Posts Tagged St. Louis Blues
Sunday morning notes: Canadiens, Sharks, Leafs, Kings, Wild, Blue Jackets, Red Wings, Blues and Blackhawks
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on March 18th, 2012
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Whoever is the GM of the Canadiens this summer will be in charge of re-signing RFA goalie Carey Price. He could be getting a deal in the $5.5 million to $6 million range. Senators Erik Karlsson is also a RFA and could get a deal in the $5.5 to $7 million range. Predators Shea Weber is also a RFA this year. Pierre McGuire is a name to keep an eye on as candidate for the Canadiens GM job if it opens up. Garrioch wonders if the Sharks would trade one of Joe Thornton of Patrick Marleau if they miss the playoffs. Many wonder if Leafs Joffrey Lupul and Phil Kessel will thrive under new coach Randy Carlyle. Some people think Zach Parise could land in LA on July 1st, but with Lombardi possibly panicing and making the Carter for Johnson deal, it may have lessened their chances. The Wild have emerged as the favorites. Garrioch wonders if the Leafs would take a shot at Roberto Luongo this summer. Apparently if Scott Howson is still the GM of the Blue Jackets, he plans on drafting Filip Forsberg with the #1 pick ahead of Nail Yakupov.
- Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun: One league executive on the Blue Jackets if they win the draft lottery,
“They can’t pick a Russian so they can’t use the pick,” … “They’ll have to trade it.”
Along with trading Rick Nash, their options are:
1) They could keep the pick and not choose Yakupov, which would be counter-productive; 2) They could flip picks with another team, trading the first choice for another early choice, and getting an asset as well; 3) They could trade the pick to the highest bidder and begin rebuilding their team.
If Ducks college prospect Justin Schultz becomes a free agent, they Leafs will likely chase him again. They were interested in him when talking with the Ducks about Francois Beauchemin.
- Gregg Krupa of the Detroit News: Red Wings forward Johan Franzen is out indefinitely with a bad back. Dan Cleary has also been dealing with pain in his knee since Dec. 1st, and will need to have surgery again at some point. Defenseman Jonathan Ericsson’s wrist is healing quick, but he’s still scheduled to return late this month. Joey MacDonald will have an MRI on his back when he gets back to Detroit.
- Derrick Goold of St. Louis Post Dispatch: Blues coach Ken Hitchcock hass told Jason Arnott to take a week off.
“When I watched him play (last week), I saw a guy who was protecting himself on the ice and to me he was going out of the way to get out of the way,” Hitchcock said Saturday. “I felt like there was going to be a further injury. I could see how banged up he was. … We needed to get a better player on the ice.”
Hitchcock isn’t sure if Andy McDonald will join the team on their road trip.
- Kent Youngblood of the Star Tribune: Wild Mikko Koivu has been practicing the last couple days and is close to returning. “He is getting very close,” Yeo said. “But again, after talking with the doctors, we all felt it was best to hold him off for a couple more games.”
- Tracey Myers of CSNChicago: Blackhawks forward Jonathan Toews hasn’t skated in 4 days. Coach Joel Quenneville,
“The process, I’m sure in his mind, is not a fun thing to be dealing with. You want to be optimistic; there was that stretch there where he was getting close. There’s hope, and that’re we’re at.s whe”
- Kirk Penton of the Winnipeg Sun: Jets defenseman Mark Stuart was fined $2,500 for a late hit on Capitals Marcus Johansson on Friday.
Afternoon notes involving: Radulov, Perry, Sbisa, MacDonald, Markov, Kaberle, Sekera, and Starting goalies
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Starting Goalies on March 16th, 2012
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Alexander Radulov’s agent tells @plysenkov that he’s “not expecting any news today or even tomorrow.” Salavat is wanting Radulov to buyout is his deal. Salavat will somehow keep his rights if Radulov buys himself out. Radulov would have to pay Salavat 2/3 of his deal if he wants to return to Nashville now. KHL contract numbers are not required to be disclosed to public.
- Curtis Zupke via twitter: Ducks Corey Perry and Luca Sbisa both said they will be game-time decisions.
- Norm Sanders via twitter: Blues Andy MacDonald will be re-evaluated in 2 weeks.
