Posts Tagged Peter Mueller

Ron Wilson’s job is “Safe” … Krejci out with concussion … Schneider trade bait eventually

  • Paul Hunter of the Toronto Star: Brian Burke has said Ron Wilson’s job as the Toronto Maple Leafs coach is “safe”. While he’s not in panic mode, there’s no question he’d like to increase the teams talent level.

    “I’m told (Wilson) got blasted in the media today. Let me ask you a question. Did Ron play poorly last night? No. Why don’t you guys focus on the players who played poorly last night instead of questioning the coach.”

    “It’s a very bizarre twist to this market place that when players play poorly, the coach gets hollered at. This is new for me. In Vancouver when the players played poorly, the players got blasted so I’m perplexed by this.”

  • Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: The Colorado Avalanche have 3 players out with concussions, Peter Mueller, Adam Foote, and Kyle Cumiskey. Tom Poti has a groin injury for the 4th straight season. The New Jersey Devils have used 7 rookies so far this season. Matthew Lombardi hasn’t played a game for the Nashville Predators this season, he hasn’t even begun skating. Cory Schneider has played excellent for the Canucks so far this season, but you know they’ll have to trade him in the next year or 2, as the they have Robert Luongo locked up for an other 12 years. The Canucks should get a nice package for him.
  • Rich Thompson of the Boston Herald: The Boston Bruins announced yesterday that center David Krejci suffered a concussion Saturday night in OT, and could be out a week. Krejci took a hit from TJ Oshie, falling backwards and hitting his head off the boards.
  • Dan O’Neill of the St. Louis Post Dispatch: St. Louis Blues forward David Perron missed Saturday’s game, he left their morning practice with dizziness and headaches. Perron was hit by Joe Thornton on Thursday, he did practice on Friday though.
  • I like to take a 2nd to make note of injuries to my fantasy team this week: Phaneuf, Doan, Krejci, Perron and Pitkanen. Explicit!
  • Rich Chere via twitter: Devils coach John MacLean was hesitant to say that Brian Rolston will be in the lineup Wednesday, “I don’t know. Have to go in progression with how he feels. Right now I’m happy he’s practicing.”

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Zach Parise out 3 months … Phaneuf suffers deep cut to leg … Doughty likely back tomorrow … Weber-Preds to continue to talk

Tom Gulitti of the Bergon Record: Zach Parise will miss 3 months due to a torn meniscus in his right knee. Yesterday Parise was having exploratory arthroscopic surgery when the tear was discovered, and stitched back together. Anton Volchenkov could return to the Devils lineup on Friday. Volchenkov has been out since Oct. 9th with a broken nose and stiff neck.

James Mirtle of the Globe and Mail: Toronto Maple Leafs captain left the ACC on a stretcher last night after having his leg seriously cut. Ron Wilson said,  “It was deep enough that they wanted to take him to the hospital to determine the extent of the injury. That’s the last I heard.” Elisha Cuthbert via twitter: Dion’s “getting it treated & fixed up, but he will need to miss a few games :( “. Cuthbert added, “…I suppose I should say will MOST LIKELY miss a few games. With that diehard, even I never know for sure.” On the positive side of thing for the Maple Leafs, they finally scored. Their slump only lasted 167 minutes and 39 seconds, longest since Dec. 1927.

Helene Elliott of the LA Times: Drew Doughty was cleared last night to resume all hockey activities. The Kings will likely activate him from the IR today, and be in the lineup tomorrow versus the Lightning. The Kings will also get Scott Parse back, who’ll be making his season debut after injuring his foot and groin in training camp. Parse found himself on a line with Anze Kopitar and Dustin Brown. Jarrett Stoll was center Ryan Smyth and Justin Williams. The Kings will have to decide this week what to do with Brayden Schenn and Kyle Clifford. Schenn has played 8 games, while Clifford has been in 7.

Josh Cooper of the Tennessean: Agent Don Meehan met with Predators GM David Poille last week to discuss Shea Weber and a few others. With regards Weber, “There is a time and a place where we will get a little more serious about nego­tia­tions. I’m not sure when that’s going to be,” Poile said. “We just have an ongoing situa­tion. Timing is not cri­ti­cal right now, but we’ll see what happens.” The Preds would like to keep Weber long term, and will meet with Meehan again in Toronto when the team plays the Maple Leafs on Nov. 16th.

