Posts Tagged Sergei Bobrovsky
Isles could be interested in trading 5th overall pick … More on Flyers-Jackets trade discussions … New coaches coming to Ottawa and Dallas … Rule 48 tweaks
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 14th, 2011
- Chris Botta of the NYI Point Blank: If the right player was offered up for the Islanders 1st round pick (5th overall), they wouldn’t hesitate. Flyers Jeff Carter could be that type of player in terms of age and talent, but his cap hit of $5.2 million for 11 years and his sometimes pouty temperament might rule him out. The Islanders have trouble convincing top free agents to come, so looking at the trade route makes sense. They are unwilling to move any of their top prospects. The Islanders won’t be interested in trading their 5th overall pick just to give a cap team a break or for an overpaid aging player, will want equal value. In all likelihood, the Isles will end up keeping the pick.
- Katie Strang via twitter: Islanders pre-draft visits: Huberdeau yetserday, Couturier and Hamilton today, Ryana Murphy tomorrow.
- Tim Panaccio of CSNPhilly: Despite the rumors, discussions earlier between Flyers GM Paul Holmgren and Blue Jackets GM Scott Howson weren’t about Jeff Carter or the Jackets 8th overall pick. At the time (draft combine, before Bryzgalov trade) the 2 sides were discussing goalie Steve Mason. Now the sides have talked about the pick in a “lesser deal” according to sources. The Flyers don’t want to move Carter. The Flyers would rather move other pieces worth at least $5 million. Matt Carle could interest the Blue Jackets who are looking for a power-play defenseman, but it would take more than that to get the 8th pick. Howson may not be interseted in Scott Hartnell ($4.2 million) or Kris Versteeg ($3.083 million) as he may be looking for an impact centerman. Sergei Bobrovsky would likely be traded as well if they are able to sign Bryzgalov to a long-term deal.
- Pavel Lysenkov of SovSport.ru: The closer it gets to July 1st, the more likely that Jaromir Jagr won’t sign in the KHL, and he could head back to the NHL. SKA has already rejected Jagr. Vanguard isn’t offering much.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: Sources are saying that the Dallas Stars could name Glen Gulutzan as their next head coach by the end of this week. Gulutzan is the head coach of their AHL affiliate, the Texas Stars.
- Allen Panzeri of the Ottawa Citizen: The Ottawa Senators will announce that former Detroit Red Wings assistant Paul MacLean will be the teams 9th head coach, and 4th coach under GM Bryan Murray’s watch. Ottawa Senators via twitter: Sens TV will be streaming the 11 am press conference live, Murray will be making the announcement.
- Pierre LeBrun and Scott Brunside of ESPN: The NHL competition committee is getting closer to approving the rewording of Rule 48.
“We’re definitely headed down the right path in expanding Rule 48,” Schneider said after Monday’s six-hour meeting. “What it’s coming down to is getting the wording down on paper properly and Brendan and I will continue to talk over the next few days and try to nail something down.”
According to the new Rule 48, any hit that targets the head and where the head is the principal point of contact will be illegal. Under terms of Rule 48 this season, only blindside hits to the head were illegal. “It’s very similar to what we talked about at the GMs meeting in the sense of broadening the rule,” league executive Rob Blake said Monday after the meeting. “The exact interpretation will go forward. But we had a good understanding that the union, the players and the NHL together want to go forward for the safety of the players.”
- Darren Millard via twitter: Winnipeg won’t release logo/name on Thursday, but will happen soon.
Penguins offseason notes … Columbus tells 3 they aren’t coming back … Flyers figuring out Bryzgalov parameters … MacTavish leading Wild candidate
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 13th, 2011
- Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: Sidney Crosby has started his off-ice offseason workouts. Penguins GM Ray Shero plans to re-sign Dustin Jeffrey to a new deal this month. Tyler Kennedy is a RFA and the Pens make take him to arbitration to see what he’s awarded. If he’s in the $2 million range, which comparables suggest he could get, they may keep him. Rossi thinks he could also be traded. Defenseman Matt Niskanen could be available if any team is interested. Max Talbot is asking for 4 years and Pascal Dupuis is asking for a 3 year contract, the Pens don’t really want to go that long for either. Mike Rupp may be thinking he can get more on the open market than from the Penguins.
- Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: The Blue Jackets have informed Ethan Moreau, Chris Clark and Craig Rivet that they won’t be re-signed. The Jackets are still thinking about re-signing Jan Hejda (50/50) and Scottie Upshall (unlikely).
- Chuck Gormley of the Courier Post: Flyers GM Paul Holmgren spent part of the weekend finding out the parameters to get Ilya Bryzgalov signed to a 5 to possibly 8 year term. He might be able to get upwards of $6 million if he were to hit the free agent market on July 1st. To get Bryzgalov at a cap friendly number of around $5 million, they may have to start to $7 million and go down to $2 million on a 7 or 8 year deal. Putting Ian Laperriere on a LTIR would take $1.2 million off their cap number, they’re at about $59 million now. Trading Jeff Carter is one option, moving Matt Carle and Kris Versteeg is another. Sergei Bobrovsky may also find himself in a trade as he would have to pass through waivers if he was to be sent to the AHL or recalled from AHL. If Bryzgalov is signed to a long-term deal, Bobrovsky may not get his shot as a #1, and they may be able to get a 2nd round pick or top prospect in return.