- Brent Wallace via twitter: Andrei Markov is out with an upper-body injury.
- Brent Wallace via twitter: Tomas Kaberle is out with an upper-body injury.
- Mike Harrington via twitter: Sabres Andrej Sekera might play tomorrow. Nathan Gerbe traveled with the team, but his status is unknown.
- Dan Tencer via twitter: Devan Dubnyk will start in net for the Oilers tonight.
- Frozen Royalty via twitter: Jonathan Quick will start in net for the Kings tonight.
- Stephen Whyno via twitter: Tomas Vokoun will start in net for the Capitals.
- Mike Heika via twitter: Kari Lehtonen will start in net for the Stars.
- Chip Alexander via twitter: Brian Boucher will start in net for the Hurricanes against the Wild.
Suter talks Radulov … Leafs inclined to keep 1st … Toews’ concussion … Lidstrom out a week … Wild injury update … MacDonald hurts shoulder
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Entry Draft, NHL Injuries, NHL News on March 16th, 2012
- Josh Cooper of the Tennessean: Predators defesneman Ryan Suter on the possible return of Alexander Radulov.
“It takes away from the guys we have on the team when we talk about other guys coming in, and guys who have been here all year and worked hard all year,” defenseman Ryan Suter said. “It’s going to be a fine line we’re going to have to walk if he does come back.”
- James Mirtle of the Globe and Mail: Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke on their 1st round pick:
“[We’re] inclined to keep the pick,” Burke said, “but listening [to offers] already.”
- Adam Jahns of the Chicago Sun-Times: Blackhawks coach Joel Quenneville used the word “setback” when talking about Jonathan Toews’ concussion. Toews had skated for 4 straight days, rested for 2, skated Wednesday and took yesterday off.
“Whether it’s a setback or it’s part of the process, that’s what we’re dealing with,” Quenneville said. “It’s a concern. You miss a guy like that.”
- Gregg Krupa of the Detroit News: Red Wings defenseman Nicklas Lidstrom will be out for at least another week. Pavel Datsyuk is still waiting to test his knee after having arthroscopic surgery 24 days ago.
- Kent Youngblood of the Star Tribune: Wild center Mikko Koivu has been cleared for contact and practiced yesterday without a no-contact jersey for the first time. Koivu has been out for the last 13 games games with a shoulder injury. He’ll practice again today, and they’ll determine then when he’ll return. There is a chance he’ll return on Saturday against the Hurricanes. Wild goalie Niklas Backstrom took the full practice yesterday. “He looked really good,” Yeo said. “If he got sore or tired, he was told to back off and to give it a rest. But he didn’t do that, which is obviously a good sign.” They’ll make a decision after practice on both Josh Harding and Backstrom. If both are 100%, Matt Hackett will be sent back to Houston. Defenseman Justin Falk, out with a lower body injury, is close to returning to practice.
- Josh Cooper via twitter: Predators Paul Gaustad is likely out tomorrow against the Kings. Coach Barry Trotz said it’s “just a little upper body injury.”
- Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post Dispatch: Blues forward Andy MacDonald injured his right shoulder last night and will be evaluated today. He was hit by Tuomo Ruutu and hit the boards awkwardly.
Injury notes for Sabres, Canadiens, Flyers, Sharks, Blues and Stars … Video of hybrid icing rule that GMs are discussing
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Videos on March 12th, 2012
- Mike Harrington via twitter: Tomas Vanek and Patrick Kaleta are back in. Matt Ellis has a knee injury, not sure if season ending. Andrej Sekera has pneumonia and it’s getting worse.
- Dave Stubbs via twitter: Canadiens David Desharnais is a game-time decision according to Pat Hickey.
- Tim Panaccio via twitter: Flyers forward Jakub Voracek hopes to play tomorrow. Defenseman Pavel Kubina on his injury: “hoping its not serious and just a few days more.”
- David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News: Sharks forward Martin Havlat could return to the lineup within the next week.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: The Blues have activated Jamie Langenbrunner off the IR and assigned TJ Hensick back to the AHL.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: In addition to Vladimir Tarasenko’s KHL contract, he’s getting a special “stipend” that equals NHL entry level contract.
