Posts Tagged Mikhail Grabovski
State of the Washington Capitals: NHL Trade Deadline Edition
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 21st, 2012
Written by Jeff Kleiman of Capitals Outsider (@J_dizzle_caps) and Jake Ware of DC Pro Sports Report (@JacobWare95).
Through 59 games of the 2011/12 NHL season, the perennial playoff contending Washington Capitals sit in ninth place in the Eastern Conference with a decidedly average 29-24-5 record. The Caps look like a shell of the team that they once were, and with the trade deadline now on the horizon, General Manager George McPhee is likely to be very active as he prepares his team for the long months ahead.
With some big free agent signings this past offseason, fans and journalists were lauding the Caps, naming them as runaway Stanley Cup favorites. But with the team not nearly playing up to expectations (despite sprinting out to a 7-0-0 start), the Capitals fired Bruce Boudreau and brought in team legend Dale Hunter to take over behind the bench. They are 17-15-4 since the change, and are still struggling to keep up in the playoff race.
With the Florida Panthers pacing the Southeast Division and the Winnipeg Airplanes hot on their tail, this year’s trade deadline is shaping up to become the most important one in recent memory for the Caps. If they want to bring back the crown they have owned for the past four seasons, the Caps must improve at the deadline.
Grabovski ignores rumors … JVR could return today … Johansen staying … Kubina to hand in list … Devils looking for D
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 18th, 2012
- Mike Zeisberger of the Toronto Sun: Mikhail Grabovski on recent trade talk:
“Nope,” he said. “Haven’t heard it. Don’t think about it. Don’t listen to the radio or read the papers.
“I’m a Toronto Maple Leaf now. I play for the Leafs and I want to keep playing for the Leafs. That’s all I’m thinking about.”
The Maple Leafs won’t move him unless the deal is significant. The ideal trade would be bring them back a player(s) that would help immediately. Burke thinks he could get an offer for 1st and prospect for Grabovski. A Leaf executive said any deal involving picks/prospects would have to “blow us away.” Coach Ron Wilson thinks Grabovski will be re-signed. Numbers being mentioned are in the $5 – $5.4 million range.
- Randy Miller via twitter: The Flyers may be getting James van Riemsdyk back from his concussion for today’s game. “We’ll see,” van Riemsdyk said after practicing Friday at Skate Zone. “Maybe.”
- Shawn Mitchell of the Columbus Dispatch: Blue Jackets rookie Ryan Johansen will be a healthy scratch for the 5th time in 7 games. He’ll finish the year with the Blue Jackets rather than return to Portland of the WHL. Brett Lebda was activated from the IR, and goalie Curtis Sanford was put on the IR with back problems.
- Frank Seravalli of the Philadelphia Daily News: Flyers forward Tom Sestito will be out 6-8 weeks after he’ll have surgery to repair a torn groin muscle.
- Damian Cristodero of the Tampa Bay Times: Pavel Kubina’s agent said that the Lightning could have Kubina’s list of teams he’d accept a trade to as early as Saturday. “Kuby is always a gentleman, so I don’t think it’s going to take seven days. … We’re going to go through some stuff (Saturday) and we’re going to come to some conclusions.”
- Mike Zeisberger of the Toronto Sun: Luke Schenn was pretty surprised when he was made a healthy scratch this week. His name is also in the rumor mill, being tied to James van Riemsdyk and Rick Nash. “I guess it’s all part of playing in Toronto,” said Schenn. Wilson said Schenn will be back in the lineup on Saturday.
- Tom Gulitti of NorthJersey.com: The Devils are looking to add a defenseman by the deadline. Adam Larsson and Henrik Tallinder are out with injuries. Marek Zidlicky would waive his no trade clause to go to the Devils. Zidlicky has 1 year left on his deal. Pavel Kubina and Johnny Oduya will be UFAs after the season.
Leafs get offer for Grabovski … Kings making calls … Jets could use some scoring … Flyers could still be looking at D … Oilers notes
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 17th, 2012
- Darren Dreger via twitter: The Maple Leafs have been offered a 2nd round pick and a prospect for center Mikhail Grabovski. They could get more, and they still hope to re-sign him. The Leafs may keep Grabovski despite contract status, but will consider a 1st round pick, or the existing offer. James Mirtle via twitter: The only way Mirtle sees the Maple Leafs letting Grabovski go is if his contract demands are way to high. The next 10 days will be interesting.
- Scott Burnside and Craig Custance of ESPN: As of yesterday afternoon, the Ducks were 6 points out a playoff spot after a 14-2-3 run. Don’t count on a Ducks fire sale now. Kings GM Dean Lombardi is under pressure to fix their offensive issues, and could be burning the phone lines with Columbus. The Kings may benefit the most from a Rick Nash deal more than any other team. Jeff Carter may be a better fit salary wise for the Kings.
- Jonathan Willis of Hockey Prospectus on ESPN: Ducks defenseman Toni Lydman could be an option for the Capitals. He’s under contract next season, and has fallen out of favor in Anaheim. Canadiens defenseman Chris Campoli could interest the Panthers. Islanders defenseman Milan Jurcina may be a nice fit in Winnipeg.
- Paul Friesen of the Winnipeg Sun: Jets forward Andrew Ladd on what they need at the deadline:
“With the troubles we’ve had scoring, if it’s not going to come from within this room, we probably could use some help, there,” he said. “We’ve got a great goaltender, we’ve got D that can move the puck and play both ways.”
- James Mirtle of the Globe and Mail: Talk of the Leafs doing a deal with the Flyers including Luke Schenn may be off now that they acquired Nicklas Grossman. Mirtle thinks the smart move for the Maple Leafs may be to sit still and take their lumps in the playoffs if they make it.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: The Flyers would like to add 1 more defenseman and looking at all options: Luke Schenn, Jack Johnson and Hal Gill.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: If the Blues were to make a trade for a defenseman, it would be a for a left handed shot. Pavel Kubina doesn’t fit.
