Posts Tagged Raffi Torres

Audio on Kaberle … Free agent news from around the league

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on August 16th, 2010

  • Andy Strickland via twitter: The Blues had said for weeks that Kaberle never made sense since he could walk away at the end of the year.
  • Steve Simmons via twitter: Kaberle was willing to sign a long term contract if he was traded to a city he liked, but no one asked.
  • Andy Strickland via twitter: Responding to Simmons …. Only if right city. Kaberle’s agent has said of his desire to stay in the Eastern Conference.
  • Will DePaoli of Inside Pittsburgh Sports: Some agents are saying that many of the established veterans may not be signing anywhere until mid-to-late September. Teams are looking for younger, cheaper 3rd-4th liners. They don’t have any cap space, but the Bruins are looking at veteran free agent wingers. They’re keeping in touch with Bill Guerin and Miro Satan. Raffi Torres has drawn minimal interest and may have to settle for a 1 year deal around $800,000 to low $1 million. Willie Mitchell in talks with 5 teams; Kings, Sharks, Lightning, Capitals and Canucks. The Anaheim Ducks are looking for a defenseman before turning their attention to Paul Kariya. Ruslan Fedotenko has received an invite to Islanders training camp, the Wild may also be interested. Slava Kozlov wants to go to a contender but not getting a lot of interest, KHL is option but not being pursued at the moment. A couple of teams have called about Jeff Halpren, but he’s yet to receive an offer.
  • EJ Hradek via twitter: Thinks the only logical spot for Niemi is San Joseba possibly the Capitals if they are not sold on their two young goalies.

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League to look at other long-term deals? More ‘Hawks Options … Turco to decide in 7-10 days

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on July 28th, 2010

  • William DePoali via twitter: Gary Bettman said yesterday that if the league wins its case against Ilya Kovalchuk, they may look in to other long-term deals.
  • Richard Durrett of ESPN Dallas: According to his agent, Marty Turco is going to play for a contending team next season. He has 3 potential landing spots, and will make a decision in the next 7 to 10 days.
  • Jesse Rogers of ESPN Chicago: The Blackhawks and Antti Niemi have submitted their written briefs before their Thursday arbitration hearing. The ‘Hawks would like to keep Niemi but it all comes down to the price. One option to save cap space would be to go with a 21 man roster (2 below the max, which most carry), with the 21st player being able to play both forward and defense. If Niemi’s salary is below $2.5 million (and Victor Stalberg is sent to minors, saving $300K) they could do that (they’d also have a $1 million cushion for injuries). If the number is between $2.5 and $3 million, they’d have to make another move. If it’s over $3 million, he may not be their starting goalie next season. Marty Turco could be an option if they lose Niemi, they might be able to get him between $2 and $2.5 million.
  • Chric Kuc of the Chicago Tribune: Niemi is likely seeking between $3 and $4 million a season, the ‘Hawks probably closer to $2 million. The ‘Hawks could accept any ruling either way, and look to trade him, or someone else.
  • Andy Strickland via twitter: The Boston Bruins are talking to Bill Guerin, but would need to make a roster move first. Penguins are still interested in him.
  • Michael Arace of the Colubus Dispatch: (written before the Blue Jackets and Anton Stralman settled before their arbitration, 1 year, $1.95 million.) The Blue Jackets will look to improve their defense, and will look via trades and not free agency. 3 options could be Tomas Kaberle, Kevin Bieksa and Sheldon Souray. Arace believes the Blue Jackets have made a pitch for Kaberle, inquired about Bieksa, and made a ‘token’ call about Souray. Nikita Filatov’s name probably would come up.
  • Tim Benz of Inside Pittsburgh Sports: Penguins GM Ray Shero hasn’t completely ruled out bringing Bill Guerin back next season, and is still in touch with him. But at the moment they are looking at young kids to fill the holes.
  • James Mirtle via twitter: Alexei Ponikarovsky signed a 1 year deal with the Kings (for $3.2 million cap hit). He wanted a 4 year from the Leafs on a ‘big ticket’ when he was with them.
  • Michael Russo via twitter: Willie Mitchell could be a possibility for the Wild, but he’s not looking to take physicals just yet.

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Afternoon rumors involving Gagne, Savard, Sharp, and a list of UFA’s

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on July 14th, 2010

Pierre LeBrun via Twitter: The Flyers have given Simon Gagne’s agent permission to speak directly with teams, nothing yet.

Jimmy Murphy via Twitter: One GM said this morning, “As far as I know, Bruins aren’t actively shopping Savard at this moment. That has been quiet.”

JT Bourne (Puck Daddy, USA Today) via Twitter: The Islanders should be offering “mad prospects/picks” for Patrick Sharp. Isles need the talent, gives the Blackhawks the cap space, and they are in a different conference.

Dennis Bernstein via twitter: The longer the Kovalchuk saga drags on in Los Angeles, the better a Patrick Sharp trade looks.

Puck Daddy Greg Wyshynski: Titled: “Some clarity on Kovalchuk, Kings and contract demands.” Your afternoon Kovalchuk fix.

Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: Free Agent rumor round up from yesterday. Brendan Morrison: Has turned down one offer, and waiting on own ‘priority list’, cap issues and trade possibilities are slowing the process down. Eric Belanger: Could be top center on the market, has been told by some teams to wait, Washington and Tampa could be interested. John Madden: “evaluating the possible situations”, once Kovalchuk and Kaberle situations finished, the free agent market will open up (My guess is that he’s referring to NJ or LA as possible destinations, with NJ as the preferred destination). Darcy Tucker: Nothing would happen before the end of the month, location and chance to win are key factors. Raffi Torres: A handful of interested teams, no firm offers. Arron Asham: Getting lots of interest, and has offers, but would like a raise. Ruslan Fedotenko/Miroslav Satan: Both have interest, but teams waiting for other things to happen first. Pavol Demitra: Getting interest from KHL and NHL, and hopes to get something done soon. Mike Mottau: New Jersey is still interested. Marek Svatos: Could get a one-year deal at good value, a fit for Pittsburgh? Brian Pothier: talking with team, but hasn’t moved on anything.rci

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Twitter rumors and Free Agent signings quick hits

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL Opinion, NHL Rumors on July 1st, 2010

6:01 PM: Pierre LeBrun via Twitter: “Just hung up phone with Dean Lombardi. Asked him if he was closing in on Kovalchuk, “No.” Asked if he’s still in the mix, “Not sure.””