- Chicago Blackhawks on NHL.com: The Blackhawks have signed Daniel Carcillo to a 2 year contract extension.
- David Alter via twitter: Maple Leafs lines: Connolly-Bozak-Kessel, MacArthur-Grabovski-Kulemin, Ashton-Steckel-Crabb, Frattin-Lombardi-Armstrong-Rosehill.
- Mark Stepneski via twitter: Stars defenseman Sheldon Souray is doubtful for tomorrow.
- Mark Stepneski via twitter: Kari Lehtonen will start in net for the Stars tomorrow.
- Link to the video was posted by Elliotte Friedman describing the hybrid icing rule that GMs are discussing
Morning notes on Radulov, Howard, Morrow, injured Blues and Green’s 3 game suspension
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Suspensions, NHL Videos on March 10th, 2012
Update: Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Chesnokov is checking a report that Radulov is set to join the Predators in the next couple days. He’s cautious with the outlet as it’s coming from an outside agent who has players on the same team (not Radulov’s agent).
- Josh Cooper of the Tennessean: Alexander Radulov’s KHL team was eliminated from the playoffs, but as of yesterday afternoon, there was “no change in his status” according to his agent. There is the possibility that Radulov could return to the Predators this year.
- Bill Roose of the DetroitRedWings.com: Red Wings goalie Jimmy Howard plans take part in their morning skate today in Nashville, and could return to the lineup on Tuesday in LA.
“I feel a lot better. It’s getting better every single day,” he said. “Skated yesterday, skated today, took some shots. Hopefully, tomorrow, I’ll share a net. Then practice Monday in L.A.
“We just want to take all the precautions and make sure everything is healed up, with it being so close to playoffs.”
- Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post Dispatch: Several of the Blues injured players (Kent Huskins, Jamie Langenbrunner, Kris Russell, Matt D’Agostini and Alex Steen) are expected to return to their lineup sometime next week. Likely candidates to return are Huskins, Russell and Langenbrunner. D’Agostini and Steen don’t appear to be close to returning.
- Dallas Stars via twitter: Stars forward Brenden Morrow has been activated from the IR.
- Capitals Mike Green was suspended for 3 games
Fantasy Hockey notes: Duchene, Tyutin, Toews, Dubinsky, Anderson, Morrow, Nyquist, Ponikarovsky and starting goalies
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Starting Goalies on March 8th, 2012
- Adrian Dater via twitter: Matt Duchene will be out 3-4 weeks with an ankle injury, surgery not needed.
- Bill Rabinowitz via twitter: Blue Jackets defenseman Fedor Tyutin has a broken hand and is likely done for the year.
- Adam Jahns via twitter: Blackhawks center Jonathan Toews skated on his own today.
- Steve Zipay via twitter: Rangers forward Brandon Dubinsky is out tonight.
- Ian Mendes via twitter: Senators goalie Craig Anderson was on the ice before the Sens practice this morning. He was able to carry a goal stick.
- Adam Jahns via twitter: Blackhawks defenseman Niklas Hjalmarsson is “hopeful” for tomorrow night.
- Mark Stepneski via twitter: Brenden Morrow is skating today, but not expected to play tonight.
- Helene St. James via twitter: The Red Wings called forward Gustav Nyquist.
- Rich Chere via twitter: Alexei Ponikarovsky will be in the lineup tonight.
- Mike Heika via twitter: Stars lines: Eriksson-Ribeiro-Ryder. Ott-Benn-Burish. Nystrom-Fiddler-Dvorak. Garbutt-Wandell-Vincour. vs. Sharks.
- Katie Strang via twitter: Evgeni Nabokov will start in net for the Islanders against Martin Brodeur and the Devils.
- Mark Stepneski via twitter: Kari Lehtonen will start in net for the Stars.
- George Richards via twitter: Jose Theodore will start in net for the Panthers.
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: Martin Biron will start in net for the Rangers against the Sens.
- Stephen Whyno via twitter: Tomas Vokoun will start in net for the Capitals tonight.
- Eric Stephens via twitter: Jonas Hiller will start in net for the Ducks against Jaroslav Halak and the Blues.