- Michael Russo of the Star-Tribune: Craig MacTavish was in Minnesota last week and had his 2nd interview for the vacant head coaching position. He’s considered to be the leading candidate at the moment.
Bob likely to start, Pronger doubtful … Capitals injuries and off-season notes … Tarasenko could join Blues next year
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 6th, 2011
- Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: It looks like Sergei Bobrovsky will get the start tonight. He hasn’t started since Game 2 of the Buffalo series. Chris Pronger is doubtful for tonight, but hasn’t been ruled out by GM Paul Holmgren. Pronger is believed to be bothered by a lower back/hamstring injury. Jeff Carter didn’t practice yesterday but is expected to play tonight.
- Jesse Spector of the NY Daily News: Rangers forward Ryan Callahan thinks a new contract from the RFA can easily be agreed upon. The Rangers would have to make a $2.4 million qualifying offer to retain his rights.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Sources are saying there is slightly greater than 50% chance that Vladimir Tarasenko joins the St. Louis Blues next season.
- Corey Masisak of NHL.com: Capitals GM George McPhee said he “expects” Bruce Boudreau to be back next season. The Caps don’t have a lot of cap space available for next season, 18 players at almost $51 million. Brooks Laich and Jason Arnott are UFA’s. Laich made $2.4 million last year and could be in demand if he hits the open market. Prospect Evgeny Kuznetsov could challenge for a roster spot if he decides to leave Russia, “We have lots to talk about over the summer,” McPhee said. “(Kuznetsov) may want to play another year, and if he feels he needs another year in Russia, he can do it. If he feels he’s ready to play here, we can talk about that, too.” Mike Green and Dennis Wideman have the summer to heal up from their injuries.Semyon Varlamov is a RFA, he made $1.15 million, and his Russian agent said he could consider signing in the KHL.
- Tarik El-Bashir of the Washington Capitals: Capitals injury notes. Mike Knuble only missed 3 games with a broken thumb that had pins in it. Mike Green suffered a hip flexor injury in Game 2. Tom Poti only played 21 games this year, and his career could be in jeopardy with a groin muscle strain. John Carlson suffered a hip pointer injury in Game 1. Alex Ovechkin said he had more than one injury, with one said to be his knee that he had surgery on in March. Jason Arnott had surgery on his knee late in the season.
- Rich Hammond of LA Kings Insider: Kings forward Justin Williams had surgery this week on his right shoulder that was dislocated late in the season. He’s expected to be ready by training camp.
- CP in the Globe and Mail: Former NHLer Donald Brashear will make his MMA debut next month in a Quebec event.
Carlson, Gagne and Kubina hurt last night … Flyers roster notes … Dallas Stars sale progressing
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News on April 30th, 2011
- Katie Carrera of the Washington Post: Capitals rookie defenseman John Carlson collided with Nate Thompson late in the 2nd period. He lasted about 36 seconds on 2 very short shifts in the 3rd before leaving for good. He’ll be listed as day-to-day, and Bruce Boudreau is hoping he’ll be able to go on Sunday.
- Joe Smith of the St. Petersburg Times: Lightning forward Simon Gagne likely suffered a concussion in the 1st period after his head slammed against the ice after a Scott Hannon hit. Gagne has a history of concussions. Defenseman Pavel Kubina also left the game. His head banged off the glass after taking a Jason Chimera hit, who received a roughing penalty.
- Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: The Flyers will likely go with 6 defense in Game 1 (had been going with 7 due to the uncertainty of Chris Pronger’s hand). Defenseman Danny Syvret will likely be a healthy scratch. Jody Shelley or rookie Zac Rinaldo will be on the 4th line. Jeff Carter is doubtful for the first 2 games of the series. Andreas Nodl practiced but won’t go in Game 1. Sergei Bobrovsky will backup Brian Boucher as Michael Leighton still has a sore back.
- George Richards of the Miami Herald: The Panthers have had some contract discussions with 2010 1st round draft pick, Erik Gudbranson, “but there’s no deadline. We don’t have to have him signed right now. There are more pressing issues.” They’ve also had one “general” discussion with Tomas Vokoun people, so there is chance that he may not leave by free agency.
- Tim Sassone of the Daily Herald: There is a small group of Blackhawk fans who think they should trade Patrick Kane. (um…okay…yeah….do these people know anything about hockey? This makes absolutely no sense and isn’t going to happen. It doesn’t deserve to be even posted, but I did it anyways as it’s pretty funny.)
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: Two sources confirmed that Tom Gaglardi is in the 30-day negotiation window to purchase the Dallas Stars. Gaglardi’s offer is “significantly” better than the other offers. If everything goes to plan, the deal could be done by June. This could be helpful in giving the Stars an opportunity to have some serious negotiations with Brad Richards (though Richards may want to test the free agent market anyways). It would also allow them to get their new head coach in place. Possible candidates are Texas Stars coach Glen Gulutzan or Canadiens assistand coach Kirk Muller (in yesterday’s post and in that article we/they said that Kirk Muller will likely get the job).
Richards not suspended for hit on Connolly … Norris finalists announced … Roy in for Game 7 … Boucher to start Game 7… Kaberle responds to Chiarelli’s comments
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Videos on April 25th, 2011
- Norris finalists are Zdeno Chara, Nicklas Lidstrom and Shea Weber.
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: Flyers center Mike Richards won’t be suspended for his hit from behind on Sabres Tim Connolly.