5:59 PM: Adrian Dater via Twitter: Kovalchuk to the Kings is getting closer.

5:57 PM: Pierre LeBrun via Twitter: Saku Koivu to the Ducks for 2 years, $5 million.

3:45 PM: Bruce Garrioch via Twitter: The Flames are working on a 2 year deal with Olli Jokinen ….. (I wonder if Sutter is trying to get fired to collect his full pay)

3:44 PM: Pierre LeBrun via Twitter: The Canucks are favorites to land Dan Hamhuis, LA, Tor, and SJ still in it.

3:38 PM: James Mirtle via Twitter: Leafs not pursuing Raffi Torres as of yet. Armstrong may fill that role.

3:15 PM: NHLSourcesSay via Twitter: Islanders and Sabres have sent offers to Pavel Kubina.

3:01 PM: Darren Dreger via Twitter: Tony Lydman signs with Anaheim for 3 years, $9 million.

3:00 PM: Andy Strickland via Twitter: Alex Steen’s deal is for 4 years, $13.45 million. $2.75 million next year, $3.56 million the next 3 years.

2:50 PM: Frank Seravalli via Twitter: “Holy god. I thought Shelley was bad. Boogard to Rangers; 4 years at $1.65M per season… He hasn’t scored a goal in 4 years.”

2:33 PM: Pierre LeBrun via Twitter: Leafs in on Dan Hamhuis

2:30 PM: Tweet of the Day so far – Adrian Dater: “Darcy Tucker is still available folks.”

2:24 PM: NHLSourcesSay: 3 teams interested in Ray Whitney: Panthers, Sabres, and Flames

2:15 PM: Bob McKenzie via Twitter: Martin could end up in LA or Pitt. Hamhuis still possible in Pitt.

1:05 PM: Pierre LeBrun via Twitter: Dan Ellis is close to signing with someone, but it’s not Montreal.

12:53 PM: Bob McKenzie via Twitter: Paul Martin is eager to sign with Pittsburgh, and vise versa.

12:50 PM: Jeremy Rutherford via Twitter: Alex Steen re-signs with the Blues, 4 years.

12:34 PM: Bob McKenzie via Twitter: Savard to Calgary for Regher is being talked about. Savard hasn’t been asked to waive his no trade clause yet.

Alex Tanguay signs a one year deal with the Calgary Flames according to RDS.

Braydon Coburn re-signs with the Flyers for 2 years, cap hit of $3.2 million.

Eric Christensen signs a 2 year deal with the NY Rangers, $925,000 a season.

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Rumors from Leafland

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL Opinion, NHL Rumors on July 1st, 2010

  • Domien Cox via Twitter: Cox thinks the Maple Leafs could look at Paul Martin, ahead of Dan Hamhuis, if the bidding isn’t crazy.
  • Mark Seidel via Twitter: Raffi Torres has been telling people that he’ll be signing the Maple Leafs on July 1st.
  • Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun: Talks between Nikolai Kulemin and the Maple Leafs are progressing but ‘a deal is not imminent’. Those talks have been put on hold as Nonis and Burke prepare for today. Kulemin still thinks he should be paid like a first line winger, in the $3 million range. John Mitchell, Wayne Primeau and Jamie Lundmark will hit the free agent market. The Leafs may revisit them later on if they are not signed, and other Leaf options don’t work out.
  • James Mirtle of the Globe and Mail: Likely targets for Brian Burke and the Maple Leafs: Colby Armstrong, Raffi Torres, and Dan Hamhuis. ‘Next in Line’ for Leafs: Manny Malhotra, Paul Martin, Aaron Asham. ‘Longshot’ Ilya Kovalchuk.
  • Rob Longley of the Toronto Sun: It could be a slow free agent day for the Leafs. It’s speculated that Burke has no interest in Kovalchuk, too much money for too long of term. With a weak free agent class, Burke and Nonis seem more focused on trades. Possible free agent targets could be Matthew Lombardi, Colby Armstrong, Dan Hamhuis and Paul Martin.

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Colorado Defenseman Outlook … Lightning not good for Yzerman? Hamhuis a good fit in Minnesota

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 3rd, 2010

  • John Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Matheson doesn’t think Steve Yzerman will take the Tampa Bay Lightning GM job, as they are “set up to fail”. The Oilers should go after Dustin Byfuglien and his $3 million contract. They have 2 2nd round picks this year and prospect Riley Nash, that could be used in some sort of package. The Blackhawks will be looking to dump some salary this off-season.
  • John Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Raffi Torres’ probably won’t be getting the nice contract he’d hoped for, as he was inconsistent with Buffalo down the stretch and was a healthy scratch in their final playoff game. The Predators will look to re-sign Patrick Hornqvist but probably won’t have the money for Dan Hamhuis. Hamhuis would be a great fit in Minnesota. Zbynek Michalek may look to join his brother Milan in Ottawa. Tom Poti, after taking a  puck in the face in game 6 of the Cap-Canadiens series, required 4 plates to repair the damage. The Capitals probably won’t bring back Jose Theodore, Brendan Morrison and Shaone Morrisonn. They may also look at trading Tomas Fleischman, who despite a 51 point season, was a healthy scratch in the game the Caps were eliminated.
  • Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: A reader asks Molinari of the possibility of the Pittsburgh Penguins going after Anton Volchenkov. Molinari thinks it would have to depend on what the Penguins want to do with Sergei Gonchar, Jordan Leopold, Mark Eaton, and Jay McKee. If they don’t want to pay Gonchar the big money, it could be a possibility.
  • Terry Frei of the Denver Post: The Colorado Avalanche defensive corps outlook for next season. Ruslan Salei and Brett Clark’s combined $6.5 million salaries are most likley both gone. The 39-year old Adam Foote’s 2 year deal expires, but he could be back on a salary that is maybe less than the $3 million cap hit he had this year. They’d like to move John-Michael Liles but he has 2 years and $8.4 million left. Scott Hannan is at $4.5 million and would be hard to move at that number. Kyle Comiskey is at a friendly $600,000 so he will most likely be back. They will look to re-signing Kyle Quincey. They will mostly likely have a top 6 of Foot, Quincey, Liles, Cuminskey, and Ryan Wilson. Defensive prospects are Kevin Shattenkirk, Colby Cohen, Tyson Barrie, Stefan Elliott and Cameron Gaunce.