- Chris Kuc via twitter: Ray Emery will start in net for Blackhawks.
MLSE has faith in Brian Burke … Injury notes on Parse, Gagne, Backstrom, Clutterbuck, Palmieri, Letang, D’Agostini and Langenbrunner … Ott talks trade rumors
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News on March 3rd, 2012
Maple Leafs – Brian Burke Press Conference at 10:00 AM – Ron Wilson firing and hiring of Randy Carlyle.
- Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun: MLSE has faith in Brian Burke:
“Obviously the team is struggling,” Tom Anselmi, executive vice-president and COO for Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, said in a Thursday e-mail to the Toronto Sun. “It’s been disappointing for our fans, but it’s not over yet. We have faith in Brian and his people to get us back on track.”
- Rich Hammond of the LA Kings Insider: Kings Scott Parse skated for the first time yesterday since he had hip surgery early this season. It’s still unlikely that he’ll play this season. Simon Gagne (concussion) is skating as well, but it’s still unknown when he’ll return to full-practice.
- Minnesota Wild via twitter: Wild goalie Niklas Backstrom will be out 2 to 4 weeks with a groin strain.
- Michael Russo of the Star Tribune: The Wild lost Cal Clutterbuck and Nick Palmieri last night to upper-body injuries. The extent of the injuries are not known yet.
- Josh Yohe of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: Kris Letang has not been diagnosed with a concussion, though it remains possible.
“He’s got symptoms — not dramatic at this point,” Bylsma said. “But certainly (he’s) going to get home and get evaluated by our doctors.”
- Andy Strickland of True Hockey: Blues forward Matt D’Agostini (concussion) could start skating next week. Jamie Langenbrunner is still in a walking boot, and is at least 2 weeks away.
- Dallas Morning News: Steve Ott on all the trade talk that surrounded him leading up to the trade deadline:
“For sure, I would be lying if I said it didn’t bother me. 12 years in the Dallas area that I’ve been in, my daughter is a Texan and I can go down the list on how I feel about the Dallas area being my home. Anytime you talk about uplifting yourself from a community that really you enjoy, it’s tough. I was thinking about it for a month and a half when I started hearing stuff and talking to people about it, but the professional side is you go out there and work as hard as you can and you continue to take care of the things you can control, and that’s kind of how I approached the whole situation. Obviously, Monday was a difficult day because I didn’t know where I stood until 2:05 when the deadline came in and you find out where you’re supposed to be. I had a couple of cocktails and. some Bud Light to relax. I had trade center on the whole night and tried not to pull my hair out or bite my nails off. I made it pretty clear that I wanted to be a Dallas Star and continue to be a Dallas Star.”
Wings couldn’t find fit … Caps unsure on Backstrom … Wild may re-sign Harding … No offers for Allen or Spacek … Toews may have concussion
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 28th, 2012
- Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: The Red Wings were looking for a forward yesterday, but they couldn’t find a fit. Prices were high.
“Some teams are bigger,” Holland said. “They don’t have our skill. Let’s play. I don’t know that there was a move today that we could have made that would have gotten us bigger. The bottom line is, if you are going on a long playoff run, the top half of your roster for the most part has got to be healthy. You can have the odd injury. Part of it is matchup, part of it is luck.”
- Stephen Whyno via twitter: Capitals GM George McPhee when asked if Niklas Backstrom will return this year: “I don’t know. Hope so, but we don’t know.”
- Michael Russo via twitter: Wild GM Chuck Fletcher said he hasn’t ruled out re-signing goalie Josh Harding.
- John Shannon via twitter: The Panthers, Blues, and Coyotes, who are all in the hunt, weren’t able to make moves yesterday due to financial reasons.
- Chip Alexander via twitter: Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford said there wasn’t any offers for either Bryan Allen or Jaroslav Spacek. Teams called to see what it would take, but no offers.
- Dan Rosen of NHL.com: 5 winners from yesterday: Predators, Canucks, Sabres, Bruins and Lightning.
- Brian Hedger via twitter: Hedger thinks that Blackhawks Jonathan Toews’ injury is a concussion.