Eric Stephens of the OC Register: The Anaheim Ducks said yesterday that 2010 1st round pick, Cam Fowler, will be staying with the club for the time being. Center Kyle Chipchura suffered a concussion on Saturday

Helene Elliott of the LA Times: The Ducks are 14 in the Western Conference, play the next 3 games at home (5 of next 6), but coach Randy Carlyle may not be on the hotseat. GM Bob Murray, “critical for a lot of people, but not for Randy.” He added, “Our coaching is fine. He’s a good coach. It’s not the coach who’s doing some of the things that are happening out there. It’s not the coach taking stupid penalties. It’s not the coach losing faceoffs in our own zone and then not taking their guy.”

Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Concussed Colorado Avalanche forward Peter Mueller should play again this season. After talking with “People Who Would Know”, Dater thinks Mueller may return around Christmas times. Craig Anderson skated yesterday, with Dater thinking it will be another 2-3 weeks before he returns. Dater also noted the other day that Kyle Cuminsky is out with a concussion as well.

David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News: Torrey Mitchell moved up to the 2nd line, while Devin Setoguchi moved down to the 3rd line. Mitchell joins Ryane Clowe and Joe Pavelski. Setoguchi joins Logan Couture and Jamie McGinn.

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

  • 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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Mueller out with concussion … Goalie injuries in Philly and Minny … Don’t count on Souray being put on waivers today

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.”

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Coyotes re-sign Martin Hanzal … Avalanche re-sign Peter Mueller

  • Jim Gintonio of the Arizona Republic: The Phoenix Coyotes signed restricted free agent Martin Hanzal to a 2 year, $3.6 million contract. He’ll make $1.5 million in the 1st year, $2.1 million in the 2nd.

    Last year Hanzal scored 11 goals, added 22 assists with 104 PIMs in 81 games. In 227 career games he has 30 goals and 99 assists, with 172 PIMs.

  • Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: The Colorado Avalanche signed restricted free agent Peter Mueller to a 2 year, $4 million contract. He’ll make $1.5 million this year, $2.5 million next year. The Avalanche are currently just under the salary cap floor with 22 players signed.

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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

  • 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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Niemi decision today? Turco signing with Hawks? Parise and Devils not talking yet … Staal contract not progressing

  • Tim Sassone of the Daily Herald: After the Blackhawks decide what to do with Antti Niemi, they’ll have to decide what to do with Cristobal Huet. The ‘Hawks could assign him to the minors or have him play in the KHL or in Europe. They would still have to pay his salary, but would not count against the cap. In his blog, he reported that some believe they were exploring a Neimi trade.
  • Tom Gulitti of Bergon County Record: There have been no discussions between Zach Parise and the New Jersey Devils regarding a contract extension. The closer it gets to training camp, the less likely Parise thinks it will happen. Lou has said he wants to get one done before Parise becomes a free agent after next season.
  • Terry Frei of the Denver Post: Chris Stewart and Peter Mueller still remained unsigned by the Colorado Avalanche. Mueller and Avs have exchanged proposals, and will be talking soon. Mueller is expected to be at camp. The Avs are below the cap floor. Frei thinks both will be signed before camp starts.
  • Douglas Flynn of NESN: Rumors continue to be out there that Marc Savard could be dealt to clear cap space, but Flynn thinks it may not be a good idea since the Bruins offense struggled last season. Their power play was 21.7% with him in the lineup, 9.7% without him. The team scored 2.54 goals per game with him, 2.24 goals without him, they were 19-26 in 1 goal games. Would trading Savard put more pressure on Seguin to produce right away? On the other side of things, he may not return to form after his latest injury/concussion. The Bruins should be in a win-now mode, and they would be a better team with him in the lineup.

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NHLPA files grievance … NHL Rumors involving Frolov, Ponikarovsky, Sutton, Wheeler, Stralman

  • NHLPA.com: Media release from the NHLPA stating they’ve filed a grievance against the NHL for the rejection of Ilya Kovalchuk-New Jersey Devils contract.
  • Darren Dreger via twitter: August 1st is when the Maple Leafs could be pushing clubs to make their best Tomas Kaberle offer, if not, he could remain a Leaf.
  • Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: The Avalanche are about $8 million below the $43.8 cap floor, with RFA’s Peter Mueller and Chris Stewart left to re-sign. There is no rush to sign the two, but it’s expected to happen at some point.
  • Chris Botta via twitter: It’s down to 2 western teams for Andy Sutton’s services, could be finalized this week.
  • Jimmy Murphy via twitter: The Bruins and Blake Wheeler will be going to arbitration tomorrow as they were unable to to get something done beforehand.
  • Aaron Portzline via twitter: The Columbus Blue Jackets have requested a 1-year arbitration ruling for the Anton Stralman hearing, giving them the option to walk away from the contract if they are not happy with the ruling.