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Changes Coming in LA and Buffalo … Devils Coaching Options

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News on April 28th, 2010

  • Helene Elliott of the Los Angeles Times: The LA Kings have 9 free agents to deal with this off-seaosn, 6 UFAs and 3 RFAs, and there is a chance at all 6 UFAs won’t be back. Alexander Frolov could be looking for $5 million a year, not likely getting that in LA, or maybe from anyone else in the NHL. Freddie Modin wasn’t very productive since being acquired at the deadline. Jeff Halpren didn’t have much success either. Poor defensive play since December injury, and coming off a $3 million contract may have paved the wayRandy Jones to move on. The game may be getting too quick for Sean O’Donnell. Raitis Ivanans may not be worth the roster spot anymore. Their 3 restricted free agents, Brad Richardson, Scott Parse, and Rich Clune, all made under $600,000 and wouldn’t be getting big raises, so they might be back.
  • Don Brennan of the Ottawa Sun: Jason Spezza’s no movement clause starts on July 1st, and fans are starting to hope that he’s traded. But fans may not get their wish as both he, and the Sens would like to have him wearing a Senators uniform next season.
  • Elliotte Friedman of CBC.ca: Anton Volchenkov’s starting point will be Mike Komisarek’s 5 year, $22.5 million, and someone will give that or more. Friedman thinks Halak won’t re-sign in Montreal unless it’s for a boat load of cash. Wherever Carey Price ends up next year, he needs a veteran goalie to mentor him. Doug Risebrough is in the running for the Lightning GM job, and could be a candidate for San Jose if the organization goes in a different direction. The Lightning’s new GM will decide the fate of Vinny Lecavalier, new owner Jeffrey Vinik might be open to keeping him.
  • Jerry Sullivan of the Buffalo News: Changes could be coming with the Buffalo Sabres, GM Darcy Regier and coach Lindy Ruff could be on the hotseat. Tim Connolly, Jason Pominville, Derek Roy underacheived. Trade deadline acquisition Raffi Torres was a scratch for their elimination game. The team in general is on the small side, without the physical side that you need in the playoffs.
  • Larry Brooks of the NY Post: The New Jersey Devils will be searching for a new coach at Lemaire retired after one year. Brooks thinks the Devils should look inhouse and promote their AHL coach and long time Devil, John MacLean. Other candidates could be Ken Hitchcock, Bob Hartley, and Mike Keenan.

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Lidstrom Retiring After Season? Jarome Wants Out? Jagr Staying in Russia

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on April 22nd, 2010

  • James Mirtle of the Globe and Mail: Rumors are spreading throughout Joe Louis Arena that All-World defenseman Nicklas Lidstrom could retire after season. I wonder who’s whispering this though? “It’s going to come sooner or later,” Lidstrom said, chuckling at all the attention his milestone birthday is getting of late. “I’m getting up there in age, people are watching me closely and think something’s going to happen, but … nothing’s really changed. I know what I have to do. I feel the same out there.”
  • Elliotte Friedman of CBC.ca: Word around the league is that Jarome Iginla may be wanting to get out of Calgary. I can’t really blame him if he does. The face of the organization for so many years, has needed a #1 center to play with him, and what does the organization do for him lately? Trade for, and re-sign for 4 years, Matt Stajan …. ughhhh! Friedman thinks the Oilers could get a decent return for Ales Hemsky, who has 2 years left at a $4.1 million cap hit ($4.5 million next year, $5 million in 11-12).
  • Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: Talk about some tough injuries to overcome. The Flyers will be without Jeff Carter and Simon Gagne for awhile, both will have surgery on their fractured right foot. Gagne will be gone for at least 3 weeks, while Carter will out for at least 6 weeks.
  • Sport-Express.ru: The 38-year old Jaromir Jagr has had contract negotiations with his former KHL team, Omsk. Jagr is looking for a 2 year deal. It is not know as of yet if NHL teams, including the often rumored Edmonton Oilers are not interested in signing Jagr. I wonder if this is just a way Jagr can put some pressure on NHL teams to hurry up and make an offer.
  • Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Senators defenseman Anton Volchenkov has already turned down a 5-year contract extension from the Ottawa Senators, could get a contract in the range of $5 million on the open market this off-season. One team who might be interested is the Washington Capitals. I’m not sure how that contract would fit in to their salary cap situation.
  • Mark Whicker of the OC Register: Potential free agent targets for the Anaheim Ducks given their salary cap space: Raffi Torres, Tomas Plekanek, Marek Svatos, Alex Tanguay, Eric Nystrom, Matt Lombardi, Brad Winchester, and Ilya Kovalchuk.
  • Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: Despite have 10 defenseman prospects in the system that are 22 years old or younger, the Blue Jackets may still look to drafting a Dman with the 4th overal pick. One reason would be that only John Moore may be a legit NHL defenseman. The other, could be that currently the 3rd to 6th rated draft eligible prospects are defenseman; Eric Gudbranson, Cam Fowler, and Brandon Gormley. MyNHLdraft.com has the Blue Jackets selecting Cam Fowler.