- Craig Custance of ESPN: Custance looks at 5 moves that didn’t yesterday that will be getting interest in the offseason: Rick Nash, Cory Schneider, Ryan Suter, Alexander Semin and the Ducks (things may change in the summer for the Ducks. GM Murray is giving this group a chance to get back in it.)
Burke thinking new trade deadline for Leafs … Flyers fine with no moves … Blues hand-cuffed … Lidstrom questionable for tonight
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 28th, 2012
- Kevin McGran of the Toronto Star: Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke is thinking about having his own personal trade deadline date, to make it easier on his players.
“It’s to the point where I’m debating doing the same thing I do at Christmas, starting our own trade freeze 10 days before, that’s how distracting it is,” said Burke. “Clarke MacArthur has been traded 10 times. (Mikhail) Grabovski’s been traded 12 times. (Nikolai) Kulemin has been traded. Luke Schenn has been traded 50 times. I think it’s remarkable the players keep their focus.”
“I think the trade deadline is hard on players, but I think it’s murder on players in Toronto,” said Burke. “We’re just going to do this 10 days earlier so our players can relax. I don’t know if that’s the right answer because I don’t want to tie my hands if there’s some (trade) we can do. This is crazy here.”
- Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: Flyers GM Paul Holmgren:
“There wasn’t anything that was pitched to us that . . . would have made us as good a team as what’s on the board right now,” general manager Paul Holmgren said in a conference call from the team’s training facility in Voorhees. “We just felt more comfortable with our team the way it is, and quite frankly, since we’ve added the two defensemen, we’ve all felt that way.”
- Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: The Blues were not able to make any “non-lateral moves” before the deadline yesterday due to their ownership situation. Blues GM Doug Armstrong was only allowed to make dollar-for-dollar moves because their budget is restricted until the sale of the team is complete.
“We were trying to see what type of depth we could add to our group and there wasn’t a proper fit there,” Armstrong said. “I went in not expecting a lot of transactions, and at the end of the day, it didn’t seem like we were involved in much.”
- Ted Kulfan of the Detroit News: The Red Wings called up highly touted Brendan Smith. Nicklas Lidstrom is questionable tonight with a sore ankle, and Kyle Quincey is out with a sore groin issue. Johan Franzen practiced on the 3rd line yesterday, but it’s not known if he’ll remain there for tonight.
Nash asked for a trade … Leafs offered 1sts for 4 players … Lupul not part of Nash talks … Wings were in on Gaustad
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 27th, 2012
- Shawn Mitchell via twitter: Blue Jackets GM Scott Howson said that Rick Nash approached him about a trade.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: The Maple Leafs have offers of 1st round picks for Luke Schenn, Nikolai Kulemin, Clarke MacArthur, and Mikhail Grabovski.
- Jonas Siegel via twitter: Burke expects to have Mikhail Grabovski signed to an extension by the end of the season.
- David Pagnotta via twitter: Pagnotta was told that Lupul was never part of the Rick Nash discussions.
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: The Red Wings inquired about Paul Gaustad but didn’t have a 1st round pick.
- Curtis Zupka via twitter: Ducks GM Murray on Selanne: “He was going to have to come to me and make me do something. It was never going to come to that.”
- Andy Strickland via twitter: “The Blues financial situation is bad..they’re not bleeding, they’re hemorrhaging. It’s been widely ignored and today is another example”
- Randy Sportak via twitter: Flames GM Jay Feaster: “We still believe we’re a team that can make the playoffs.”
- Dennis Bernstein via twitter: Sharks Logan Couture is questionable for tomorrow.
Rick Nash Trade Rumors
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 26th, 2012
I’ll continue to add Rick Nash trade rumors to this post, bumping old ones to a jump page when it gets to long. Here are links to 2 previous entries HC Rick Nash Trade Tracker Videos and Rumors, and Blue Jackets put Rick Nash on the trade market.
Feb. 26th 8:15 PM
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Obviously possible Rick Nash could move by tomorrow but it were close in any way do you think CBJ would’ve played him today?”
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Teams that have the most interest in Nash don’t think he’ll be moved and are looking at other players.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: The Rangers weren’t willing to pay the price for Nash prior to today, and today the Blue Jackets asked for more than they initially asked for. Can’t really blame the Rangers for not wanting to blow up their team to make a Nash deal.
