $1.3 million bonus for winning the Conn Smythe, and since they are already at this years salary cap, it gets applied to next seasons cap number.
- Eric Duhatschek of the Globe and Mail: Duhatschek writes the 6,784th article on the Blackhawks cap issues for next season, with at least another 6,201 to come.
- Mark Everson of the NY Post: The New Jersey Devils are reportedly looking in to Tomas Kaberle, and possibly Dan Hamhuis. Paul Martin is a UFA for them, but could be on his way out after making $4.5 million. Burke may be looking for a solid young player and a draft pick. New Jersey doesn’t have a 1st round pick this year (sent to Atlanta, along with one of their top prospects), their first pick is at #38.
- Jim Jamieson of the Vancouver Province: UFA Dan Hamhuis said there are pros and cons in playing a market like Vancouver. Hamhuis makes his off-season home in his hometown of Smithers, BC. He’s the type of player they would covet this off-season, but may have priced himself out their range. The Canucks made a pitch for him at the deadline, but wouldn’t meet the demands of the Predators. The Preds were after Cody Hodgson and a 1st round pick.
- Kevin McGran of the Toronto Star: Nikolai Kulemin wants to remain a Toronto Maple Leaf, and Maple Leafs are ‘musing’ the idea of signing Tomas Kaberle to a contract extension. The 24-year old Kulemin had 36 points (mostly from playing on the “Top Line” of Phil Kessel and Tyler Bozak [quiet laugh]), and led the Leaf forwards hits (136) and blocked shots (41). It’s thought that Kulemin is looking for $3.5 million, the Leafs are more in the $2.5 million range. “Nikolai would like to stay in Toronto. But right now it’s between me and the general manager,” said Greenstin [Kulemin's agent]. “He’s the best two-way player right now in Maple Leafs organization. He definitely is a top-6 forward. He has a great attitude and he is leading team in blocking shots and hits.” Though an offer sheet is possible, I don’t see anyone offering $3.5 million. Offer Sheet Compensation for 2010 Restricted Free Agents.
- Rich Hofmann of the Philadelphia Daily News: Broken record in Philly, though they made the finals, they need to improve their goaltending this off-season. Leighton was pulled twice in six final games, and let in the winning on a weak wrister from the dot. Hofmann thinks that only Richards, Giroux and Pronger would be untouchable, and use their other assets to get a goalie.
- Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: A reader asks Molinari if the Penguins will bring back Bill Guerin. Molinari doesn’t really answer the question, but points out the lack of scoring depth in this year’s free agent market (lame Top-25 list), and that a deal for Guerin would be short term, it might be a possibility. Another reader asks about Eric Tangradi, who Molinari says will be given every opportunity to make the club in training camp.
- Michael Russo of the Star Tribune: Minnesota Wild forward Pierre-Marc Bouchard has been given the go ahead to start light workouts. Bouchard still feels some symptoms from a concussion, and puts himself at about 85%, but hopes to be ready for training camp.
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.
Coyotes Staying in Phoenix? Sergei Kostitsyn done in Montreal … Flyers free agents
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 8th, 2010
- Scott Burnside of ESPN: Sources have told ESPN Friday night that the Ice Edge Holdings group and city of Glendale are going to sign a letter of exclusivity on Monday, as they’ve agreed on all points on in a new lease agreement. The memorandum won’t be officially submitted to the city for voting until the city and NHL come to agreement on several points, which will be discussed on Tuesday. The NHL wants the city to cover the operating losses for the team if an owner is not found by next year, which could be in the $20-30 million range. If all goes well, it could still take 4-8 weeks before a deal could be finalized. Check out yesterday’s post on Coyotes situation for some more background on what’s been happening.
- Bob McKenzie of TSN: Sergei Kostitsyn has worn out his welcome in Montreal. The players, coaches and managment have about had it with him. He’s a skilled player and could help them out now, but he’s got a bad work ethic and a terrible attitude. Players may be wanting to send him away right away, but coaches and managment are trying to keep this distraction to a minimum.
- Chuck Gormley of the Courier-Post: Gormley looks at the Flyers free agent situation this summer. Aaron Asham, Michael Leighton and Lukas Krajicek have all stated they’d like to return, but no word yet from management if there is an interest in bringing them back. Ray Emery isn’t expected to get a contract offer. The Flyers will most likely send qualifying offers to RFAs Daniel Carcillo, Darroll Powe, Braydon Coburn, and Ryan Parent.
- John Vogl of the Buffalo News: The Buffalo Sabres will be looking for a backup goalie this summer. Patrick Lalime is an option, but I doubt it, they didn’t seem to trust him that much down the stretch to give Miller the time off that he needed. Martin Biron is probably the leading candidate, though they can’t really admit it as he’s still under contract with the Islanders. The Sabres could also go ‘in-house’ with the 21-year old Jhonas Enroth who’s been in the AHL the past 2 seasons.
- Ted Kulfan of the Detroit News: Kirk Maltby’s final practice/game could be approaching. Currently he plans on training this summer like he’ll be returning, but he’s unsure if it will be with the Red Wings. The 37-year old is a UFA at seasons end, may not get a contract offer from the Wings, and may not see himself in another uniform.
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