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Off-Season Spending for the Maple Leafs? Stars to Re-sign or Trade Richards?Jussi Rynnas Visits Stars Today …

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL Rumors on April 1st, 2010

  • Damien Cox of the Toronto Star: Brian Burke’s remodelling of the Toronto Maple Leafs will continue this off-season, and Cox expects them to keep spending this summer. The Leafs might have another college signing or 2, they’ve already signed 2 who are expected to play for the Marlies next year. There is interest in the Norwegian Hobbit, Mats Zuccarello-Aasen, as well as one or two other European free agents. The Leafs have around $6 million in cap space (though I think it will be less, depending on what their RFAs sign for), which could increase if Jeff Finger and his $3.5 million are shipped to the Marlies or elsewhere. The potential trading of Tomas Kaberle and his $4.25 could also create more space, or lessen it depending on what they get in return for him. UFAs they might look at are Raffi Torres, Eric Belanger, and Adam Burish.

  • Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: The Stars Brad Richards contract expires after next season, and the Stars may be looking to lock him before the start of next season, to potentially avoid a Ilya Kovalchuk situtation. He currently has a cap hit $7.8 million, and would most likely sign for less. If some sort of agreement can’t be reached, they could look at dealing him. If they are able to re-sign Richards, they could use Mike Ribeiro and his $5 million salary as trade bait to bring in an offensive defenseman.

  • Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: Finnish free agent goalie Jussi Rynnas will be meeting with the Dallas Stars today. The 6-5 goalie posted a 14-13-1 record with a 2.50 GAA and .929 SV%.

  • Chuck Gormley of the Courier Post: Braydon Coburn of the Philalphia Flyers is in the finals season of his 2 year, $2.6 million deal. The Flyers offered him an extension, but he turned it down and told them he’ll wait until the summer. Coburn is a RFA.

  • Shelly Anderson of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: There is a good chance that both Evgeni Malkin and Sergei Gonchar will be back in the Penguins lineup Saturday afternoon versus the Thrashers.

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Who’ll Buy the Coyotes? The Flyers Goaltending Issues … Kulemin Staying in Toronto?

Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on March 21st, 2010

  • Pierre LeBrun of ESPN:
    • The League and Players will be voting on whether to fast-track new head-shot rules, which will most likely happen. Francois Beauchemin said to ESPN, “But I wish the league would have taken care of this last summer like we [the players] had asked them to,”.
    • The Ice Edge Group, which signed a letter of intent to buy the Coyotes, may not be front runners anymore to buy them. Jerry Reinsdorf could be back in the mix. Relocation may enter into the picture if a local owner isn’t found by May.
    • Mike Cammalleri should return to the Canadiens lineup later this week.
  • Jim Matheson of Edmonton Journal:
    • Matheson thinks the Oilers should trade prospect Linus Omark for the best draft pick they can get.
    • The Red Wings might go after European FA, Mats Zuccarello-Aasen, offering a 2-way contract that has an out to return to Sweden if he doesn’t make the big club or like the AHL.
    • Raffi Torres has no goals in 7 games since being traded to the Sabres. “I’ve been terrible; all I’ve done is given them a little bit of physical play,” said Torres.
    • Steve Stamkos has a painful bone bruise in his back.
  • Larry Brooks of the NY Post: The Philadelphia Flyers inquired about Tim Thomas at the deadline, but were unable to work out a deal to fit him under the cap. They might try again in the summer to land Thomas, as well as looking at Marty Turco, Evgeni Nabokov and Dan Ellis.
  • Scott Burnside of ESPN: The Flyers made a run at Tomas Vokoun, but the Panthers wanted Jeff Carter.
  • Tim Panaccio of CSNPhilly: The Flyers had hoped to use Michael Leighton’s playoff performance as a gage as to what kind of contract to offer him. Now that his season is most likely finished, this obviously won’t happen, and they will re-evaluate their goaltending situation after the season.
  • Paul Hunter of the Toronto Star: Maple Leafs winger Nikolai Kulemin has greatly improved his overal game this year, and now finds himself on the Leafs top line, getting plenty of ice time. Kulemin is a RFA after the season, and there have been reports that he might head to the KHL to collect a larger pay check, but that may not be the case. “I want to play here. Some players are going to Russia for some big money but I like it here,” he said. “I want to play here in the better league. I want to play better and make the team better.”

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    Some Trades That Didn’t Happen at the Deadline

    Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on March 5th, 2010

  • Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun:
    • The Flyers, Canucks, Capitals and Ducks all talked to the Maple Leafs about Tomas Kaberle. Burke was looking for a 1st round pick, a mid-round pick, and a top prospect. The Flyers would have had to convince one of Danny Briere, Scott Hartnell, or Simon Gagne to waive their no movement clause to fit Kaberle in. The Maple Leafs will most likely look to move Kaberle in the summer when his no trade clause doesn’t apply.
    • The Islanders weren’t sure of the health of Rick DiPietro (shouldn’t be a surprise to anyone), so they decided to hold on to Dwayne Roloson and Martin Biron. The Blackhawks, Flyers and Capitals all inquired.
    • Ray Whitney refused to waive his no trade clause without getting a contract extension of 3 years and $10.5 million. He could re-sign with the Hurricanes.
    • The Bruins were interested in bringing in Wojtek Wolski, but didn’t have the have the young prospect to send the other way.
    • The Capitals inquired about Senators defenseman Anton Volchenkov, but the Sens want to make a strong playoff push.
    • The Canucks called about Raffi Torres, but he went to the Sabres.
    • The Panthers tried to trade Tomas Vokoun but couldn’t get the return they wanted. They will most likely try to deal him at the Draft, and the Capitals might be interested. They could offer Karl Alzner in a package.
    • 10 teams called the Predators about Dan Hamhuis, but Preds GM David Poile wouldn’t lower his 2nd round pick and a top prospect demand.