- Sam Carchidi via twitter: Tim Connolly will be out for Game 7, Derek Roy is in. Mike Harrington of the Buffalo News: “Tim’s not doing very good,” said Sabres coach Lindy Ruff. “That’s something the league definitely has to take a look at. It’s a lack of respect for another player on the ice. It’s from behind. It’s head first. That’s a tough play. We lost a good player.”
- Sam Carchidi via twitter: Carchidi thinks that if Brian Boucher needs to be replaced in Game 7 it should be by Sergei Bobrovsky. Mike Harrington of the Buffalo News: “Brian Boucher will start Game Seven,” Laviolette said.
- Katie Carrera via twitter: Capitals defenseman Dennis Wideman skated in full pad today for the first time since suffering his leg hematoma.
- Katie Carrera via twitter: According to coach Bruce Boudreau there is no timetable on when Mike Knuble or Dennis Wideman will be back in the lineup. Mike Green isn’t on the ice today but is ‘okay.’
- Joe McDonald of ESPN Boston: Bruins defenseman Tomas Kaberle responded to GM Peter Chiarelli’s “disappointment” comments,
“I always put a lot of pressure on myself,” Kaberle said, “and hopefully I can prove why I am here. I would like to help out in every little thing I can do on the ice. Obviously I’m one of the guys on the [power play] and it would be nice to get something going there.
“The first couple of games I could have been better. The last few games I felt a lot better and I’m feeling better confidence-wise, so I’ll take it from there.”
At the time of the trade, Chiarelli and Kaberle’s agent, Rick Curran, agreed to put off contract talks until the off-season. There has been no communication between the two sides since then. Curran didn’t think Chiarelli’s comments were a concern for future talks. Kaberle has been paired with stay-at-home defenseman Adam McQuaid lately.
- Tom Gulitti of the Bergon Record: Parise says he’s interested in staying in NJ, enjoys his teammates and has fun play there. He hasn’t talked to his agents about contract details.
- Mike Richards hit on Tim Connolly
Wild could move Burns … Avs best bet for Vokoun … Pronger unlikely for tonight … Bogosian’s future
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on April 18th, 2011
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: The Minnesota Wild may consider moving defenseman Brent Burns because they may not want to pay him $5 million a season when his current contract runs out after next year. They’ll want offense in a return for him. The Flyers have extra forwards and the Sharks have always liked him. The Blue Jackets likely won’t re-sign defenseman Jan Hejda. The Avalanche are the best bet to sign UFA Tomas Vokoun. Vokoun turns 35 on July 2nd, so if he’s not signed on July 1st, his salary cap number will stay on the books if he retires and can’t be bought out. Omsk of the KHL has expressed some interest.
- Phil Sheridan of the Philadelphia Inquirer: Flyers Dman Chris Pronger is unlikely for tonight’s game, but could make a return on Wednesday for Game 4. Coach Peter Laviolette isn’t saying who will be between the pipes for tonight’s game. Sheridan thinks the Flyers should go with Sergei Bobrovsky, but others are saying Brian Boucher. Mike Harrington of the Buffalo News: Harrington says that it seems likely that the Flyers will go with Boucher in net.
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: Brooks thinks that if the Boston Bruins don’t make it to at least the conference finals that Devils GM Lou Lamoriello will have the chance to rehire Claude Julien as the next coach of the Devils.
- Chris Vivlamore of the Atlanta Journal-Consitution: Thrashers RFA Zach Bogosian was asked about his future with the Thrashers,
I guess it will be interesting to see what happens. I haven’t had any talks with management yet. I’m just going home and getting ready to be the best player I can be. … That’s what my agent is there for. I’ve had him for awhile so I’m pretty comfortable with him. It’s something that I haven’t put too much thought into but now that the season is over you can put more thought into.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Former NHL coach Craig MacTavish has said it’s “unlikely” that he would coach St. Petersburg in the KHL. Last week it was reported that team chairman and KHL president Alexander Medvedev said that MacTavish was one of four candidates for the head coaching position. It’s been reported that MacTavish did fly to Russia late last week.
Bolland and Pronger doubtful for their Game 3′s … Bob or Boosh? Burke to put out an offer sheet? Options for Leafs
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Videos on April 17th, 2011
- Chris Kuc via twitter: David Bolland is doubtful for Game 3 according to coach Joel Quennville.
- Katie Carrera of the Washington Post: Backstrom and Arnott trade places at yesterday’s practice. Capitals forward lines: Ovechkin-Arnott-Knuble, Sturm-Backstrom-Semin, Laich-Johansson-Chimera, Hendricks-Gordon-Bradley, King-Beagle-Fehr
- Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: A source close to the Flyers said before yesterday’s game there is a “50/50″ chance that Chris Pronger will be in the lineup Monday. After the game he said “He’s probably out Monday.” So it’s looking like a ‘must win’ would get Pronger back in the lineup. Who will be in net for the Flyers on Monday is the next big question. Laviolette pointed out that Bobrovsky has bounced back from tough games in the past. Arguments for both sides are,
For those in “Bob’s” corner: Boucher seems better suited in a relief role than Bobrovsky because of his experience. In addition, Bobrovsky has been more effective on the road than Boucher.
- Michael Russo of the Star-Tribune: From an interview with Wild owner Craig Leipold: On GM Chuck Fletcher, “He knows he has my complete and absolute confidence.” Fletcher has full control on hiring the next coach, and there is “no financial restraints when it comes to a coach.”
- Sean Leahy via twitter: “SKA & KHL Pres Medvedev claims Hitchcock & MacTavish are 2 of 4 finalists for head coach.”
- Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun: “Brian Burke said an offer sheet for restricted free agents is not out of the question in the future.” Some RFA’s this year are, Steven Stamkos, Shea Weber, Zach Parise, Keith Yandle, Zach Bogosian. If Brad Richards doesn’t want to sign with the Leafs, would they look at the next best option, Brooks Laich of Washington? Another intriguing UFA is Ville Leino.
- Mark Zwolinski of the Toronto Star: Zwolinski looks at some possible UFA centers the Maple Leafs could look at. Brad Richards: Will either re-sign with the Stars or sign with the Rangers. Simon Gagne: more of a LWer. Tim Connolly: could fill the hole for a year or two. Jason Arnott: same as Connolly. Michal Handzus: a long shot, but how much game does he have left. Zwolinski looks at some possible trade partners. New York Rangers: RFA’s Brandon Dubinsky, Brian Boyle. Rookie Derek Stepan and Erik Christensen has 1 year left before he’s a UFA. Ottawa Senators: Jason Spezza has 3 years left and could be moved to restock the roster. Boston Bruins: David Krejci has been rumored to Toronto. Would be costly to add him, makes $3.75 million next year. Philadelphia Flyers: Jeff Carter has been linked to the Leafs in the past, he and Mike Richards are locked up long term. The Flyers have less than $500,000 in cap space for next year. A long shot. San Jose Sharks: They have to interesting centers, Joe Pavelski ($4 million) and Devin Setoguchi ($1.8 million). Both are not likely to be moved, unless they disappoint in the playoffs again. Setoguchi is an RFA this summer, Pavelski has 2 years left. New Jersey Devils: Zach Parise is a RFA this summer, can the Devils afford him.
For those in Boosh’s corner: Boucher has been the steadier goalie this season, and his experience gives the team a calming effect.
Some off-season decisions for the Flames … Kreider staying on College … Bolland and Brower back for Hawks … Pronger day-to-day still
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News on April 12th, 2011
- Ian Busby of the Calgary Sun: Flames forward Curtis Glencross potted 24 goals this season, and now he’s looking to cash in. “I want a long-term deal. That’s our biggest factor right now.” He made $1.2 million this past season, and hopes to get something done with the Flames. Alex Tanguay, Brendan Morrison, Steve Staios, Anton Babchuk, Brett Carson, and Henrik Karlsson are UFA’s for the Flames. It’s unlikely that Staios will be back. Karlsson hopes to stay in Calgary, and he thinks they might be interested.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: It was reported last week that Maple Leafs prospect Leo Komarov would be coming over to North America, but he told KHL.ru that he’s more likely to stay in the KHL.
- Dave Naylor via twitter: “Forbes.com calculates that Glendale’s plan would bring its spending to almost $400 million on a team valued at $134 million.”
- Jesse Spector of the NY Daily News: NY Rangers 2009 1st round pick Chris Kreider will be returning to Boston College next season for his junior year.
- Jim Jamieson of the Vancouver Province: With Manny Malhotra’s injury and Raffi Torres’s suspension, Cody Hodgson and Victor Oreskovich joined the Canucks yesterday. Hodgson centered Mason Raymond and Jannik Hansen at practice. Oreskovich could slot in beside Max Lapierre and Tanner Glass on the 4th line.
- Brian Hamilton and Chris Kuc of the Chicago Tribune: It looks like both David Bolland and Troy Brower will be in the lineup for the Blackhawks during their 1st round matchup with the Canucks. Bolland has been out since March 9th with a concussion. Brower has been out with a shoulder injury since last week.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Bob Hartley was a candidate to coach the Senators before they hired Cory Clouston, and was considered a candidate this time around, signed a deal to coach in the Swiss Elite League in Zurich.
- Tim Panaccio of CSNPhilly.com: Flyers defenseman Chris Pronger is still listed as day-to-day and no one knows or is saying if he’ll be ready to go in Game 1. He did not practice yesterday but took part in a special team’s meeting and did some off-ice rehab.
- Rich Hofmann of the Philadelphia Daily News: The Flyers will likely use both Sergei Bobrovsky and Brian Boucher during the playoffs.
Lemaire steps down as Devil coach again … Zetterberg to miss start of series, Kronwall to return … Bolland could be back in round 1 … Changes coming in Dallas, Carolina?
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News on April 11th, 2011
- Mark Everson of the NY Post: Jacques Lemaire has once again stepped down as the New Jersey Devils head coach. Lemaire took over from John MacLean who was fired on Dec. 23rd after posting a 9-22-2 record. The Devils were 29-17-3 under Lemaire, and posted a 23-3-2 run.
- Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: Red Wings forward Henrik Zetterberg is battling a knee injury. “I don’t expect him to start the series,” Babcock said. “But he’s really pushing things, and he’s working hard at it, and he’ll be ready to go as soon as he can.” Niklas Kronwall should be ready for Game 1 after missing the last 5 games with an upper-body injury.
- Craig Custance via twitter: Blackhawks coach Joel Quennville on center David Bolland, “Hopefully he can be a part early in this first series.”
- David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News: Sharks forward Ryane Clowe should be ready for Game 1.
- Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: Sergei Bobrovsky will be the starting goalie for the Flyers in their 1st round match-up against Ryan Miller and the Buffalo Sabres. Bobrovsky was 28-13-8 with a 2.59 GAA and .915 SV%. Miller was 34-22-8 with a 2.59 goals-against average and .916 SV%.
- Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: Stars GM Joe Nieuwendyk now faces the tough decision on whether they want to re-sign Brad Richards, and if they can afford to sign him. Other Stars UFA’s are Jamie Langenbrunner, Karlis Skrastins, Brandon Segal, Jason Williams, Brian Sutherby and Jeff Woywitka. They also have to decide if they want to make a coaching change or not.
- Eric Francis in the Toronto Sun: Don’t expect to hear any updates on Alex Tanguay and the Calgary Flames talks from Tanguay’s agent, Steve Kotlowitz. A decision should be made by May if ESPN and the NHL can come to terms on a TV deal.
- Katie Strang via twitter: Free agent Zenon Konopka is optimistic a deal will get down with the Islanders. It will be 8 weeks of rest with no surgery for several of his injuries.
- Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer: The Carolina Hurricanes could have a different look next year as Eric Cole, Joni Pitkanen, Jussi Jokinen, Chad LaRose, Cory Stillman, Pat Dwyer and Jay Harrison are UFA’s. GM Jim Rutherford said that re-signing Cole is a priority. They may be looking to make changes on their blueline, so Joni Pitkanen could be gone.
Leighton clears re-entry, to start on Saturday … Torres hearing at noon tomorrow … Some starting goalies
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News on April 6th, 2011
- John Shannon via twitter: Raffi Torres has noon hearing tomorrow via phone for his hit on Jordan Eberle.
- Eric Stephens via twitter: Antero Niittymaki will make his first start for the Sharks tonight since Jan. 13th. Curtis Zupke via twitter: Ray Emery will start for the Ducks against the Sharks.
- James Mirtle via twitter: James Reimer will start for the Maple Leafs tonight and on Saturday.
- Eric Stephens via twitter: Sharks winger Ryane Clowe won’t be in the lineup tonight, out with a lower body injury. Forward Scott Nichol will play in 2 of their last 3 games.
- Frank Seravalli via twitter: Sergei Bobrovsky will start on Friday for Flyers. Sam Carchidi via twitter: Sounds like Michael Leighton will start on Saturday for the Flyers. Bob McKenzie via twitter: Michael Leighton clears re-entry waivers.
Callahan breaks ankle … Flyers put Leighton on re-entry waivers … Sharp to skate in next day or 2 … Starting goalies
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News on April 5th, 2011
- New York Rangers via twitter: Rangers forward Ryan Callahan broke is ankle, Torts added “long term injury…out indefinitely.” Tortorella added that Matt Gilroy will dress as a RW on Thursday, “gives us some flexibility with having a 7th D in there.”
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Philadelphia has put Michael Leighton on re-entry waivers. Leighton has a salary of $1.6 million next year, $1.55 million salary cap hit. Claiming team and Flyers would be responsible for half. Leighton wouldn’t be eligible to play for new this year, including playoffs.
- Erik Erlendsson via twitter: Lightning center Vinny Lecavalier will be in the lineup tonight. Defenseman Eric Brewer will sit out, would play if it was a playoff game.
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Devils coach Jacques Lemaire said that Zach Parise won’t play tonight, and will be held out of back to backs.
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Devils goalie Johan Hedberg hasn’t thought if he’d wants to be back with the Devils next season yet. Martin Brodeur doesn’t want to say if he’ll play in 2012-13 due to the possibility of a long work stoppage.
- Tracey Myers via twitter: Blackhawks forward Patrick Sharp could skate in the next day or 2.
- Sam Carchidi via twitter: Daniel Briere’s injury is not serious, will probably play on Friday in Buffalo.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: Islanders Frans Nielsen (concussion) and Milan Jurcina (hip) will be out for the rest of the season.
- Jim Jamieson via twitter: Devan Dubnyk will start in net for the Oilers.
- Frank Seravalli via twitter: Sergei Bobrovsky will start in net for the Flyers.
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Johan Hedberg will start in net for the Devils.
Oshie suspended 2 games by Blues … Parise unsure about tomorrow … Bertuzzi won’t be suspended … Starting goalies
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Videos on March 29th, 2011
- Andy Stickland via twitter: TJ Oshie was suspended 2 games by the Blues. Oshie missed Monday’s practice, sources say it was “an unexcused absence.”
- Tampa Bay Lightning via twitter: Lightning forward Ryan Malone is awaiting doctor clearance, is a game time decision for tonight.
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Lines at NJ Devils practice today: Parise-Zajac-Palmieri; Kovalchuk-Josefson-Zubrus; Rolston-Elias-Tedenby; Mair-Steckel-Clarkson; Zharkov-Pelley.
- Tom Gulitti of the Bergon Record: Zach Parise is still not sure if he’ll be able to go tomorrow night, but he’ll play in at least 1 of the next 3 games. He took part in his 3rd full practice today.
“It would be the ability to have a couple more practices,” Parise said. “My biggest thing is wanting to play the game and only concentrating on the game and not worrying my knee, not worrying about my timing. I understand that the pace is going to be tough at the start, but I want the injury to be the last thing on my mind. I think you’re pretty vulnerable when you’re concerned with things like that, so I don’t want that to be the worry.”
Parise contract status, RFA at season’s end, has no bearing on him wanting to get into some games this year.
“I don’t think I have anything to prove,” he said. “That’s the least of my concerns right now is whether it’s going to hurt me or help me going into free agency. I don’t think it’s going to hurt. I don’t think it’s going to help either way. It’s only for me (that he wants to play), for my own state of mind.”