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Vokoun not going anywhere … Burke give his vision to MLSE …

  • Steve Gorten of the Sun Sentinel: Panthers GM Dale Tallon has told Tomas Vokoun he has no plans on trading him. “He likes me, and he has no interest in shopping me or trading me unless there’s a great deal that would make sense,” Vokoun told the Sun Sentinel. “Obviously, everybody’s tradable. He said if it was best for the future of the organization, he would have to do it. But from what I understand, he wants me around.”
  • Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Talks between Anton Volchenkov and the Ottawa Senators continue, but it doesn’t appear they are close to anything. Garrioch thinks the Kings and Canucks are in the market for a top 4 blueliner. Both Andy Sutton and Matt Cullen have shown their desire to remain in Ottawa.
  • Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun: Brian Burke met with the MLSE board of directors to outline his vision, budget, and player personel matters for the Maple Leafs and Marlies. According to MLSE CEO Richard Peddie, “Excellent job. Burke and (Dave) Nonis updated board on strategy and progress for both Leafs and Marlies. Got the $$ he requested and more. Board is very comfortable with direction.” The Leafs don’t plan on buying Jeff Finger out of his contract. Talks with Kulemin aren’t going anywhere, but Burke says there is still plenty of time.
  • Vicki Hall of the Calgary Herald: The Flames will be in search of scoring this off-season, to improve on their 29th ranking last year. GM Sutter has no plans on trying to trade back in the 1st round at the draft. The Flames are also without a 2nd round pick, but have 2 3rd round picks, and 2 4ths, and probably won’t take a goalie with any of those picks. Eric Nystrom could be too expensive for the Flames. Ian White, among others will receive a qualifying offer.
  • Jeff Gordon of the St. Louis Post Dispatch: The Blues have some decisions to make on the ‘depth’ side of their roster. They had 2 ‘enforcers’ (Cam Janssen and DJ King) on their roster, and only really need one. Janssen is a more rounded player and will likely get the nod. Brad Winchester didn’t take advantage of the opportunity he was given last year. Mike D’Agostini hasn’t done enough to warrent a one-way deal.
  • Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Colorado Avalanche forward Peter Mueller is a restricted free agent this year, but determining his worth may be difficult considering he suffered a severe concussion that cut his season short. He recorded 20 points in 15 games for the Avalanche in a draft day trade with the Coyotes.  Could he get $3 million a year, despite having 2 concussions in his short career.
  • David Shoults of the Globe and Mail: The Ontario Superior Court has reinstated Todd Bertuzzi’s lawsuit against Marc Crawford, stemming from the ‘Steve Moore Incident’. In March, Bertuzzi’s side missed the deadline to file paperwork. Moore is suing Bertuzzi for $38 million, Bertuzzi is saying that Crawford encouraged the attack and should pay for it. Regardless, neither Bertuzzi or Crawford would have to pay out of their own pocket, as it would be covered by the Canucks insurance.

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Jokinen to KHL? Turco Preparing to Move On … Thrashers Wish List

  • Eric Duhatschek of the Globe and Mail: After bouncing around between 4 different teams in the past couple years, Olli Jokinen may be playing in Russia next season, especially if he’s looking to make anywhere close to the $5 million salary he made this past season. Peter Mueller, out with a concussion, hasn’t been cleared to skate yet, so Avs fan shouldn’t expect him back soon. As it shouldn’t come as a surprise, Marty Turco could get interest from the Flyers, Capitals and Blackhawks, with the Lightning as a potential sleeper. Wild back-up Josh Harding could be on the trade block this summer. St. Louis could be looking for a goalie if they don’t re-sign Chris Mason, though they could be looking for a young goalie even if they re-sign Mason.
  • Chris Vivlamore of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution: Newly anointed Thrashers GM, Rick Dudley, doesn’t have a timetable set yet for a naming a new coach. Their new coach must “have good communication skills, good teaching skills and good technical skills.” The team also has 10 UFA’s and 4 RFA’s. They are also looking for a veteran leader and a scoring forward for one of the top 3 lines.
  • George Csolak of the St. Louis Globe-Democrat: Both Paul Kariya and Chris Mason would like to return to the Blues next season, but it’s not sure if the Blues will bring them back. Carlo Colaiacovo is also a question mark to be back next season, they were shopping him at the deadline.  They will look to re-sign RFAs Eric Johnson, Alex Steen, and David Perron.
  • Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: Marty Turco is gearing up for life outside of Dallas as he’s in the process of putting his house on the market. GM Joe Nieuwendyk said on Tuesday that Turco will not be back next season with the Stars. The 35-year-old Turco should get a shot with another team. “I want to win,” he said. “I want to find a team that is ready to win, an organization that is building to win now, and an organization that believes I can be a big part of that winning. That’s the most important thing to me.”