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    The Day after Deadline Day

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

  • Stephen Harris of the Boston Herald: Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli had a frustrating day yesterday. Though he did bring in Dennis Seidenberg, and cleared out a little room to bring in a scoring forward, that forward never showed up. The Bruins had 7 forwards on their wish list; Alex Ponikarovsky, Raffi Torres, Ray Whitney, Keith Tkachuk, Wojtek Wolski, Cory Stillman, and Teemu Selanne. Though he was in on few deals, he didn’t want to match the asking price.
  • Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun: Tomas Kaberle was never asked to waive his no trade clause, but his agent did give Brian Burke a list of 3 teams that Kaberle would consider going to. Burke was obviously, unable to pull something off. The 3 teams weren’t mentioned, but my guess would be that they were Philadelphia, Boston, and Washington. “The key for me is we respected the no-trade clause. It was a small number of teams and I generally will not accept less than 10. A player can’t handcuff you that way. This was a rare case where Tomas, a special player, asked us to look into three cases and we did.” Burke also mentioned yesterday that they may look at signing Kaberle to an extension, but my guess is that he’ll be moved at the Draft.
  • Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquier: Despite all the phone calls the last couple days, the Flyers didn’t pull off any moves. Not having a 1st and 2nd round pick hampered what they could do. They showed interest in Colby Armstrong, Raffi Torres and Dan Hamhuis. The Flyers looked at other goalies but felt they weren’t an upgrade over Michael Leighton.
  • Tim Panaccio of CSNPhilly: “We looked around for a few things to see if anything made sense to really add without subtracting and nothing really came up that made sense,” Holmgren said. “We’re certainly not upset and we’re moving forward.” The Flyers looked at Dan Hamhuis, Raffi Torres, and Tomas Kaberle. The Predators may have asked for Ryan Parent and Braydon Coburn (Parent and another player as they didn’t have any high picks this year). The Flyers hoped to get Kaberle cheap. The lack of draft picks probably hurt their chances of acquiring someone.
  • Scott Burnside and Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: They breakdown a bunch of yesterday’s trades.
  • Shelly Anderson of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: Alexei Ponikarovsky won’t make his Penguins debut until the weekend, and may find himself alongside Evgeni Malkin.
  • Derek Van Diest of the Edmonton Sun: Sheldon Souray developed an infection in his surgically repaired hand, and may be done for the season.
  • Larry Brooks of the NY Post: The Rangers decided to stay put yesterday. They found the prices for Dan Hamhuis and Raffi Torres too expensive. They were thought to be interested in Pavol Demitra but nothing really developed.
  • Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Penguins: Penguins GM Ray Shero weighs in on trade deadline.
  • James Gordon of the Ottawa Citizen: Senators coach Cory Clouston said Filip Kuba is doubtful for tonights game with an injury that isn’t ‘serious’.

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    NHL Trade Rumors on Twitter on Trade Deadline Day

    Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Trades on March 3rd, 2010

    4:35 PM: James Mirtle: The Leafs were offered a 2nd and 4th round picks for Ponikarovsky, but liked Caputi better.

    4:21 PM: Chris Johnston: Canucks GM Mike Gillis says the going rate was a 2nd round pick for an expiring contract.

    3:12 PM: Darren Dreger: Lee Stempniak to Phoenix for a 4th and 7th round pick

    3:11 PM: Bob McKenzie: Capitals acquire Joe Corvo for Brian Pothier and Oskar Osala.

    3:00 PM: John Shannon: Poile confirms taht Dan Hamhuis staying in Nashville.

    2:53 PM: Frank Seravalli: Flyers could be making move on Lee Stempniak.

    2:46 PM: Bruce Garrioch: Appears that Dwayne Roloson and Martin Biron will stay on the Isles

    2:45 PM: Bob McKenzie: Milan Jurcina back to Washington.

    2:39 PM: Frank Seravalli: St. Louis may have offered Brad Boyes and Carlo Colaiacovo for Dan Hamhuis.

    2:35 PM: Darren Dreger: The Leafs are done yet

    2:24 PM: Sportsnet: Raffi Torres traded to the Sabres by the Blue Jackets.

    2:16 PM: Frank Seravalli: Talks between the Flyers and Islanders about Roloson have died down.

    2:06 PM: NHLSourcesSay: Canucks back off talks with Columbus about Milan Jurcina.

    2:04 PM: Michael Russo: Teams are calling about Owen Nolan, but Wild are saying no at the moment.

    1:40 PM: Darren Dreger: Kaberle says he has an agreement with Burke. Burke will tell him what the offers are.

    1:32 PM: TheFourthPeriod: Jeff Halpern is traded from the Lightning to the Kings.

    1:26 PM: Bruce Garrioch: Mathieu Schneider going to Phoenix from Vancouver.

    12:20 PM: Craig Custance: Leafs not getting calls on Grabovski. Atlanta willing to move Devil’s #1 pick.

    12:18 PM: Steve Zipay: Enver Lisin and Aaron Voros clear waivers.

    12:15 PM: Frank Seravalli: Flyers are still in the hunt for Dan Hamhuis.

    12:08 PM: Nick Kypreos: Oilers claim Ryan Jones off waivers from Nashville.

    12:04 PM: Adrian Dater: Bruins inquired about Wolski, but Avs would want a 1st rounder, not likely

    12:01 PM: Andy Strickland: Flyers shopping Matt Carle, Lightning shopping Mike Smith, both getting little attention.

    11:48 AM: Chip Alexander: Carolina sends Aaron Ward to Anaheim for Justin Pogge and a 4th round pick.