- Dan Tencer via twitter: Pierre McGuire said the Devils, Rangers and Bruins would have had interest in Ryan Smyth.
- Louis Jean via twitter: The Canadiens like Travis Moen and are considering keeping him.
- John MacKinnon of the Edmonton Journal: Oilers GM Steve Tambellini won’t jeopardize their young core:
“At no time are we going to be selling anything that is going to hurt our future, what we think is part of our core or something that is going to sustain good play for a long time,” Tambellini told reporters during an Oilers practice at Millennium Place in Sherwood Park. “If it’s something we feel will make us significantly better, long-term and short-term, of course we’ll consider it.
“But nothing for just a short-term gain.”
Ales Hemsky’s desire for a long term deal may signal his end in Edmonton. Tambellini said he isn’t looking to deal Sam Gagner or Nikolai Khabibulin. The Oilers would like to improve along the blueline. Oscar Klefbom and juniors David Musil, Martin Marincin and Martin Gernat are a couple years away.
Friedman talks Nash and deadline … What the Wings are looking for … Leafs should take run at Nash … Miller for Kane? Giggy injured
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 16th, 2012
- Fan 590 Audio: Elliotte Friedman on Prime Time Sports talking about Rick Nash rumors and the trade deadline.
- Fan 590 Audio: Stars GM Joe Nieuwendyk on Hockey Central @ Noon discussing the recent Stars struggles and the trade deadline.
- Ted Kulfan of the Detroit News: Red Wings GM Ken Holland said ‘Nothing is imminent right now,” on the trade front. Holland would like to add some depth. A player with some grit, either up front or on the blueline. A goal scorer would also be nice. He is not interested in adding a goalie. “We like the chemistry of our team,” Holland said. “We like what we have. We feel we have a good team. We’re not going to trade away assets for a player who may not crack our lineup.”
- Craig Custance of ESPN: It’s likely the Red Wings will attempt to bring in depth at the deadline.
“There’s a little more chatter the last few days than there has been because the deadline is coming,” Holland said when we chatted on Tuesday afternoon. “Will we do something? We’re going to explore. We have cap space; we structured it at the beginning of the year that way. We’d like to give our team a bit of a boost.”
The Red Wings can add at least $15 million in salary at the deadline. Teemu Selanne would be a perfect fit. Travis Moen of the Canadiens, Sammy Pahlsson of the Blue Jackets and Paul Gaustad of the Sabres could be options. They won’t be giving up top D prospect Brendan Smith. A NHL scout on the Red Wings deadline strategy:
“For the Red Wings, it’s a matter of what are you willing to give up? You have to be careful; you have to keep your young guys. Depth up front would be great for them, not necessarily on the top two lines but in the bottom six and on defense. You’re not sure what you’re going to get out of Jakub Kindl in a playoff run; you don’t know how much hockey you’re going to get from Mike Commodore. Goaltending is not an issue as long as Jimmy Howard recovers.”
- Mike Zeisberger of the Toronto Sun: Zeisberger thinks the Maple Leafs should take a run at Rick Nash. He has a special combination of skill and strength. If they did bring in Nash, don’t expect Mikhail Grabovski to get his $5 million contract from Burke. GM Scott Howson will demand Jake Gardiner as part of the package.
- Randy Miller via twitter: Miller thinks it may be worth a shot to do a Ryan Miller for Patrick Kane deal as the Blackhawks need a goalie bad. Tim Sassone via twitter: Patrick Kane is “absolutely not” on the trade block.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: The Avalanche lost J.S. Giguere to a groin injury last night. Peter Mueller missed the game with a torso injury, and TJ Galiardi left the game with a torso ailment.
- Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post Dispatch: Struggling Blues forward Chris Stewart found himself practicing with the 4th line yesterday, and is expected to remain their for their game tonight. Carlo Colaiacovo had x-rays on his wrist. Kent Huskins is expected to replace him. Alex Steen practiced but is not close to returning. Andy Strickland via twitter: Colaiacovo has a sprained wrist.
- Randy Miller via twitter: Carle, Bourdon, JVR, Read and Briere were on the Flyers 2nd power play unit yesterday at practice.
- Mike Zeisberger of the Toronto Sun: Maple Leafs defenseman Luke Schenn was made a healthy scratch last night. Keith Aulie replaced Schenn.
- Seth Rorabaugh via twitter: Scouting the Penguins-Ducks game last night: Lightning, Rangers, Bruins, Canucks, Blackhawks, Jets, Avs, Oilers, Kings, Leafs, Devils, Hurricanes, Flyers and Red Wings.
HC Rick Nash Trade Tracker Video … Plus other Rick Nash trade rumors
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Videos on February 15th, 2012
- John Shannon on where Nash could land: Rangers, Maple Leafs, Canucks, and Kings. Lawton lists: Rangers, Kings, Red Wings and Flyers. Both say they need to get a young starting goalie back.
- Mike Zeisberger of the Toronto Sun: Sure the Maple Leafs will be interested in Nash, but it would take a lot to pull it off, with the price getting higher with each passing day. Zeisberger lists some factors that will come into play: 1. Nash’s no-movement clause. He drives the bus. 2. Nash is in the 2nd year of a 8 year, $62.4 million deal, a $7.8 million cap hit. 3. The Blue Jackets are not actively shopping Nash, but will consider offers, and the price will be huge. Maple Leafs names you’ll hear will at least be Mikhail Grabovski, Luke Schenn, Nazem Kadri, James Reimer and Carl Gunnarsson.
- Elliotte Friedman of CBC: The Blue Jackets met last week to discuss Nash’s future, and decide to explore a trade. Apparently, they went to Nash a couple weeks ago about the idea, and were waiting for him to submit a list. Nash was willing to waive his no-movement as they were looking at another rebuild. The Blue Jackets currently have more than $50 million committed against the salary cap next year. 3 aspects that make a Nash deal complicated are: Nash must want to go there, that team has to pay the high asking price, and Nash has to fit into that teams cap structure and dressing room. On the surface the Canucks could be a perfect match with Cory Schneider, Cody Hodgson, Chris Tanev and maybe another piece, but don’t look for that to happen. The Rangers, Maple Leafs, and Flyers may not be scared of adding him. “The tough thing about trades like this one,” said another GM, “is that Columbus is starting in a bad position. Chances are, you’re giving up the best player.” The Maple Leafs may not have what GM Scott Howson wants, mainly goaltending. The Flyers and Kings may have the goalie the Blue Jackets need.