- Spector’s Hockey via twitter: Sportsnet Marty McSorley said that latest word is the Rangers are out on Nash.
11:15 AM
- David Boclair of the Nashville City Paper: The Predators have made an offer Nash. It’s unlikely the Blue Jackets would want to trade within their division. The Preds offer could include: Colin Wilson, Ryan Ellis or Jonathan Blum and multiple picks and/or prospects
- Darren Dreger via twitter: The Blue Jackets haven’t spoken with the Maple Leafs in days. Leafs will keep trying, but Gardiner remains untouchable.
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: Belief before the Maple Leafs loss to the Capitals that the Leafs interest in Nash was minimal, and they they were driving up the price for the Rangers.
- Sam Carchidi via twitter: The Flyers are still talking with Blue Jackets about Nash, but nothing serious has developed. The Jackets want several of the Flyers young players.
9:00 AM
- The Fourth Period: The Rangers may include Carl Hagelin (Rangers want Stepan) to go along with Brandon Dubinsky, Chris Kreider and a 1st round pick. The Blue Jackets are asking the Maple Leafs for Jake Gardiner, Joe Colborne, Matt Frattin and a 1st round pick.
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: The Leafs, Rangers, and Sharks have offers in on Rick Nash, and have all said the offer could be better in the summer. The Rangers and Leafs are being aggressive as they have more parts to offer than the Sharks.
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: The Sharks are still interested in Nash, but could probably make a better offer in the offseason. The Maple Leafs and Rangers are still in.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Blue Jackets GM Scott Howson should go after Derek Stepan over Brandon Dubinsky. Howson wants Chris Kreider, the Rangers best prospect. He also wants either Ryan McDonagh or Michael Del Zotto, but McDonagh isn’t going anywhere. Dylan McIlray or Tim Erixon are also options. After the Carter deal, defense is not a top priority for Howson. He could use some 1st round picks to take a run at Canucks Cory Schneider this offseason. They already have their own and the Kings.
Feb. 25th 9:50 PM:
- Spector’s Hockey via twitter: Elliotte Friedman suggested on the Hotstove that the Blue Jackets might not move Nash by Monday. They’ve shifted their focus to forwards for Nash.
- Chris Botta via twitter: Botta can see the Rangers best offer for Nash as Brandon Dubinsky, Tim Erixon, a 2012 1st round pick and a conditional pick based on Rangers success the next 2 years.
- Todd Cordell via twitter: Bob McKenzie reported that the Canucks are jumping into the trade market, with Nash a possibility.
4:40 PM
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Rick Nash’s agent spoke with TSN and said the following: “We’re hopeful a deal can get done prior to the trade deadline that is fair and equitable for the Blue Jackets…” .. “However, if a deal is not reached, then the list of acceptable teams will not change at a later date.”
2:05 PM
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: Rangers remain firm that they aren’t going to trade Michael Del Zotto or Ryan McDonagh in a deal with Columbus for Nash.
- David Pagnotta via twitter: Hearing that the Blue Jackets want Derek Stepan badly, but might settle for Carl Hagelin. Brandon Dubinsky, Chris Kreider, Stepan or Hagelin, and a pick (may not be a 1st). There could be more coming from the Blue Jackets. May boil today to Stepan or Hagelin.
9:00 AM
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: “No guarantees #CBJ captain Rick Nash is traded by Monday’s deadline, but might be best for all parties to have a quick ending to this.” …”#CBJ have set the bar very high and are waiting for other teams to meet their requirements. So far, none of them have done so.” … “#CBJ approach is that they don’t have to trade Nash, but several possible suitors and the Nash camp are getting impatient w the process.” … “Might be best if #CBJ fans come to terms with the fact that Nash is likely going to be traded. Might not happen at deadline, but …” … “… chances of Nash being with the Blue Jackets at the start of next season are slim.”
Afternoon rumors involving: Grabovski, Senators, Hurricanes, Bruins, Oduya, Harding, Steen and Ducks
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 26th, 2012
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Mikhail Grabovski’s agent: “We understand their position and I believe that they understand our position, we are more than fair.” … “Mikhail wants to play for the Leafs for many years & win the Stanley Cup with them and I absolutely agree with him. “
- Howard Berger via twitter: Leafs source: “Tons of chatter, but nothing close to worthwhile.”