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Changes coming in Calgary … Rynnas has a list of teams to visit … Mueller out Indefinitely.

  • George Johnson of the Calgary Herald: Flames GM Darryl Sutter’s blueprint and makeover has failed … again. His status in the organization, as well as team president Ken King, will be in question. It’s been rumored for awhile that Sutter is on the hotseat, and I personally think Sutter will be gone. There will also be the debate if Jarome Iginla should be dealt, he scored only 1 goal in the last 2 weeks.
  • Ben Kuzma of the Vancouver Province: The Canucks get some good news in that defenseman Christian Ehrhoff will be ready for the playoffs after injurying his left knee. But that good news will be over shadowed by Ryan Johnson breaking his foot blocking a shot, and will be out 4 to 6 weeks.
  • Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Finnish free agent goalie Jussi Rynnas has already met with Dallas and talked to Edmonton’s assistant GM on Saturday. Rynnas has meetings with Anaheim, Philadelphia, and Montreal scheduled.
  • Stephen Harris of the Boston Herald: Bruins defenseman Andrew Ference will not be back for any regular season games. He’s been out since March 25th with a hernia injury, and is skating, but the area is still pretty swollen. They are hoping he can return for the playoffs.

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Trade Rumors on Trade Deadline Day

Here are a bunch of Trade Rumors for you on Trade Deadline Day. Follow trades on our Trade Tracker page.

9:35 AM: Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: The Flyers, Capitals, and Blackhawks could be looking at Vokoun, Turco, Ellis, and Roloson. The Predators have asked for a high-end prospect and a #1 pick for Dan Hamhuis, though they might keep him and hope to make a deep run in the playoffs. The Bruins, Canucks, Flyers, Devils, Rangers and Kings have all tried to land Hamhuis. The Leafs will look to move at least Stempniak and Primeau. The Thrashers are trying to sign Pavel Kubina to an extension before he becomes a UFA at seasons end. The Canucks, Capitals and Bruins may look at Joe Corvo.

9:31 AM: Mike Zeisberger of the Toronto Sun: Tomas Vokoun hasn’t been asked yet to waive his no trade clause. Paul Kariya won’t waive his no trade clause and Keith Tkachuk may not want to move as well. The Blues could move Brad Boyes if they could find a taker.

9:23 AM: James Murphy of NESN: Targets for the Bruins could be  Ray Whitney, Erik Cole and Tomas Kaberle. The 2010 first-rounder likely won’t be available back from Boston, but Chiarelli could net Kaberle with the Bruins’ original 2010 first-rounder, possibly a second-rounder and a young roster player. The chances of this happening were unlikely as of Tuesday night, but “don’t rule it out,” the source said. “Anything can happen.” There was also a rumor that the Bruins and Oilers were talking a deal that would get the Bruins a defenseman and possibly Andrew Cogliano.

9:20 AM: Frank Seravalli of the Philadelphia Daily News: The Flyers are looking into Dwayne Roloson now that Ray Emery is done for the year. Roloson is a $2.5 million cap hit and is under contract next season.

9:15 AM: Stephen Harris of the Boston Herald: Bruins GM  Peter Chiarelli will continue to look for scoring help. They may look at; Teemu Selanne, Ray Whitney, Keith Tkachuk, Cory Stillman, and Erik Cole.

9:11 AM: Sean Gordon of the Globe and Mail: The Canadiens may look to free up some cap space, and might look to see if they could shed Roman Hamrlik’s $5.5 million salary next season. That might be tough to do. The Habs may also look to move some salary for draft picks, with Maxim Lapierre, Glen Metropolit, and Paul Mara as potential players that could be moved out.

9:07 AM: Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: The Washington Capitals are showing interest in Oilers Dman, Steve Staios. Staios is 37, and has another season at $2.7 million. John Erskine and a draft pick could head the other way.