- Michael Arace of the Columbus Dispatch: The Blue Jackets management came to Rick Nash, he did not request a trade. Nash had a feeling they might come asking. Nash did not want a trade, and until last week, they were telling teams he wasn’t going to be traded. There is a chance nothing happens at the deadline and they wait until the summer. Arace wonders that if president Mike Priest and GM Scott Howson put the team in this predicament, how can they be the ones to fix it?
- Adam Kimelman of NHL.com: G Scott Howson told the Columbus Dispatch:
“We’re open to all options to try to improve the team,” Blue Jackets general manager Scott Howson told the newspaper this morning. “As far as rumors go, we’re just not going to comment.”
and Rick Nash said to the Dispatch:
“The last couple of weeks there have been so many rumors,” Nash told the newspaper following the team’s morning skate. “And when a team loses, more rumors keep on surfacing. That’s what it seems to be right now, is just rumors.
“I’m a Blue Jacket right now. I’ve played my whole career here and it’s a special place to me. So as of right now I’m a Blue Jacket.”
Scott Howson to NHL.com on Saturday:
“I’m not going to disclose what we’re going to do, but we certainly have a plan in place,” Howson told NHL.com. “We’re working on it, we’re talking to teams. We’ll see … it’s not just a pre-deadline plan. It’s a plan leading up to the draft and leading into next season. We’ll see what happens before the 27th and we expect to be active.”
- TSN Tradecenter video link: McKenzie notes it could be a 5 team list, and that they could be looking for a young goalie, defenseman and forward for Nash. Canucks, Maple Leafs, Kings, Rangers and Flyers could be the teams. Too many assets to give up, cap number, and how it affects the dressing room are concerns for teams. Brandon Dubinsky’s name has come up with the Rangers. James van Riemsdyk would have be in the mix for the Flyers. The Kings have pieces like Jonathan Bernier, Andrei Loktionov and Slava Voynov. Wild card teams could be the Bruins and Sharks.
Zidlicky waive no-trade for Devils … Caps working phones … Pens get cavity seach … Leaf notes … Ruutu out 3 weeks … Scouts for 2 games
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on February 15th, 2012
- Darren Dreger via twitter: Marek Zidlicky has agreed to waive his no-trade clause to go to the Devils. A deal isn’t done yet.
- Elliotte Friedman of CBC: No GM is burning up the phone more than Capitals GM George McPhee. After landing in Toronto part way through their back-to-back games on Jan. 31st, the Penguins got a full-body cavity search when they got off the plane. The Maple Leafs don’t want to go above $5 million for Mikhail Grabovski. Grabovski’s side are looking at something along the lines of Phil Kessel’s $5.4 million. A source said that the Canucks might be a landing spot for Jeff Carter. Years ago the Canucks and Flyers talked about a Carter-Kesler deal. Carter’s deal doesn’t fit into the Canucks pay structure now though.
- Craig Custance of ESPN: Burke would love to Ryan Getzlaf, but it wouldn’t likely happen to the summer, if at all. The Leafs may not want to meet the asking price for Rick Nash. They’d like James van Riemsdyk, but he’s out with a concussion. A rival NHL executive on Burke:
“He’s a deal-maker. He likes to make deals if there’s a common fit. He’s very fair when you’re trying to make a deal. [Assistant GM Dave] Nonis does some of the groundwork, but Burkie likes to keep his nose in there. He’s famous for his texting and emailing.”
There are still no plans for the Leafs to trade for a goalie. They don’t have much interest in Jeff Carter. Ryan Malone could be an option, but he has a no-movement clause, the Lightning aren’t sellers yet, and he has 4 years left at $4.5 million. Malone could come cheap. For the right deal they could move one of their defenseman: Carl Gunnarsson, Luke Schenn, Keith Aulie or Cody Franson. They haven’t ruled out moving Mikhail Grabovski. One scout on the Leafs deadline strategy:
“Everyone wants to get bigger and skilled, and it’s hard to get. They’re not a dime a dozen. Personally, their goaltending and back end would be a bit of a concern for me. Their coach, Ron Wilson — and I’m not a big fan of him — seems to be getting the most out of his players. I didn’t think [Joffrey] Lupul would keep this pace; him and Kessel obviously have chemistry. That’s great for Toronto. [Grabovski] is trending up, but he’s not the biggest guy. In the playoffs, you have to be able to wear down teams. When you’re small and finishing checks, you’re still not making the D work that hard. I think Columbus would jump all over [a Jeff Carter trade], and I think they would take a little less [than] what Philadelphia got for him. I can see Toronto wanting more up front. I’m not 100 percent sold on their goaltending. I’m not sure they know who their No. 1 guy is. As a team, if you don’t know who you’re going to run with — you just want to have that confidence if you have a bad game your goalie is going to pull one out. I don’t know if Toronto has that.”
- Chris Kuc via twitter: Sources saying the Blackhawks don’t currently have anything going on in the trade front.
- Chip Alexander via twitter: Hurricanes Tuomo Ruutu will miss about 3 weeks with an upper body injury. Corey Masisak via twitter: Doesn’t think that this injury will scare off contenders. Maybe teams that are looking for a boost to get into the playoffs.
- Rich Chere via twitter: Travis Zajac will begin skating by the end of the week.
- Eric Stephens via twitter: Scouting the Ducks-Wild game last night (teams on seating chart): Blackhawks, Coyotes, Jets, Sharks, Oilers and Canucks.