- Sam Carchidi via twitter: It will be Sergei Bobrovsky versus Marc-Andre Fleury tonight.
- George Richards via twitter: Scott Clemmensen will get the start in net for the Panthers tonight against the Blue Jackets.
- Ian Mendes via twitter: Curtis McElhinney will start for the Senators tonight against the Lightning.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: No further discipline for Todd Bertuzzi for his hit on Ryan Johnson.
Crosby’s father refutes retirement pressure report … Green back late this month and other Capitals notes … Paul Stastny clears air about is dad’s comments
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News on March 14th, 2011
- Renaud Lavoie via twitter: GM meetings today are all about head shots and concussions.
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: LeBrun talked to Sidney Crosby’s father on Friday and there was no truth to Bob McCown’s reports that Crosby’s family was trying to get him to retire. Still no timetable on a possible return. “Not at all,” Troy Crosby, from his Halifax, Nova Scotia, home, told ESPN. “We’re just trying to get him healthy again. However long that takes, that’s how long it’s going to take.”
- Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: As the Red Wings get closer to another playoff run, coach Mike Babcock is fine-tuning his line combinations. At home when Babcock has better control of the line combinations, he have Pavel Datsyuk and Henrik Zetterberg together. On the road, he’ll have them on 2 lines. Friday at home they were together with Johan Franzen. Saturday in St. Louis Datsyuk was with Franzen and Holmstrom, Zetterberg centered Bertuzzi and Cleary.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Flyer forward Ian Laperriere’s playing days are likely over. He hasn’t played since last season after blocking a shot with his face. “I still have some nerve damage in my right eye and the light bothers it.” New Sabres owner Terry Pegula is worth $3 billion according to Forbes. Sergei Bobrovsky is playing more than Brian Boucher now, but that might change in the playoffs. Mike Green may return to the Capitals lineup late this month as he’s still suffering concussion symptoms. Tom Poti could return next week, he’s been battling groin issues for hte last 2 months. Since Mike Knuble will be coming off the books for the Capitals, and if he’d take a pay cut to around $2.5 million, Jason Arnott could be back with the Capitals next year. As the playoffs get closer, Tyler Seguin has become a healthy scratch more often. The Capitals are 17-0-0 when Alexander Semin scores. It’s likely that Capitals’ 1st round pick Evgeny Kuznetsov will be playing in North America next season.
- Randy Sportak of the Calgary Herald: The Flames have already begun to look at upcoming free agents, identifying players and their team needs. They have UFA’s Alex Tanguay, Curtis Glencross and Brendan Morrison, Anton Babchuk and Feaster noted “We’re not any further along,” about those negotiations.
- David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News: Antti Niemi is expected to get the start tonight against the Blackhawks. Antero Niittymaki could get the start on start on Tuesday, ending Niemi’s 25 consecutive game run.
- Terry Frei of the Denver Post: Avalanche Paul Stastny talked to Eric Johnson about the negative comments his dad made about the trade that brought Johnson to Colorado. Paul said, “I talked to (Johnson). I told him it had nothing to do with him or Jay. I think it was more about losing Stewie, a rare power forward. When I talked with my dad, he said he meant no disrespect at all and he loves both players.”
- Ian Walker of the Vancouver Sun: Canucks winger Tanner Glass suffered an upper body injury in practice last week and tried to play through it. “I tried to play; I was treating it like a playoff game so if there was any chance I could go I would have but there was no way,” said Glass, 6-1 and 210-pounds. “It’s gotten progressively worse since the San Jose game and it’s one of those things … It’s muscular and if I keep pushing it, it’s going to get worse so I have to give it a few days.”
Hagman clears waivers … Backstrom has fractured thumb … Zherdev healthy scratch again … starting goalies
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News on February 22nd, 2011
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Flames forward Niklas Hagman cleared waivers. He may not be going to the AHL, they have 30 days/10 games to decide. McKenize adds that if they demote him, they won’t have the cap space to recall him, so he’d be there for the season.
- Joe Yerdon via twitter: Niklas Backstrom is day-to-day with a fractured thumb.
- Joshua Cooper via twitter: Predators forward Sergei Kostitsyn won’t be in the lineup tonight.
- Frank Seravalli via twitter: Nik Zherdev will be a healthy scratch for the 6th consecutive game.
- James Mirtle via twitter: Jonas Gustavsson and Christian Hanson have been sent to the Marlies by the Maple Leafs.
- Sean Fitz-Gerald via twitter: JS Giguere hopes to return this weekend, hints that he may need off-season surgery to fix groin area issue.
- Andrew Gross via twitter: Lines at Rangers practice: Dubi-Anisimov-Cally, Prospal-Boyle-Christensen, Wolski-Stepan-Zuccarello, and Avery-Newbury-Prust/Fedotenko.
- Andrew Gross via twitter: Henrik Lundqvist is the 1st goalie off the ice, likely to get the start.
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Johan Hedberg will be in the net for the Devils.
- Sam Charchidi via twitter: Sergei Bobrovsky will start for the Flyers tonight against the Coyotes.
- Thomas Reed via twitter: Steve Mason will be in net for the Blue Jackets tonight.
- Jonas Siegel via twitter: James Reimer will start in net for the Leafs tonight.