9:00 AM: Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette: It looks like the Canadiens will hold on to both Jaroslav Halak and Carey Price.

Tim Sassone of the Daily Herald: The Blackhawks are still trying to trade Cristobal Huet and his %5.625 million cap hit. Rumors are that they are talking to the Panthers, Islanders and Leafs.  The Leafs shot down their interest yesterday.

Michael Russo of the Star Tribune: Russo initially thought that Wild would be trading Owen Nolan, but now he’s not so sure. Unless they get a big offer, they’ll probably keep him. The Wild could be willing to move Eric Belanger.

Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: The Avs have put Wolski’s name out there, with the Coyotes Peter Mueller mentioned as a possible return. The Avalanche could look at bringing in Joe Corvo.

Erik Erlendsson of the Tampa Tribune: The Lightning could use some scoring and a puck moving defenseman. They could also do some selling with Jeff Halpern, Mike Smith, Mattt Smaby, David Hale, and Alex Tanguay’s name being mentioned.

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Trade talk is picking up as Olympic Freeze is Over

  • 11:05 AM: John Glennon of the Tennessean: The Predators coud use some scoring depth, and/or someone that can kill penalties. They’ll most likely look to add a rental player, instead of one with a longer contract. Dan Hamhuis and/or Dan Ellis could be moved out. If they move Hamhuis, they’d definitely need to bring in another Dman or 2. Potential targets could be Maxim Afinogenov, Colby Armstrong, Jeff Halpren, Ethan Moreau, Alexei Ponikarovsky, Rob Niedermayer, Lee Stempniak, Raffi Torres, and Ray Whitney.
  • 10:57 AM: Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: Contract talks between the Penguins and Sergei Gonchar will be put on hold until after the season.
  • 10:53 AM: Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: The Red Wings probably won’t make a significant move, but will may look to add some depth at forward.
  • 10:47 AM: Damian Cristodero of the St. Petersburg Times: The Lightning could be after a scoring winner, a puck-moving defenseman and a gritty 3rd-4th liner. Cheaper options could be Shean Donavan or Marek Svatos. Freddie Modin, Ponikarovsky or Torres are other options. Kris Versteeg would be a dream addition.
  • 10:39 AM: Jim Gintonio of the Arizona Republic: The Coyotes are looking for another scorer, especially one that could help their 29th ranked power play.
  • 10:33 AM: Michael Russo of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune: If Marek Zidlicky isn’t signed to an extension by the trade deadline, it would be surprising if he wasn’t moved.
  • 9:30 AM

  • Steve Conroy of the Boston Herald: Bruins GM, Petter Chiarelli has got a couple deals going, but nothing is fore sure yet. He’s looking to get a top 9 forward that has an offensive side, and will most likely be a rental player. Ray Whitney’s price might be too high, with other possibilities, Selanne, Ponikarovsky, or Kozlov. On the Dman side of things, Dan Hamhuis and James Wisniewski could be options.
  • Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer: 10 teams have contacted the Hurricanes over the last 4 days. Ray Whitney is getting the most interest, but other names are being brought up. “I am getting inquiries on more players than I expected,” Rutherford said. “That doesn’t mean more players will be traded, but it’s more inquiries than I anticipated.” Rutherford also said he won’t trade Ray Whitney unless he gets a 1st round pick in the deal, or a player equivalent to a 1st rounder.
  • James Murphy of NESN: The Coyotes and Bruins could come together on a deal. The Bruins could end up with Peter Mueller, and the Coyotes are looking to add a veteran forward and defenseman. The Bruins might have a couple deals in place, and that they could be announced today. Whitney, Torres and Ponikarovsky are also on the Bruins radar. The Penguins are supposedly the frontrunners for Ponikarovsky.
  • Tom Reed of the Columbus Dispatch: The Philadelphia Flyers are one of the teams showing strong interested in Raffi Torres. The Blue Jackets are looking for a 2nd round pick, but the Flyers are without a 1st and 2nd round pick this year.
  • Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun: Alex Ponikarovsky is getting ready for the trade deadline day, but doesn’t really want to talk about it until it happens. So far Burke hasn’t been happy with the trade offers he’s getting for his UFAs, and might hold on to them right until the end.
  • Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: The Dallas Stars and Steve Ott are still trying to hammer out a contract extension before the trade deadline. Both sides realize that if an agreement isn’t reached, he’ll most likely be traded.
  • Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: Trade talk has picked up the last couple days. Penguins GM, Ray Shero will look for a scoring winger, a physical defenseman, but not an enforcer to fill in for the injured  Eric Godard.
  • Dan Barnes of the Edmonton Journal: Oilers and Team Slovakia defenseman, Lubomir Visnovsky, has been reprimanded by the IOC for violating anti-doping rules. Visnovsky took Advil Cold & Sinus during the qualification round, that urine sample came back positive. Before and after the semifinal round, he tested negative. He consulted Oilers trainer, Slovakian team doctor, and admitted taking it on his doping control form.
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    Rumors from the Pacific … Hawks-Panthers Talking? Interest in Kozlov