    11:34 AM: Bob McKenzie: Florida sends Seidenberg and Bartowski to Boston for Craig Weller, Byron Bitz, and a 2nd round pick

    11:30 AM: Kevin Allen: Thrashers getting interest in Slava Kozlov. Undecided on what to do with Colby Armstrong. Looking for a top 6 forward.

    11:22 AM: Ben Wright: Kubina may be close to an extension with the Thrashers, doesn’t look like he’ll be moved.

    11:16 AM: Ian Mendes: Doesn’t look like the Senators will be doing anything today.

    11:15 AM: David Pagnotta: The Blue Jackets have inquired about Oilers Tom Gilbert (before Olympic break), another team in mix.

    11:05 AM: Adrian Dater: Svatos to Phoenix is a possibility.

    11:03 AM: Kevin Allen: Leafs not close to anything for Stempniak, Exelby, or Primeau

    10:58 AM: Bob McKenzie: Leafs send Martin Skoula to the Devils.

    10:54 AM: Larry Brooks: Islanders getting calls on Richard Park.

    10:25 AM: Bruce Garrioch: Deal is pending, Derek Morris going to Phoenix.

    10:23 AM: Craig Custance: Thrashers aren’t interested in trading Pavel Kubina.

    10:21 AM: Bruce Garrioch: Ray Whitney is getting interest from Washington.

    10:19 AM: David Pagnotta: Oilers and Rangers are talking, Souray not involved in talks.

    10:07 AM: Craig Custance: Custance asked Kaberle camp if they would consider waiving no trade clause for the right team, “No true” was the reply.

    10:04 AM: Frank Seravalli: Panthers are asking for Jeff Carter for Tomas Vokoun. They have no interest Simon Gagne. Vokoun did waive his no trade clause.

    10:02 AM: Bob McKenzie: Columbus asking for a 1st round pick for Raffi Torres.

    9:54 AM: Tim Panaccio: Tomas Vokoun might have just waived his no-trade clause.

    Twitter Rumors from earlier this morning

    Darren Dreger: Nashville may keep Hamhuis for the playoffs and trade his rights in the summer.

    TheFourthPeriod: The Ducks called the Leafs about Tomas Kaberle, told he won’t waive no-trade.

    John Shannon: If the Hurricanes can trade Aaron Ward and Scott Walker, Ray Whitney may stay.

    TheFourthPeriod: Word out of Montreal is that they want Nathan Horton.

    Darren Dreger: 3 or 4 teams interested in Dennis Seidenberg, who is owed a $1 million plus bonus at end of June.

    Bruce Garrioch: The NY Islanders have shown interest in Oilers Andrew Cogliano.

    Steve Simmons: Kaberle not in play, though that could change as the day progresses. There is no list.

    Kukla’s Korner: Doubtful that Whitney gets traded today.

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    NHL Trade Rumors from Twitter for March 2nd

    Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on March 2nd, 2010

    We’ll continue to bring you updates from Twitter and elsewhere throughout today and tomorrow. Keep up-to-date will all player trades on our NHL Trade Tracker page. If you need a quick break from the rumors, check out the relaxed Wayne Gretzky.

  • 6:57 PM: Chris Botta: The Islanders have an offer that involves absorbing a big salary, and owner Charles Wang will be consulted
  • 6:55 PM: EJ Hradek: The Hurricanes won’t move Ray Whitney and Joe Corvo for the sake of moving them, Rutherford wants value in return.
  • 6:52 PM: Nick Kypreos: Alex Ponikarovsky won’t be in the lineup tonight.
  • 6:51 PM: Kevin Allen: Leafs getting action on Alexei Ponikarovsky, should land them a good prospect or active player, not a 1st rounder.
  • 6:43 PM: James Mirtle: Canucks need a defenceman to replace Willie Mitchell. Cory Schneider is in play.
  • 5:11 PM: Bob McKenzie: To all suggesting Dwayne Roloson is a Flyers, Bob was told he was starting for the Isles tonight.
  • 4:37 PM: Tim Panaccio: With Ray Emery done for the season, and the Islanders moving Dwayne Roloson, could he be a Flyer.
  • 4:09 PM: Bruce Garrioch: The Blues have sent out a memo saying Brad Boyes and Carlo Coliacovo are available.
  • 3:31 PM: Nick Kypreos: Paul Kariya has told the Blues he won’t waive his no-trade clause. Keith Tkachuk doesn’t want to move either.
  • 3:29 PM: Bob McKenzie: Tomas Kaberle hasn’t supplied the Leafs with the list of teams he’d waive his no-trade clause for, and has no desire to leave.
  • 2:48 PM: Bob McKenzie: Ray Whitney may not be dealt unless the Kings get back in, Pittsburgh appears to be out.
  • 2:44 PM: Michael Russo: There is a good chance Owen Nolan is dealt.
  • 2:43 PM: Bob McKenzie: The Avalanche have put Wojtek Wolski in play, the Coyotes are one team interested.
  • 2:30 PM: Michael Russo: Zidlicky signs a 3 year, $12 million deal. No trade clause for the first half of the deal.
  • 2:08 PM: Michael Russo: Zidlicky confirms he’s close to signing extension with the Wild.
  • 2:04 PM: Tim Panaccio: To begin talks involving Raffi Torres, teams need a 2nd rounder.
  • 1:43 PM: Bruce Garrioch: The Senators acquire Andy Sutton from the Islanders for a 2nd round pick. The 2nd round pick is the one they acquired from the Sharks (Bob McKenzie).
  • 1:42 PM: John Shannon: So far, Vokoun has not waived his no-trade clause.
  • 1:40 PM: James Mirtle: The Bruins have acquired Dman Steven Kampfer from the Ducks for a 2010 or 2011 4th round pick.
  • 1:19 PM: David Pagnotta: Doesn’t think the Flyers are getting Tomas Vokoun, they don’t have the cap space.
  • 12:44 PM: Erik Erlendsson: The Lightning have green light to make playoff push, and are linked to Raffi Torres and Kris Versteeg.
  • 12:38 PM: NHL Sources Say: Penguins looking to move Jay McKee.
  • 12:37 PM: Darren Dreger: Maple Leafs say there is ‘no chance’ to the rumor of Cristobal Huet heading to Toronto.
  • 12:36 PM: Tim Panaccio: Riley Cote and Danny Syvret cleared waivers.
  • 12:23 PM: Nick Kypreos: Players on waivers as of noon. Lukowich – Vancouver, Oulahen – Detroit, Lisin – Rangers, Voros – Rangers, Eriksson – Coyotes, Chelios – Thrashers, Jones – Predators, Grahame – Avalanche.
  • 12:04 PM: Ben Wright: The Thrashers have signed Chris Chelios. He’ll stay in minors until he clears waivers.
  • 12:01 PM: Greg Brady (AM 640): Rumors of Leafs sending Jeff Finger to the Blackhawks for Cristobal Huet. If true, Hauks could go hard after Vokoun and Leafs could flip Huet.