Komisarek in trouble with LAPD … Will Senators fire Clouston, claim Nabokov? Hawks-Seabrook talking contract not trade
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on January 22nd, 2011
- Kukla’s Korner providing link to TMZ story: TMZ as learned that Maple Leafs defenseman Mike Komisarek “allegedly punched a woman in the face at an L.A. nightclub earlier this month.”
Law enforcement sources tell us … the 28-year-old defensive powerhouse was named in a police report filed by a woman who claims the whole thing went down after Komisarek decided to lift her up in the air at a Hollywood nightclub.
We’re told the woman claims she demanded Komisarek put her down — but he refused — so she slapped him in the face.
The woman claims Komisarek immediately set her down … and then punched her in the face, causing her to bleed.
The woman claims Komisarek left the club … so she went to the cops.
- George Sipple of the Detroit Free Press: The Red Wings welcomed 3 injured players back to practice yesterday, Danny Cleary, Mike Modano and Pavel Datsyuk. Cleary and Datsyuk are expected to be back in the Wings lineup on Feb. 2. Modano is expected to be out until March. The Wings recalled goalie Jordan Pearce and sent down Joey MacDonald.
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: After a 7-1 loss, the end may be here for Senators coach Cory Clouston. There is one game left before the all-star break, so the timing could be perfect. The players know something could be happening soon. Garrioch thinks the Sens could put a claim on Evgeni Nabokov to help their “woeful goaltending situation.” Elliott Friedman in a series of tweets said he’d claim Nabokov if he were the Sens. Scott Morrison thinks there could be several teams interested in make a claim. Pierre LeBrun has also heard that several teams could be interested. LeBrun added that if a team claimed him, they could not turn around and trade him, he would have to go through waivers before he could be traded. Ansar Khan of MLive: Teams that could put a claim on Nabokov could be Senators, Islanders (shot down yesterday), Sharks, or possibly teams looking for a backup Kings, Coyotes, Ducks, Blues, Flames and Hurricanes.(If I’m the Senators, I don’t make a claim. Their season is basically lost and they don’t have a shot to the playoffs. They’ll get a high draft pick in the #3-7 range, why try to improve to the #7-12 range. Though there is not guarantee he could help them out that much. Time to clear house and rebuild.)
- Craig Custance of the Sporting News: Blackhawks GM Stan Bowman shoots down the rumors that they might trade soon to be RFA Brent Seabrook. “There’s no truth to that at all. He’s been dynamite for us here,” Bowman told Sporting News. “We’re trying to re-sign him.” Talks are talking place, “I wouldn’t say we’re close to closing it but we’re talking more frequently. We’re working through it,” Bowman said. “It’s good dialogue. He wants to be here, we want him here. We have to try and make it work.”
- Tim Panaccio of CSNPhilly: The Flyers continue to move along without saying who there number one goalie is. Sergei Bobrovsky has played 30 games and Brian Boucher has played 19 games, but Boucher has played more in the past month or so. The Flyers will at some point have to name a #1, “We’re a long way from the playoffs and still trying to sort things out,” said goalie coach Jeff Reese. “As cliché as it sounds, we are going one game at a time.” Boucher is expected to start tonight and Bobrovsky could go tomorrow.
- Will DePaoli via twitter: There haven’t been any contract talks between the Penguins and Tyler Kennedy.
Wings could add Nabokov today … Kovalchuk the PKer … Cammalleri to IR … Starting goalies and roster notes
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on January 20th, 2011
- Darren Dreger via twitter: The Red Wings are talking to Evgeni Nabokov, would have to clear waivers if they sign him. Could be done today.
- Helene Elliott of the LA Times: Despite losing 9 of 11, Kings GM Dean Lombardi said “he is not considering dismissing Coach Terry Murray”
- Chris Vivlamore of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution: Evander Kane won’t be in the lineup tonight, has had a mid-body injury for the last month. Jim Slater and Fredrik Modin are also out. Zach Bogosian will be a healthy scratch for the 2nd consecutive game. Ondrej Pavelec will be in net. Lines at practice; Ladd-Peverley-Bergfors, Cormier-Little-Stewart, Boulton-Burmistrov-Thorburn, Dawes-Stapleton-Antropov.
- Rich Chere via twitter: Ilya Kovalchuk approached Lemaire about killing penalties, and has been used in that role the last 2 games. “Lemaire said Kovalchuk wants to improve as a player and concentrate on defense.”
- Katie Strang via twitter: According to Isles coach Jack Capuano, Kyle Okposo will be on a line with Frans Nielsen and Michael Grabner.
- Katie Strang via twitter: Matt Moulson said he was more amused than rattled by the trade rumors, realizes it’s part of the game.
- Chris Stevenson via twitter: Possible Canadiens lines for tonight; Kostitsyn-Plekanec-Eller; Pacioretty-Gomez-Gionta; Pouliot-Desharnais-Darche; Pyatt-Engqvist-Moen.
- Chris Stevenson via twitter: The Canadiens have put Mike Cammalleri on IR. Jeff Halpern and Max Pacioretty are day-to-day but on the ice.
- Allen Panzeri via twitter: Possible Senators lines; Michalek-Kelly-Alfredsson, Foligno-Fisher-Butler, Smith-Winchester-Neil, Ruutu-Regin-Shannon.
- Joe Haggerty via twitter: Looks like Tuukka Rask will be getting the start in net for the Bruins against the Sabres.
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Looks like Martin Brodeur will get the start.
- Will DePaoli via twitter: Brent Johnson in net for the Penguins tonight.