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: Scouting the Blues-Blue Jackets last night: Lightning, Stars, Avalanche, Hurricanes, Kings, Penguins and 2 from Washington.
Morning Rumors involving the Coyotes, Islanders, Senators, Ducks, Lightning, Leafs, Flyers, Pens, Canadiens, Rangers, Kings, Wild, Stars and Blues
Posted by Neal Wright in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 10th, 2012
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: If the Coyotes fall out of contention, Ray Whitney could become available. Whitney has a no-movement clause that lists 8 teams he’s willing to be traded to. The Bruins, Rangers and Sharks could be interested. Islanders GM Garth Snow on the trade front and re-signing of Evgeni Nabokov: “We have no intention of moving Evgeni,” Snow said. “He’s been great for us. His performance speaks for itself.” … on re-signing “Yeah, we’d consider all options, we’re just not at that point yet.” Snow has begun talks with P.A. Paranteau. Senators GM Bryan Murray: “We’ll see if there’s anything that makes sense, but in all likelihood it’s status quo at the moment, anyway.” If the Ducks are going to move one of their big players, it may happen in the offseason as opposed to the deadline. The Ducks could move Lubomir Visnovsky, but they aren’t going to give him away. Lightning defenseman Pavel Kubina has a limited no-trade clause. Kubina submits a 5 team list, he hasn’t been asked yet. Mikhail Grabovski’s agent, who recently met with the Leafs:
“I spoke with Maple Leafs management a couple days ago and I believe they understand our position and we understand their position,” Greenstin told ESPN.com via email Wednesday. “Like I said before, Mikhail loves the city, organization and the fans, and we know the fans like him too. He would like to stay in Toronto and win the Stanley Cup with them, but he is in his prime years in his hockey career and this has to be right for Mikhail and it has to be right for the Maple Leafs.”
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: (Chat) LeBrun doesn’t think the Ducks will trade Getzlaf or Ryan at the deadline unless they get a crazy offer. The Flyers are trying to add a defenseman with experience. LeBrun also thinks the Flyers should add some depth at forward. It’s hard to tell if the Blue Jackets will be able to find a taker for Jeff Carter at this point. On the Penguins search list are Travis Moen and Dominic Moore. The Canadiens could move Hal Gill and Moen. The Blues may look to add a forward if one of Andy McDonald or Alex Steen doesn’t make it back or isn’t playing like their old self. LeBrun doesn’t think they’ll get their #1 center by the deadline. The Rangers are not interested in Marek Zidlicky. The Lightning could move defensemen Brett Clark and Pavel Kubina. The Kings are looking to upgrade their top 6.
- Terry Koshan of the Toronto Sun: Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke said “It’s very quiet,” with regards to the trade front.
- Michael Russo of the Star Tribune: Russo thinks the Wild have a strong interest in Hurricanes Tuomo Ruutu. The asking price is high as their are many teams interested in him. Rutherford hopes to have a decision made by the start of next week as to whether they will re-sign him or trade him. Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: Rutherford told ESPN: “So our priority now is to try and re-sign him.”
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: Heika doesn’t think the Stars will be buyers at the deadline unless they win their next 6 or 7. They should have a better idea on Feb. 20th. Heika thinks they need to either sign Nicklas Grossman to a 4 or 5 year deal at $3 million a season or trade the pending UFA.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: Heika thinks it might be a good idea to keep Mike Ribeiro as opposed to trading him, especially if they bring in another top 6 to play with Jamie Benn. Riberio is being used in a #1 center role, but may be better suited as a #2 center.
- Jeff Gordon of the St. Louis Post Dispatch: Gordon doesn’t see why there are rumors that the Blues need to add a defenseman like Hal Gill or Andy Sutton. Their pairings are playing well and they have Kent Huskins in reserve.
- Dave Feschuk of the Toronto Star: Luke and Brayden Schenn shrug off trade rumors:
“(The Luke-to-Philly rumour) has obviously been tossed around for the past month and a bit,” Brayden said. “It’s hard to go around naive and don’t read anything or hear anything or watch TV. You come to the rink the next day and there’s going to be someone talking about it. Obviously (Luke’s) name has been tossed out there over the past month and a bit. But those are just rumours and I guess we’ll see what happens.”
Said Luke: “One day it would be cool to play together down the road. But right now I’m happy in Toronto and would love to be a part of the Leafs organization. In saying that, you also can’t control what goes on as far as trades go and the trade deadline . . . Anyone can get traded.”
HockeyCentral Trade Tracker Videos: Forwards
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Rumors, NHL Videos on February 9th, 2012
Follow the below link to a collection of Sportsnet’s HockeyCentral Trade Tracker videos.
The forward collection includes: Tuomo Ruutu, Brenden Morrow, Mikhail Grabovski, We’ll update more when they do. They’ve taken down Teemu Selanne, Ales Hemsky, Derek Roy and Bobby Ryan videos for some reason.
Oils want a Dman … Bruins want depth … MacArthur “Rumors suck” … CSKA wants Radulov … Koivu close … Filatov demoted … Starting goalies
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Starting Goalies on January 31st, 2012
- Elliotte Friedman of CBC: Don’t be surprised if Predators GM David Poile announces that he won’t trade Ryan Suter. The Preds were one team who sent a private jet to pick up there All-Stars: Suter, Shea Weber and Craig Smith. The Oilers are letting teams know they want a defenseman if/when they trade some of their assets. Bruins coach Claude Julien would like to see them add an experienced depth defenseman and a depth forward.
- Terry Koshan of the Toronto Sun: The Maple Leafs and Mikhail Grabovski are not involved in serious contract talks. Grabovski shrugs off trade rumors that involve him as part of a package. Clarke MacArthur’s name is also coming up in rumors.
“There is always something every day,” MacArthur said. “Usually if I don’t hear it, I get a text message from someone saying they heard a rumour. It’s tiring, it’s hard on you, but it is a part of the job.
“(Rumours) suck, but what are you going to do? If you look close, I have a few grey hairs.”