  • E.J. Hradek and Puck Prospectus of ESPN:
    • Doug Wilson and the Sharks would like to add some secondary scoring and a puck moving Dman. It would have to be a rental player, as Patrick Marleau and Evgeni Nabokov need to be re-signed. The Sharks may also look at adding a backup goalie with some experience.
    • The LA Kings are looking to add a scoring winger and will look at Ray Whitney, Freddie Modin, Alexei Ponikarovsky, Paul Kariya, and Raffi Torres. They may also look at a goaltender with experience.
    • The Phoenix Coyotes might be one team that is looking to add players that won’t be UFAs after the season. Peter Mueller has been rumored all season to be on the outs. Andrew Brunette of the Wild might be a good fit with the Yotes.
    • The Anaheim Ducks have UFA’s Scott Niedermayer, Teemu Selanne, and Saku Koivu that will draw some interest. Bob Murray has said that Niedermayer isn’t going anywhere. James Wisniewski’s name has been mentioned with the Blackhawks (for Cam Barker before he was dealt).
    • Dallas Stars need an upgrade on the blueline. They won’t be bringing in any big contracts. Marty Turco is the most likely player to be moved. Mike Ribeiro, Stephane Robidas, Fabian Brunnstrom and Steve Ott, could find themselves playing in a different city after the deadline.
  • Harry Teinowitz on ESPN Radio: I don’t know how reliable this guy is, but he mentioned on Monday of a trade rumor between the Chicago Blackhawks and Florida Panthers. The Hawks would send Cristobal Huet, Corey Crawford, and Kris Versteeg to the Panthers for Tomas Vokoun and an defenseman (maybe either Dennis Seidenberg or Jordan Leopold).
  • TheFourthPeriod: The Kings, Bruins, and Red Wings are rumored to have an interest in Slava Kozlov. UFA’s for the Atlanta Thrashers that could be moved are: Kozlov, Colby Armstrong, Jim Slater, Maxim Afinogenov, Eric Boulton, Pavel Kubina, Christoph Schubert, Mark Popovic and Johan Hedberg. Kozlov, Kubina, and Armstrong should draw the most interest.
  • Jeremy Roenick on ESPNChicago: Roenick is putting his hand in the rumor mill, saying that Jaroslav Halak wants out of Montreal, and he’d be better suited to lead Chicago to the Cup than Antti Niemi and/or Cristobal Huet. Vokoun would be a perfect fit in Chicago.
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    All Panthers Available … Lightning to be Buyers … Wings Need to Make Moves … Do the Blues and or Sell

    12:29 pm: Darren Dreger of TSN: The Kings still have interest in Ray Whitney, but things have quieted down. The Hurricanes believe they can get a 1st round pick and a prospect for him. Whitney would have his no-trade for a 2 year extension.

    11:54 am: Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: The Oilers might have to take back $1 million salary to move Ethan Moreau and his $2 million salary. They might have to include a draft pick to move him. Andrew Cogliano and Coyotes Peter Mueller’s names have been tied together.
    11:27 am: TSN: The Senators have given GM Bryan Murray a 1 year contract extension. Murray told the media that the Senators won’t be trading UFA Anton Volchenkov, and that they have made a contract offer to him.

    9:19 am:

    • George Richards of the Miami Herald: Panthers GM, Randy Sexton, has said that no player is off limits. He hasn’t talked to anyone about waiving their no-trade/no-movement clauses yet. It’s being reported that Tomas Vokoun will not waive his no trade clause.
    • Dan O’Neill of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: The Blues are still unsure if they are going to stay pat or make some moves. Would anyone be interested in Brad Boyes who has 2 years at $4 million? Paul Kariya, Keith Tkachuk, Eric Brewer and Barret Jackman have no-trade clauses.
    • Chris McCosky of the Detroit News: The Wings need to clear at least $1.2 in cap space as Andreas Lilja is ready to return. Holland could move Brad May, Derek Meech and Brett Lebda, or he could look at moving Jason Williams and his $1.5 million cap number.
    • Chris Botta of NYI Point Blank: Teams that have shown interest in Andy Sutton: Calgary, Chicago, Colorado, New Jersey, Ottawa, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Washington. Teams that might be interested in Dwayne Roloson: Chicago, Colorado, Ottawa, Philadelphia, and Washington.
    • Terry Koshan of the Toronto Sun: Alexei Ponikarovsky knows his time as a Maple Leaf could be coming to an end. “Yeah, I’m prepared,” Ponikarovsky said. “You are always ready for something to happen. I know that. If management decides to move me, I will respect than and move on.”