- Tim Panaccio via twitter: Sergei Bobrovsky in net for the Flyers.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Capitals GM McPhee expects the team to open in Russia next year, can decline to go to Europe.
- James Mirtle via twitter: The Lightning have assigned Mike Smith to the AHL on a conditioning stint.
- Tim Sassone via twitter: The Chicago Blackhawks have recalled Nick Leddy from the AHL.
Wellwood signs with Blues … Ruutu on the Block? Starting goalies, healthy scratches
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on January 11th, 2011
- David Pagnotta via twitter: Jarkko Ruutu could join Chris Phillips as Ottawa Senators that could be on the move.
- Frank Seravalli via twitter: Nik Zherdev will be a healthy scratch for the Flyers tonight.
- Anthony SanFilippo via twitter: Bobrovsky will start for the Flyers tonight.
- Tom Reed via twitter: Blue Jackets goalie Steve Mason (groin) is hoping to return on Friday, though he hasn’t gone down into the butterfly yet.
- Ian Mendes via twitter: Brian Elliot will start in net for the Senators. O’Brien and Carkner are in for Kovalev and Lee.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Kyle Wellwood signed with the St. Louis Blues, he’ll need to clear waivers.
- Katie Carrera via twitter: Michal Neuvirth will start for the Capitals tonight against the Panthers.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Petr Prucha signed with SKA St. Petersburg of the KHL for the remainder of the season.
- Will DePaoli via twitter: The Pittsburgh Penguins and Mark Letestu have begun preliminary talks.
HNIC Hotstove video … Downie back on Tuesday … Leafs get offer for Versteeg … Zidlicky’s shoulder injury serious
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Videos on January 2nd, 2011
- Tampa Tribune: The Tampa Bay Lightning could get winger Steve Downie back in the lineup on Tuesday. Downie has been out since Dec. 2nd with a high ankle injury, had been lobbying to get in the lineup last night. Goalie Mike Smith is also close to returning, he’s been out since Dec. 20th with a knee sprain. Randy Jones missed last night’s game (last 2 of 3) with an upper body injury.
- Mike Zeisberger of the Toronto Sun: Pierre LeBrun mentioned in last night’s Hockey Night in Canada Hotstove (video is at bottom of this post) that the Toronto Maple Leafs received an offer for Kris Versteeg.
- Michael Russo of the Star-Tribune: Marek Zidlicky’s shoulder injury may be more serious than originally hoped. GM Chuck Fletcher, “I’ll just say right now he’s going to be out for a while. We still have to speak with the doctors and look at the alternatives we have here. But it’s a significant injury.” Surgery could be an option.
- Harvey Fialkov of the Sun Sentinel: The Florida Panthers will continue to look at trading Steve Reinprecht if no one claims him off waivers by Monday. He’s in his 2nd year of a 3 year, $6.52 million deal.
- Eric Stephens via twitter: Ryan Getzlaf will see a specialist on Tuesday or Wednesday where a timetable for his return could be determined. Getzlaf has a nasal sinus fracture.
- Joanne Ireland of the Edmonton Journal: The Edmonton Oilers received some good news when it was revealed that Jordan Eberle’s ankle was not broken. When he’ll return is not known yet.
- Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: The Flyers are still carrying 3 goalies, as they don’t want to put Michael Leighton or Brian Boucher on waivers, and Sergei Bobrovsky has been playing really well despite playing only 3 games in the last 9. “It’s all about timing. When someone has a goalie go down, I’m sure our phone will start ringing,” said a Flyers official. “Three goalies just don’t work, long-term. It’s just not good.”
- Hockey Night in Canada Hotstove Video: Ron MacLean, Eric Francis, Glenn Healy & Pierre LeBrun
3 goalies in Philly … Injured Sens … Jackets interested in Del Zotto … Philly shopped Carcillo, Zherdev and vanRiemsdyk
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on December 20th, 2010
Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: Michael Leighton lead the Philadelphia Flyers to the Stanley Cup last year, now he finds himself as the #3 goalie in Philly. The Flyers don’t want to send Leighton or Brian Boucher to the AHL as they’d have to clear waivers and would likely be claimed. Sergei Bobrovsky is on a 2-way contract but has claimed the #1 job. The NHL Christmas trade freeze is in effect until Dec. 27th. Tampa could use a goalie, and Washington may be interested in a veteran.
Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Injuries are taking toll on some Ottawa Senators; Kovalev has a bad knee, Milan Michalek has had knee issues since being drafted, Daniel Alfredsson rarely practices, and Mike Fisher has a bad shoulder. The Columbus Blue Jackets in search of a offensive defenseman have inquired about NY Rangers Michael Del Zotto. They may have been offering former Rangers, Fedor Tyutin, but it would take more. Nikita Filatov? The Philadelphia Flyers have been trying to clear some cap space, including Daniel Carcillo, Nikolai Zherdev or James vanRiemsdyk. They want a 1st round draft pick plus another pick for James vanRiemsdyk.
Terry Frei of the Denver Post: Colorado Avalanche defenseman Kyle Quincey will undergo season ending shoulder surgery. Team doctor, “After physical and diagnostic tests, the decision has been made to repair his shoulder at this time.”
Dan O’Neill of the St. Louis Post Dispatch: The St. Louis Blues activated defenseman Roman Polak from IR yesterday and returned Ian Cole to the AHL. The Blues also announced that Dave Scatchard will be out 4-6 weeks with a knee injury.
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