- Ian Mendes via twitter: Senators GM Bryan Murray when asked about adding a depth forward, “we don’t have an immediate target.”
- Chip Alexander via twitter: Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford said it’s hard to predict how active they’ll be over the next 24 hours. Said there is the possibility of a “hockey trade.” Added, “It’s hard to find players now, at the deadline or in the offseason.”
- Pierre LeBrun via twitter: The Bruins are looking for a forward and a defenseman. They have interest in Avalanche forwards Daniel Winnik, T.J. Galiardi and David Jones. Jets defenseman Johnny Oduya is getting interest, but they are back in the playoff race. With the Blues getting a 2nd round pick for Ben Bishop, the Wild may do better for Josh Harding.
- Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: Blues Alex Steen had been practicing, but shut it down last week. Skating led to vision problems. He’ll be heading to California for at least 2 weeks to receive treatment in a hyperbaric chamber, similar to what Andy McDonald and Paul Kariya did.
- Lisa Dillman of the LA Times: The Ducks may have a quiet trade deadline.
Leafs and Panthers interested in Stastny … Burke quotes … Lightning called about Bishop … Would take more than Raymond for Ott
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 26th, 2012
- The Fouth Period: Several teams have inquired about Avalanche center Paul Stastny, with the Maple Leafs and Panthers showing the most interest. Greg Sherman and Brian Burke have spoken frequently, and the Avalanche have scouted the Leafs several times this month. The Avs could be looking to move defenseman Ryan O’Bryrne.
- Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun: Brian Burke:
“We’ve spent three years putting together some depth here,” Burke told Hockey Night In Canada a half hour before the Leafs laid an egg against Washington. “We’re not going to blow it all up to try to squeak in the eighth spot.”
“Teams that think they’re close and are trying to load up, teams that are banged up and trying to patch holes, teams that have under-achieved … we don’t fall in any of those categories. So from my perspective, we’re in the hunt. If we can add a piece that gives up a better shot at getting in the playoffs, we’re going to do it.”
Burke on Mikhail Grabovski:
“I don’t intent to move him at this time. That could change, but I see him as a guy that we wait until the end of the year and see if we can sign him then.”
- David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News: The health of some Sharks players will help determine if they make a move or not, mainly Martin Havlat and Douglas Murray.
- Damian Cristodero via twitter: Lightning GM Steve Yzerman spoke with the Blues about Ben Bishop, but he didn’t want to give up a 2nd round pick for him.
- Damian Cristodero via twitter: Yzerman on the trade deadline: “We’ve made our major moves here. As far as acquiring impact players, it’s more likely at the draft”
- Mark Spector via twitter: Stars source said there’s no chance they trade Steve Ott to the Canucks for just Mason Raymond.
Blues trade Ben Bishop to Ottawa
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Trades on February 26th, 2012
The St. Louis Blues have traded goalie Ben Bishop to the Ottawa Senators for a 2013 2nd round pick.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: The Senators signed him to a 1 year, 1-way contract.
- Darren Pang via twitter: Blues GM Doug Armstrong had talks with a few teams regarding Bishop, but wasn’t going to give him away from a mid round pick.
- Elliotte Friedman via twitter: “Bishop must play at least 30 minutes in 17 games, or he will be unrestricted.” (doesn’t matter now that he’s signed)
- Cory Pronman via twitter: On Bishop: “Huge man with limited in net mobility. Good technique and doesnt panic. Scouts see him as an Nhler. IMO he’s a backup.”
Sens closing in on Bishop … Paulsson could end up in Boston … ‘Hawks looking at D … Turris to have hearing
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on February 26th, 2012
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: Sources saying the Senators are closing in on a deal for Blues Ben Bishop. Andy Strickland via twitter: Both sides appear OK with the Senators speaking with Bishop before the trade, possibly a 1 year extension.
- Doug Maclean via twitter: Sammy Pahlsson could end up in Boston for playoff depth. Evgeni Nabokov could be available depending on his negotiations.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: The Blackhawks are looking for an experienced defenseman. Matt Carle and Sheldon Souray are names floating around.