The Leafs have been linked to Ryan Getzlaf, Bobby Ryan, Ales Hemsky, Tuomo Ruutu and Ryane Clowe recently.
- Gordon McIntyre of the Vancouver Province: The Canucks need to add a top 4 defenseman as insurance and some grit up front. Mason Raymond will hear is name is rumors often. The Canucks could use someone like Travis Moen.
- Slava Malamud via twitter: CSKA is making a pitch for Alexander Radulov with intent of signing him to a long-term contract. CSKA has lots of oil money. Radulov has a “gentleman’s agreement” with Salavat that he can leave for the NHL (Preds) this summer despite his contract. CSKA is trying to buy his rights.
- BD Gallof via twitter: Gallof says not to assume that the Islanders will trade Evgeni Nabokov.
- David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News: Sharks defenseman Brent Burns is expected to return tonight. Forward Ryane Clowe status is uncertain.
- Michael Russo of the Star Tribune: Wild Guillaume Latendresse and Mikko Koivu were practicing yesterday, but neither’s return is imminent. Josh Harding will start tonight.
“They’re going to need some time getting acclimated to the group again and getting involved in practices and doing things at game speed and executing at that level before they can jump into the lineup,” said Yeo, adding that he believes Koivu is “much closer” to playing than Latendresse.
- Pavel Lysenkov via twitter: Nikita Filatov has been assigned to the CSKA’s minor league team.
- Paul Hendrick via twitter: Leafs coach Ron Wilson doesn’t expect John-Michael Liles, Colby Armstrong and Darryl Boyce to play tonight. Wednesday is a possibility.
- Erik Erlendsson via twitter: Lightning’s Ryan Malone and Marc-Andre Bergeron won’t play tonight. Mathieu Garon will start in net.
- Chris Kuc via twitter: Cory Schneider will start in net for the Canucks tonight against the Blackhawks.
- David Alter via twitter: Jonas Gustavsson will start in net tonight against the Penguins. Wednesday’s starter is not determined yet.
Watters drops a big Maple Leafs – Blue Jackets rumor
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Rumors on January 30th, 2012
1:06 PM:
Darren Dreger via twitter: “A couple of sketchy trade rumours out there. Can tell you the Leafs, according to Burke have never discussed Nash trade…”Ever.”"
10:10 AM:
Bill Watters via twitter: Watters drops this NHL rumor today …. The Maple Leafs would get Rick Nash and Kristian Huselius from the Blue Jackets for Mikhail Grabovski, Luke Schenn, Nazem Kadri and Mike Komisarek.
I think a similar rumor was dropped a week ago by @Incarceratedbob
Nash carries a $7.8 million cap hit until 2017-18. Huselius carries a $4.75 million cap and will be a UFA at the end of the season. Combined total for this year is $12.55 million.
Grabovski carries a $2.9 million cap hit this year and will be a UFA at the end of the year. Schenn signed a 5 year contract with a $3.6 million cap hit before this season. Kadri will have one more season after this year with a $1.72 million cap hit. Komisarek has a $4.5 million hit for the next 2 years. Combined total for his year is $12.72 million.
Late morning rumors involving: Karlsson, Parise, Moore, Grabovski, MacArthur, Gleason, Mason, Subban, Thomas and Morrow
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on January 29th, 2012
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: The Senators will start serious talks with defenseman Erik Karlsson’s agent next week.
“We do have to talk,” Murray said Saturday. “In the next week or so, we either have to make a phone call or they have to make a phone call to at least initiate some discussion.” Murray said
Don’t expect the Devils to trade Zach Parise. He’s a UFA on July 1st and there haven’t been any talks. The Kings and Wild will be interested in Parise on July 1st. Lightning Dominic Moore is getting interest, and the Sens may make a pitch. The Maple Leafs have been tossing Mikhael Grabovski and Clarke MacArthur’s names in trade talks.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: The Blackhawks could have interest in Hurricanes Tim Gleason, as would half a dozen other teams. The Blue Jackets are trying to move Steve Mason but are not finding takers with his $3.2 million salary. They may have to put him on re-entry to see if someone would take him at half price. Don’t expect the Canadiens to move P.K. Subban. Tim Thomas’s no trade clause expires July 1st. Thomas would be in the last year of his deal, and will have a $3 million salary with a $5 million cap hit. Matheson thinks that Brenden Morrow could be a good fit with the Sharks, Canucks or Red Wings.
Morrow available? List of players who “could actually impact the playoff races” … Parise not getting traded … Blake drawing interest … 3 “serious” buyers for Coyotes
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on January 27th, 2012
- Bob McKenzie of TSN: There is some talk around the league that Stars forward Brenden Morrow “may” become available before the trade deadline. The Stars are in 10th spot, but only 3 points out and have played less games. Morrow has a no-trade clause and one more year left with a $4.1 cap hit. The Stars won’t aggressively shop him, but contenders could target him. If the Stars could get a nice young package for him, and if he’d agree to it, they would have to consider it. A Stars source said they’re “probably not” going to trade him. One team executive heard:
“Morrow might be available” and “we certainly intend to find out if he is.”
- Jeff Gordon of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: Gordon lists some players that “could actually impact the playoff races”: Mikhail Grabovski, Nikolai Kulemin, Antoine Vermette, Andrei Kostitsyn, Martin Havlat, Mason Raymond, Evgeni Nabokov, Luke Schenn, Tim Gleason, Antero Niittymaki, Hal Gill, and Marek Zidlicky.
- Roger Hensley of the St. Louis Post Dispatch: If the Blues need to add a proven scorer is a tough question to answer. Will they be fine when Alex Steen and Andy McDonald return from injury? There may not be a lot of legit scores that are available, and what would be the cost to get one? If Steen and McDonald return, Hensley doesn’t think they need to bring in scoring help, but if they don’t, they may need to explore some other options.
- Rich Chere of the Star-Ledger: Devils goalie Martin Brodeur has said he’s having fun this year and is leaning towards coming next year. Chere notes that Zach Parise won’t be dealt at the trade deadline, but the odds of him re-signing with them are 50-50.