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    Almost Trade Deadline Day

    Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on March 2nd, 2010

  • 3:59 PM: TheFourthPeriod: Alexei Ponikarovsky is close to be dealt. The Kings, Penguins, and Predators have shown serious interest. The Leafs are hoping for a 1st round pick, but might take a 2nd and top prospect.
  • 10:57 AM: Brad Ziemer of the Vancouver Sun: Finding some 3rd line scoring is on the wish list of Canucks coach, Alain Vigneault. If GM Mike Gillis agrees, he may look at Steve Reinprecht, who he considered bringing in last season. Other options could be Eric Belanger, Doug Weight, or Jeff Halpern. If they are worried about Willie Mitchell’s health, they might look at Aaron Ward or Andy Sutton. 2006 1st round pick, Michael Grabner, might be bait to bring in some help.
  • 10:52 AM: Chris Vivlamore of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution: Don Waddell tells Chris he’ll be a buyer more than a seller. He’d like to add a forward with size, and some scoring to make up for Kovalchuk’s departure. He’s talked to 15 teams, but there isn’t a lot of options available. A few teams have called about Slava Kozlov.
  • 10:46 AM: Chuck Gormley of the Courier-Post: The Flyers may also be talking to the Predators about goalie Dan Ellis. This would make a lot of sense for the Flyers as Ray Emery is on LTIR and Michael Leighton is their starting goalie. It would make sense for them even if Emery wasn’t on LTIR.
  • 10:43 AM: TheFouthPeriod: The Kings may have moved on from Ray Whitney and may target, Slava Kozlov, Alexei Ponikarovsky, Raffi Torres or Paul Kariya.
  • 10:39 AM: Chris Botta at NYI Point Blank: The Isles have had a couple offers, 2nd round picks for Andy Sutton but they may hold out for a 2nd rounder plus an additional pick.
  • 10:36 AM: Frank Seravalli of the Philadephia Daily News: Sources are saying the Flyers will send Ryan Parent and Braydon Coburn to the Preds for Hamhuis. May happen when Cote and Syvret clear waivers at noon today.
  • 10:31 AM: Tim Panaccio of CSNPhilly: The Flyers and Predators have talked about Dan Hamhuis. The Preds have asked about several players, including Ryan Parent, who they sent to Philly in the Forsberg deal in 2007.
  • 10:25 AM: Sam Carchiki of the Philadelphia Inquirer: The Flyers freed up $2 million in cap room by placing Ray Emery on LTIR and waiving Riley Cote, bringing their total cap room up to $2.8 million. They have shown interest in Alex Frolov, Raffi Torres, and Colby Armstrong. Dan Hamhuis could be their main target.
  • 10:23 AM: Kevin Mio of Habs Inside/Out: The Canadiens and Tomas Plekanec’s agent held talks during the Olympic break, and will continue to talk after the trade deadline day.
  • 10:19 AM: Chris McCosky of the Detroit News: Red Wings GM Ken Holland doesn’t expect to make any moves at the deadline, but if he does do something, it will have to be dollar-for-dollar as they are against the cap. “Our trade deadline was Franzen, Lilja and Kronwall,” he said, referring to the healthy return of Johan Franzen, Andreas Lilja and Niklas Kronwall. “Not too many teams are going to do any better than that.”
  • Steve Gorten of the Sun-Sentinel: After trading Jordan Leopold yesterday, and Dominic Moore before the Olympics, the Panthers may still not be finished dealing. Tomas Vokoun, Dennis Seidenberg, Rostislav Olesz, Cory Stillman, and Steven Reinprect, could be some of the few that are moved.
  • Robert Tychkowski of the Edmonton Sun: The Oilers acquired a 2nd round pick for Denis Grebeshkov yesterday, and they will still make several other moves. From GM Steve Tambellini, “I wouldn’t say everyone is on the block, but given where we are I’d be crazy not to listen to everything,” he said. “That doesn’t mean we’re going to do it, but I’ll listen to everything.”
  • Michael Russo and Chip Scoggins of the Star Tribune: The Minnesota Wild and Marek Zidlicky have contract that is all but complete. It is a 3 year deal for the 33 year old, but the sticking point is the full no-trade clause that Zidlicky wants. The Wild only want to include a no-trade clause for part of the contract. If they can’t agree on the contract, they’ll most likely trade Zidlicky. They are also getting some calls about Owen Nolan, and it’s also rumored that they might be willing to trade Eric Belanger.
  • Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Marek Svatos is waiting to be traded, his bags are already packed, now he’s just waiting for the Avalanche to trade him. Svatos was in the lineup last night playing on the 2nd line, with scouts from at least 2 teams in attendance, the Blackhawks and Sharks.
  • Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Ladislav Smid’s name was creeping into a few trade rumors, but that will probably be the end of them as he has bulging disc in his neck. In the next few days he’ll visit a neurologist to decide if he’ll just need a short rest, or if it will be a season ending injury, that might require surgery.