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    Plenty of NHL Rumors to go along with some Injury news

    • Elliotte Friedman of CBC Sports:
      • The Leafs wanted to send Jeff Finger to the Ducks instead of Jason Blake, the Ducks said no.
      • Friedman thinks the Canucks might have been scouting Tomas Plekanec the other night, though he thinks there won’t be a deal.
      • The Blues probably won’t deal any of their young core, including David Backes. Eric Brewer could be had though.
      • The Kings have the money and assets to make a run at Kovalchuk or Lecavalier. The Thrashers would want Wayne Simmonds, but the Kings may be reluctant to do that.
    • Pierre LeBrun and Scott Burnside of ESPN: LeBrun and Burnside talk about potential Ray Whitney suitors. Teams that might be interested are the Senators, Bruins, Kings (if no Kovalchuk or Lecavalier), Rangers, Canucks, and 2 dark horses, the Coyotes and Predators
    • Steve MacFarlane of the Calgary Sun: The Calgary Flames may not be done dealing. Sutter may swing for the fences with Ilya Kovalchuk, or look to add a player like Ray Whitney, Alex Tanguay, or maybe Kristian Huselius.
    • James Murphy of NESN: The Bruins may be looking to acquire Blues forward Keith Tkachuk. They almost had a deal last year that would have sent Phil Kessel to the Blues for David Perron and Keith Tkachuk.
    • Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette: The Canadiens will be without Michael Cammalleri of 6 to 8 weeks with a damaged MCL. Cammalleri joins the list of Andrei Kostitsyn, Paul Mara, and Jaroslav Spacek on the sidelines.
    • Tim Sassone of the Daily Herald: Jay McKee, a healthy scratch last night, might interest in the Chicago Blackhawks. The ‘Hawks might also look at Aaron Ward, Garnet Exelby or Sean O’Donnell.
    • James Murphy of NESN.com: Potential trade targets for the Boston Bruins; Ray Whitney, Aaron Ward, Matt Cullen, Raffi Torres, and Peter Mueller.
    • Mike Russo of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune: Niklas Backstrom, out with an illness, rejoined the team in Dallas but is doubtful for tonight’s game. The Wild are still in the playoff hunt, so they probably won’t be sellers. If they are buyers, it won’t be a significant deal. They are still hoping that P-M Bouchard will be able to return this year. If they do become sellers, the Wild have 4 players who might interest other teams; Marek Zidlicky, Kim Johnsson, Owen Nolan and Eric Belanger.
    • Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: Andres Lilja has been assigned to the AHL by the Detroit Red Wings on a conditioning loan. Lilja as been out since last February 28th with a concussion. He’ll play at least 3 games with Grand Rapids, then they’ll re-evaluate.

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    Around the Boards: HNIC Hotstove, Blues Interested in Staal? Stars and Flyers monitoring each other, Burke’s Options