- Jason Botchford in the National Post: Canucks forward Mason Raymond has battled his way back from a broken back this year, but he hasn’t been producing and could find his days in Vancouver numbered. He’s well liked, a good penalty killer, has good wheels, but has only scored 33 goals in his last 171 games.
- Chris Botta via twitter: Ducks Jason Blake is getting some trade interest. Botta notes that the Ducks got better when he returned from injury.
- Tim Sassone via twitter: If Ducks Jason Blake is available, Sassone thinks he’d look good as the Blackhawks 2nd line center. He wonders if Bob Murray would trade with Stan Bowman. (I don’t think Blake has played center at any point in his NHL career)
- John Wawrow (AP) in the Globe and Mail: Gary Bettman says there are 3 groups that are showing “serious” interest in the buying the Coyotes that would keep the team there. One of the groups is led by former Sharks president and CEO Greg Jamison and the other is Jerry Reinsdorf.
“We’re going to try to avoid a move of the Coyotes, but if we don’t sell the club, I’m not sure that this won’t be the last season here,” he said.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Senators captain on Daniel Alfredsson on playing next year:
“The way this season is going, if I’m still healthy after this season, I’m hoping I can go one more,” said Alfredsson. “This year has been so good. If we can make the playoffs, that would almost be a dream come true.”
- David Pollak via twitter: The Sharks have traded defenseman Sean Sullivan to the Panthers for Tim Kennedy.
No one has heard that Subban is availabe … Friendman’s 30 Thoughts rumors … Nothing imminent for Leafs … Coyotes update … Hedman hopes for next week
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL News, NHL Rumors on January 25th, 2012
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: LeBrun clarifies his comments on RDS. LeBrun talked with several teams yesterday and NONE have heard Canadiens defenseman P.K. Subban’s name being available. What LeBrun said on RDS was that a team suggested it could be a possibility, though they hadn’t talked to the Canadiens. Louis Jean via twitter: All the Subban trade talk is “completely ludicrous.”
- Elliotte Friedman of CBC: If the Canadiens end up looking for a new GM at some point, don’t count out former Avalanche GM Francois Giguere. After the Blues signed Brian Elliott to a 2 year deal, AHL goalie Ben Bishop’s name hit the rumor mill. GMs have now said that Elliott’s trade value has now gone up with his affordable deal. Lightning GM Steve Yzerman is “pulling back” in his quest for a goalie and defenseman.
“He’s made it clear that he’d rather wait than rush through a trade,” said another executive. Yzerman, via email, said, “We aren’t in a position to trade draft picks or young players for rentals.”
Blue Jackets forwards Derick Brassard is off the market. R.J. Umberger might get some interest. A couple teams have heard that Ryan Suter is off the market. The Predators are not interested in a Ryan Ellis or Jon Blum/1st round pick for Ales Hemsky. Sabres Paul Gaustad could be a nice fit in San Jose. One GM thought Wild defenseman Marek Zidlicky would fit well in San Jose. One of the reasons the Maple Leafs could be looking to move an NHL defenseman is to create room for Korbinian Holzer. Friedman has heard the Maple Leafs could consider moving Mikhail Grabovski, they are listening to offers. He’s a pending UFA and the Leafs could see the dollar amount an issue. They are also listening on Nikolai Kulemin.
- David Alter via twitter: Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke said last night that nothing is imminent on the trade front, lots of listening. Burke added that he doesn’t have a problem keeping pending UFA Mikhail Grabovski past the trade deadline without a new contract.
- Lisa Halverstadt of the Arizona Republic: Glendale City Council met yesterday for an update on the Coyotes situation. The mayor wonders if the NHL is asking price will force the Glendale to pay more. The NHL is trying to get $170 million for the Coyotes, Forbes says they are worth about $36 million less.
“I think it has kept other potential buyers out of the process of trying to purchase the team and I think it is definitely impacting the financial burden that’s being asked of the city of Glendale,” she said.
Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly:
“We bought this franchise out of bankruptcy when no one else would, and we and our owners have jointly supported its operation for more than two years now,” Daly said. “We and the city of Glendale have a joint problem and we are jointly trying to fix it.”
- Erik Erendsson of the Tampa Tribune: Lightning defenseman Victor Hedman, who has been out since Dec. 27th with a concussion, practiced yesterday in a no-contact jersey. He’s hoping to return next Tuesday against the Capitals.
- John Vogl via twitter: Sabres forward Jochen Hecht has a concussion. He skated yesterday but felt awful after and headed to the doctors.
- David Staples of the Edmonton Journal: TSN’s Bob McKenzie reported that Oilers GM Steve Tambellini will likely get a 1 or 2 year contract extension. McKenzie said during last night’s Oilers telecast:
“I think he’ll probably get one (a new deal). I think the way the team finishes from now to the end of the season might not make it completely ironclad.”
Leafs getting offers for Franson … Kovalchuk to return … 2 to waivers … Grabovski out 2 weeks … Schenn practices … Starting goalies
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News on November 16th, 2011
- Darren Dreger via twitter: The Maple Leafs have been offered a player and a 2nd round pick from an undisclosed team for defenseman Cody Franson. Tony Ambrogio via twitter: Leafs GM Brian Burke told the Fan 590 that he’s getting “deluged with trade offers” for Franson but has no plans to deal him. Fan 590 audio: Brian Burke on the Fan.
- Mark Spector via twitter: Spector thinks the Oilers have been calling about Maple Leafs defenseman Cody Franson. He thinks there is a trade to be made there.
- Rich Chere via twitter: Devils Ilya Kovalchuck will be back in the lineup. He’ll play RW with Zach Parise and Adam Henrique. Nick Palmieri will be on a line with Ryan Carter and David Clackson.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: The Blackhawks have put Rostislav Olesz on waivers. The Blue Jackets put Cody Bass on waivers.