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    Trade talk is picking up as Olympic Freeze is Over

    Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on March 1st, 2010

  • 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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    Turco Staying Now? Ellis Staying in Nashville? Caps Looking Winger and Dman … Lilja to be Cleared

    Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on February 25th, 2010

  • Richard Durrett of ESPNDallas.com: So the Stars have waived Alex Auld, who might get claimed, and would definitely get claimed if put on re-entry waivers. It looks like the Marty Turco will be staying with Stars. “He’s obviously stepped his game up and has been very consistent for us the last six or seven games,” Nieuwendyk said. “When we sit back and think about it, we have to decide what gives us the best chance in the month of March. Rather than put a lot of pressure on Lehtonen, we’ll have Marty play the way he is.”
  • Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: Heika thinks the Stars will move Steve Ott. This move would clear up some cap space that could be used on a right winger or defenseman.
  • John Glennon of the Tennessean: With the Predators re-signing of Pekka Rinne yesterday, Poile said it doesn’t mean they will trade Dan Ellis. Poile also has said in the past that they wouldn’t trade one of their goalies unless they had one signed.
  • TheFourthPeriod: The Capitals and Blues were talking before the Olympic roster freeze. The Caps would like to add a physical defenseman and a veteran forward. The Capitals are said to be interested in Blues Dman Barrett Jackman, and Blue Jackets winger Raffi Torres.
  • Bob McKenzie via Twitter: Lightning head coach wasn’t too pleased with the firing of his assistant coach, Wes Walz.
  • Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: Red Wings Dman, Andreas Lilja will be cleared to return to action by today. Lilja has been out since last February 28th. Kirk Maltby will be having right shoulder surgery, and will be out for 4-6 weeks, so there is a chance he’ll return for the playoffs.
  • Robert Tychkowski of the Edmonton Sun: The Olympic break gave many NHLers’ time to heal, but it wasn’t enough for Oilers forward, Sam Gagner. Gagner injured his knee before the break, and 2 MRI’s releaved no structural damage. He is not able to practice yet, but still hopes to be able to return on March 2nd versus Nashville.

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    Some Players that Could be Moved … Senators looking for Dman Rental

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

  • Jeff Gordon of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: The Canadiens are looking to remake their roster. Tomas Vokoun, David Booth and Nathan Horton could draw some interest. The Blue Jackets are looking to move Raffi Torres, Jan Hejda, and Milan Jurcina. The Flyers, Capitals, and Blackhawks could upgrade their goaltending. The Penguins could be interested in Ray Whitney and/or Blues Dman, Barret Jackman.
  • Ken Warren of the Ottawa Citizen: Senators GM, Bryan Murray will be looking to add a rental defenseman. Some of their options could be Pavel Kubina, Dennis Seidenberg, Jordan Leopold, Dan Hamhuis or Brendan Bell. The Sens are still trying to sign Anton Volchenkov to a contract extension, but it might cost them Mike Komisarek dollars (5 years, $22.5 million). The Sens think that 2009 1st round pick, Jared Cowen, could be ready for the NHL next season. 2008 2nd round pick, Patrick Wiercioch, could leave the University of Denver early.

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    Pens Looking for Winger, Dman … Trade Talks Involving Hamhuis Pick Up … Ott Getting Interest

    Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Rumors on February 21st, 2010

  • Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: Penguins GM Ray Shero is looking for a goal scoring winger for Evgeni Malkin and a physical defenseman. The Pens 22 man roster is about a $1 million below the cap ceiling. Their rental options are Alexei Ponikarovsky, Raffi Tores, Lee Stempniak, and Ray Whitney.
  • James Murphy of NESN: Trade discussions involving Predators defenseman Dan Hamhuis have intensified, and he could be dealt as soon as the Olympic roster freeze is lifted. The Bruins, Penguins and Sabres are at the top of list of teams looking to acquire Hamhuis. The asking price is a scoring forward and a late 1st round, or early 2nd round draft pick. Raffi Torres and Alexander Frolov are also linked to the Bruins.
  • Mike Heika of the Dallas Stars:  Stars GM Joe Nieuwendyk will meet with Steve Ott to see if they can get him re-signed. If not, they might look at dealing him. They’ve already received offers for him. Nieuwendyk is also looking for a top 4 defenseman, but knows it’s costly to acquire those.

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    Another Kaberle Rumor … Something to Happen in Buffalo?

    Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Rumors on February 18th, 2010

  • Ken Campbell of The Hockey News: The Tomas Kaberle rumors won’t go away despite Burke saying he won’t ask him to waive his no-trade clause, and Kaberle saying he wants to stay. This one has the Leafs sending Kaberle to the Canucks for prospect Cody Hodgson.
  • John Vogl of the Buffalo News: Sabres GM, Darcy Regier has made a trade at the deadline in each of his 11 seasons. Does Regier look to add a power-play quarterback, like a Joe Corvo? Could they go after a Cory Stillman or Nathan Horton from Florida, or the gritty Ben Eager from Chicago?
  • Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: The Blue Jackets will be trading Raffi Torres, who said he’d be fine with re-signing with them even if he’s traded, but that probably won’t happen. The money they save should go into a fund to upgrade their defense. Hejda or Klesla may not be back next season. Mike Commedore’s contract makes him hard to trade. Milan Jurcina is trade bait.
  • Ron Cook of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: The Penguins don’t plan on trading a 1st round pick and a prospect for anyone. Cross off Ray Whitney then. Max Talbot, if he can return healthy, will be like adding someone at the deadline. The Penguins could use a big, tough, physical defenseman. Alex Goligoski might bring in that type of player.

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