    • Hockey Night in Canada’s Hotstove Video: LeBrun mentions in the Hotstove that if the Thrashers don’t have Kovalchuk signed to the extension in the next month, they’ll probably look at trading him.
      • Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun:
        • Whispers around the league that the St. Louis Blues are interested in Eric Staal and his $8.25 million cap hit (thru 2015-16). Staal has struggled this season and missed some time due to injury. The Blues have plenty of assests to send the other way, such as Alex Pietrangelo, David Perron, and Ian Cole just to name a few.
        • The Panthers should have new ownership soon, and their GM is shopping their number 1 goalie, Tomas Vokoun and his $5.7 million cap hit.
        • Matt Stajan might be on the move before the Trade Deadline. Though Burke may not want to mess with the chemistry he’s had lately with Phil Kessel. Still he’s never lived up to the expectations in Toronto.
        • The Flyers and Stars have apparently been keeping an eye on each other. The Stars are battling for the last playoff spot, and the Flyers have plumetted to the basement of the Eastern Conference. The Stars would like a top 6 forward, maybe Danny Briere (might not waive his no movement clause). The Flyers have interest in 2010 UFA goalie, Marty Turco. I don’t see the Stars moving Turco until they are completely out of it. Jeff Carter’s name may also start appearing in trade talks.
        • Brian Burke has tried to get Peter Mueller out of Phoenix, but he doesn’t have the assests to do it.
    • Michael Traikos of the National Post: Brian Burke Christmas no trade deadline has passed with no moves, but with the teams recent good play, he finds himself in a bit of situation. Does he trade any of his 10 UFA’s and 5 RFA’s between now and the deadline, or does he play out the season and see what happens. Traikos thinks the Leafs could probably get a 2nd round pick for each of the following FAs, Ponikarovsky, Stajan, Kulemin, White and Toskala. I don’t see any team offering a 2nd a round pick for Toskala. Of those 5 mentioned, I think only Ponikarovsky, Kulemin and White will be back.

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    Around the Boards: Rangers – Coyotes talking trade, Halak back on the Block, the Afinogenov factor?

    • Larry Brooks of the NY Post: Brooks reported that the New York Rangers have offered defensive prospect, Bobby Sanguinetti, to the Phoenix Coyotes for center Peter Mueller. The Coyotes countered by asking for either Brandon Dubinsky or Ryan Callahan. The article is worth a read as he also comments on the Rangers underachieving Cap Killers, Michal Rozsival, Wade Redden, and Chris Drury.
    • Frank Seravalli of the Philadelphia Daily News: The Flyers might make a call to the Montreal Canadiens, as Jaroslav Halak is available. He’s at a respectable number of $775,000 and could be a fill in while Emery is out, and could even take over the #1 in Philadelphia. One problem for the Flyers would be that it would cost them a Top 6 forward. Also, when Emery returns, they would have 3 NHL caliber goalies on their roster.
    • Eric Duhatschek of the Globe and Mail: Ilya Kovalchuk played a big part in the Thrashers bringing Maxim Afinogenov (who’s having a terrific year) to the team, and now it’s possible that Afinogenov could play a roll in Kovalchuk staying with the Thrashers.
    • Mark Giannotto of the Washington Post: After missing the last 12 games after finger surgery, Mike Knuble could return to the Capitals lineup tonight.
    • George Sipple of the Detroit Free Press: Add Dan Cleary to the list of injured Detroit Red Wings. Cleary separated his shoulder and will be out 4 weeks.

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    Around the Boards: Sopel to Leafs? Mueller, Stajan, Kostityn’s on the Block?

    • Pierre LeBrun on the CBC Hotstove and ESPN:
        The Leafs and Blackhawks’ have reportedly been talking about Brent Sopel. Sopel is owed $2.5 million this year, and $2.0 million next season. For taking Sopel in a salary cap dump, the Leafs would also receive a high pick, maybe in the 2nd round range. The ‘Hawks are obviously talking to other teams as well.
        Bobby Ryan had rejected a 3 year deal earlier this year, and talks won’t resume until after the season.
        Peter Mueller doesn’t appear to be working out in coach Tippett’s books, and other GM’s are calling.
    • Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun:
        Bob Gainey is still shopping around Sergei and Andrei Kostitsyn, and the Oilers might still be interested. Shawn Horcoff might be available but he’s making a good chuck of change at $5.5 million.
        The Anaheim Ducks might be looking to shed Joffrey Lupul and his $4.25 cap hit through 2013. That might not be an easy thing to do.
        Ilya Kovalchuk’s talks continue and it’s likely more than 10 years at around $9 million a season. Also:

        The belief is Kovalchuk doesn’t want the pressure of playing in the scrutiny of a market where he’s going to face questions. Not only have the Thrashers tried to put together a playoff contender this season, Kovalchuk had input on some of the roster decisions that were made.

    • Mike Zeisberger of the Toronto Sun: Even though the Maple Leafs finally won a game, trade or demotion speculation will still follow the team. There reportedly has been some interest in Matt Stajan. Only 5 forwards are under contract for next season (Kessel, Blake, Hagman, Grabovski, and Orr).
    • Bucky Gleason of the Buffalo News: Trade rumors of the Canadiens sending Sergei Kostitsyn to the Oilers for Andrew Cogliano.
    • Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: Columbus has received 1 trade offer for Nikita Filatov, but GM Scott Howson said he’s not looking to trade him.

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