- John Lu via twitter: Penguins captain Sidney Crosby won’t be playing tomorrow in Tampa Bay, but will be traveling with the team.
- Paul Hendricks via twitter: Leafs forwards Clarke MacArthur and Mikhail Grabovski are expected to miss at least 2 weeks. Matt Frattin was given a personal day today. Jonas Siegel via twitter: Coach Ron Wilson is unsure on MacArthur’s status. Leafs likely to dress 7 defenseman tomorrow against the Predators.
- Tony Ambrogio via twitter: Maple Leafs lines at practice: Lupul-Bozak-Kessel, Crabb-Connolly-Kulemin, Lombardi-Steckel-Brown, Rosehill-Dupuis.
- Frank Seravalli via twitter: Flyers Brayden Schenn was back practicing with the team for the 1st time since fracturing his foot on Oct. 26th.
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Martin Brodeur will start in net for the Devils tonight against the Sabres.
- Paul Hendricks via twitter: Ben Scrivens will start in net for the Maple Leafs tomorrow.
- Erik Erlendsson via twitter: Dwayne Roloson will start in net for the Lightning tomorrow. There is a “minimal” chance that Ryan Malone plays, unsure on Teddy Purcell according to coach Guy Boucher.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Jaroslav Halak will start in net for the Blues tomorrow.
Injury notes on Cammalleri, Upshall, Samuelsson, Grabovski, MacArthur, Luongo, Goligoski, Bogosian and Slater
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News on November 16th, 2011
- Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette: The Canadiens have called up defenseman Frederic St. Denis as Hal Gill may not be able to go due to a flu, and Jaroslav Spacek is doubtful with an upper-body injury. Forward Mike Cammalleri expects to return to the lineup, a final decision will be made today. Andrei Markov practiced with the team for the 2nd consecutive day.
- George Richards of the Miami Herald: Panthers winger Scottie Upshall will be out 6-8 weeks with a hip injury. They hope he won’t need surgery. Mikael Samuelsson should be joing the Panthers soon. He’s had some visa issues and hasn’t played with Panthers yet as he’s had complications from his sports hernia surgery.
- Dave Feschuk of the Toronto Star: Maple Leafs lost 2/3′s of their 2nd line last night. Mikhail Grabovski left with a lower-body injury and Clarke MacArthur left with an upper-body injury. David Alter via twitter: If MacArthur and Grabovski are out, don’t expect the Maple Leafs to call up Joe Colborne as he’s coming off a lower-body injury.
- Jason Botchford of the Vancouver Province: The Canucks will start Cory Schneider tonight as Roberto Luongo is out with an upper-body injury. Coach Alain Vigneault said the injury was not serious.
“With what happened in the Buffalo-Boston game there, I’m going to just say it’s an upper body injury,” Vigneault said. “We’re not quite sure what’s allowed on the goaltenders and what’s not allowed.
“I’m very serious. I always in the regular season tell you what’s going on with the players.”
Luongo was hit in the mask with a Mark Streit shot on Sunday. Since Vigneault said it was an upper-body injury, it fuel speculation that he’s suffering from concussion-like symptoms. He also did the splits on the rebound, so it’s possible that he tweaked his groin.
- Dallas Morning News: The Stars have put Alex Goligoski on the IR with broken thumb.
- Paul Friesen of the Winnipeg Sun: Jets defenseman Zach Bogosian and forward Jim Slater were both injured during Monday’s game, and their status for Thursday is uncertain.
2012 NHL Free Agents – unrestricted Centermen
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents on November 9th, 2011
Here is an early look at 2012 NHL free agents – unrestricted centermen. It doesn’t look like a strong free agent crop again this year.
I’ve broken the NHL free agent list by position, and ranked free agents by their 2011-12 salary cap number.
| Player | 2011-12 Team | 11-12 Cap Hit | Contract Notes |
| Daymond Langkow | Phoenix Coyotes | $4,500,000 | |
| Tuomo Ruutu | Carolina Hurricanes | $3,800,000 | Re-signed with the Hurricanes. 4 years, $19 million. |
| Jarret Stoll | Los Angeles Kings | $3,600,000 | |
| Jochen Hecht | Buffalo Sabres | $3,525,000 | |
| Olli Jokinen | Calgary Flames | $3,000,000 | |
| Mikhail Grabovski | Toronto Maple Leafs | $2,900,000 | Re-signed with Leafs. 5 years, $27.5 million |
| Jiri Hudler | Detroit Red Wings | $2,875,000 | |
| Jason Arnott | St. Louis Blues | $2,800,000 | |
| Samuel Pahlsson | Vancouver Canucks | $2,650,000 | |
| Saku Koivu | Anaheim Ducks | $2,500,000 | |
| Paul Gaustad | Nashville Predators | $2,300,000 | |
| Chris Kelly | Boston Bruins | $2,125,000 | |
| Steven Reinprecht | Vancouver Canucks | $2,050,000 | |
| Jay McClement | Colorado Avalanche | $1,450,000 | |
| Torrey Mitchell | San Jose Sharks | $1,366,667 | |
| Brendan Morrison | Chicago Blackhawks | $1,250,000 | |
| Kyle Brodziak | Minnesota Wild | $1,150,000 | |
| Gregory Campbell | Boston Bruins | $1,100,000 | |
| Dominic Moore | San Jose Sharks | $1,100,000 | |
| Jim Slater | Winnipeg Jets | $1,000,000 | |
| Daniel Winnik | Colorado Avalanche | $950,000 | |
| Erik Christensen | Minesota Wild | $925,000 | |
| Lennart Petrell | Edmonton Oilers | $900,000 | |
| Alexandre Giroux | Columbus Blue Jackets | $825,000 | |
| Colin Fraser | Los Angeles Kings | $825,000 | |
| Jeff Halpern | Washington Capitals | $825,000 | |
| Jake Dowell | Dallas Stars | $800,000 | |
| Brandon Prust | New York Rangers | $800,000 | |
| Toby Petersen | Dallas Stars | $775,000 | |
| Ryan Carter | New Jersey Devils | $750,000 | |
| Jesse Winchester | Ottawa Senators | $750,000 | |
| Tim Wallace | New York Islanders | $700,000 | |
| Zenon Konopka | Ottawa Senators | $700,000 | |
| Blair Betts | Philadelphia Flyers | $700,000 | |
| Scott Nichol | St. Louis Blues | $700,000 | |
| Kyle Wellwood | Winnipeg Jets | $700,000 | |
| Jean-Francois Jacques | Anaheim Ducks | $650,000 | |
| John Mitchell | New York Rangers | $650,000 | |
| Mike Zigomanis | Toronto Maple Leafs | $650,000 | |
| Patrick O’Sullivan | Phoenix Coyotes | $625,000 | |
| Trevor Frischmon | New York Islanders | $615,000 | |
| Aaron Volpotti | Vancouver Canucks | $612,500 | |
| Marc-Antoine Pouliot | Phoenix Coyotes | $605,000 | |
| Josh Hennessy | Boston Bruins | $600,000 | |
| Derek MacKenzie | Columbus Blue Jackets | $600,000 | |
| Jeff Taffe | Minnesota Wild | $600,000 | |
| Chris Porter | St. Louis Blues | $600,000 | |
| Josh Green | Edmonton Oilers | $575,000 | |
| Alexandre Bolduc | Phoenix Coyotes | $575,000 | |
| Andrew Murray | San Jose Sharks | $575,000 | |
| Chris Conner | Detroit Red Wings | $550,000 | |
| Greg Rallo | Florida Panthers | $550,000 | |
| Rod Pelley | New Jersey Devils | $550,000 | |
| Corey Locke | Ottawa Senators | $550,000 | |
| Richard Park | Pittsburgh Penguins | $550,000 | |
| Warren Petters | Minnesota Wild | $537,500 | |
| Colin Stuart | Buffalo Sabres | $525,000 | |
| Michael Ryan | Buffalo Sabres | $525,000 | |
| Guillame Desbiens | Calgary Flames | $525,000 | |
| Greg Mauldin | Colorado Avalanche | $525,000 | |
| Frans Nielsen | New York Islanders | $525,000 | Re-signed with the Islanders . 4 years, $11 million. |
| Andre Deveaux | New York Rangers | $525,000 | |
| Colin McDonald | Pittsburgh Penguins | $525,000 | |
| Ryan Craig | Pittsburgh Penguins | $525,000 | |
| Trevor Smith | Tampa Bay Lightning | $525,000 | |
| Andrew Ebbett | Vancouver Canucks | $525,000 | |
| Tim Stapleton | Winnipeg Jets | $525,000 | |
| Jamie Johnson | Detroit Red Wings | $512,500 | |
| Kris Newbury | New York Rangers | $512,500 | |
| Keith Aucoin | Washington Capitals | $512,500 |
Centers | Left Wingers | Right Wingers | Defenseman | Goalies
Grabovski could cost the Leafs … Devils looking at Gagner? Injury updates on Crosby, Keith, Hecht, Malone, Hemsky and Enstrom
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on November 1st, 2011
- Mike Brophy of Sportsnet: Maple Leafs center Mikhail Grabovski is in the final year of his contract where he earns $3.1 million, with a $2.9 million cap hit. Grabovski could easily command $4 – 4.5 million deal for 5 or 6 years. Phillippe Dupuis, John-Michael Liles and Jonas Gustavson will also be UFAs.
“It depends on if he wants to stay in Toronto or if he wants to test the market and go to the highest bidder,” said one agent. “If he stays in Toronto he’ll probably take a little less than what he could get if he goes to another team.”
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: If Sean Avery is claimed off re-entry waivers, the new team would owe him 25%, the Rangers 25% and the Stars 50%.
- Elliotte Freidman of CBC Sports: There were rumors that the Stars may be looking to trade Brendan Morrow, but he has a no-trade clause, and hasn’t been asked to waive it as of yet.
- Mark Everson of the NY Post: The Oilers have a glut of centers and have moved Sam Gagner to the wing. The Devils are thin down the middle at the moment and may have already asked the Oilers about Gagner. The Oilers would reportedly want a young defensive prospect in return, possibly Matt Taormina or Alexander Urbom. They may also require a roster winger and draft pick.
- Alan Robinson in the Globe and Mail: Penguins captain Sidney Crosby ruled himself out for this weeks games. November 11th is likely the earliest he’d return. He won’t be cleared for game action until doctors feel he can handle contact during practice. There hasn’t been much practice time for the Penguins lately.
“It’s not just an automatic thing,” Crosby said. “To go through hitting is a big step. I just want to make sure I get through that. It’s the most important thing — however long that takes. I don’t want to get too far ahead. I just want to make sure it goes well and (I) give myself the best chance to handle it.”
- Chris Kuc via twitter: Blackhawks defenseman Duncan Keith is listed as day-to-day with an upper body injury.
- John Vogl of the Buffalo News: The Sabres have put Jochen Hecht on the IR.
“We’ve shut Jochen down at different times,” Ruff said. “If the doctors feel it’s best to shut him down for a period of time, we’ll shut him down. It’s really in their hands. It isn’t up to our medical staff, and it isn’t up to Jochen. We’re under some guidance, and we’ve got to trust what our people are telling us.”
- Damian Cristodero of the St. Petersburg Times: Lightning forward Ryan Malone had X-rays on his upper body injury after Saturday’s game against the Jets, which were negative. He’s day-to-day and may not play tonight against the Hurricanes.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Oilers forward Ales Hemsky could return in a week, and the Oilers will have to figure out what to do with Linus Omark, who’s been a healthy scratch for 5 consecutive games. He would have to clear waivers since he’s played over 60 games. The Hurricanes are looking for forwards.
- Gary Lawless of the Winnipeg Free Press: Jets defenseman Tobias Enstrom was hit in the 2nd period by Panthers Jack Skille and didn’t return for the 3rd period.
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