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: Kyle Turris will have a disciplinary hearing at noon today.
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: Canadiens are listening to offers for Tomas Plekanec, but they want a hockey deal, player for player.
Ballard to LTIR … No deal for Grabovski … Waivers today … Boyce claimed on waivers … Russell has concussion … Scouting
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors, NHL Starting Goalies on February 25th, 2012
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: The Canucks put Keith Ballard on the LTIR, creating $4.2 million in cap space. Ott could be an option. Ballard has a concussion and is not close. He might be ready for the playoffs.
- Chris Johnston via twitter: Indications are that Mikhail Grabovski won’t be signing a contract extension with the Maple Leafs by Monday.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: On waivers today R. Russell and Clitsome (CBJ), Boulton (NJD), Staubitz (re-entry) (MIN), Kolanos (CGY).
- Brian Compton via twitter: The Islanders have waived Brian Rolston and recalled David Ullstrom.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: The Blue Jackets have claimed Darryl Boyce off waivers from the Maple Leafs.
- Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: The Blues have lost Kris Russell to concussion-like symptoms. Kent Huskins will take his spot, and Ian Cole was recalled. The might make a move for a defenseman, but have indicated they may be quiet, citing budget concerns.
- Chip Alexander via twitter: Hurricanes coach Kirk Muller is not worried about Cam Ward, could be in next game.
- Dave Molinari via twitter: Scouting the Penguins-Lightning game today: Stars, Kings and Lightning.
- Adrian Dater via twitter: Scouting the Blue Jackets game last night: Bruins, Flyers, Rangers, Devils, Sharks Penguins and Lightning.
- Roger Millions via twitter: Flames lines: Glencross Jokinen Iginla-Tanguay Cammalleri Comeau-Desbiens horak Jackman-Bouma Stajan Kostopoulos
- Jonas Siegel via twitter: James Reimer will start in net for the Leafs tonight.
State of the Dallas Stars: NHL Trade Deadline Edition
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 24th, 2012
Written by Kyle Logsdon of Clearing the Puck, and can be found on twitter at @KidLogs
With the trade deadline looming nearer every day, the focus in the hockey world inevitably turns to any and all trade rumors being spread out there. While many of these rumors begin and are propagated by those who have no real inside sources, occasionally well-known, respected reporters make statements that cause us to turn our heads. And, similar to last year, the Stars again find themselves at the heart of one of these rumors.
This year, there has been debate back and forth as to whether the 2011-2012 Dallas Stars are looking to be “buyers” or “sellers” at the trade deadline. I tend to agree with those who think the terms “buyer” and “seller” when referring to NHL trades is a misnomer, however the point being made with these titles is understood. The “buyer” is the team looking to add that final puzzle piece to a team looking to make a deep playoff run, while the “seller” is the team who would still love to make the playoffs this year, but has decided their focus should be on the future of franchise. GM Joe has previously stated that the Stars will be neither a seller nor a buyer this year, but rather simply said that the Stars would be “active” at the trade deadline, listening to all offers.
Bruins looking for impact player … Blues not shopping Stewart … Quincey speaks about Avs … Lecavalier out 3 weeks
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 24th, 2012
- James Murphy of ESPN: Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli may have changed his tune and could be after adding an impact player before the deadline. Nathan Horton’s concussion, Rich Peverley’s knee injury, and their lackluster play since January have all lead to this switch. They have $13.2 million in cap space that Chiarelli can add, but he may be hesitant to trade for a short-term rental as prices are currently “through the roof.” Players the Bruins could look at are forwards Ales Hemsky, Milan Hejduk, Kyle Okposo and defenseman Lubomir Visnovsky, Jaroslav Spacek and Johnny Oduya.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Strickland doesn’t think the Blues are shopping Chris Stewart, but you can assume his name as come up. AHL goalie, Ben Bishop, will come up in rumors, with the Lightning potentially interested. One source thought the Blues would eventually got Steve Downie for Bishop and a draft pick. Jets defenseman Ron Hainsey may be a fit for someone looking to bolster their blueline. He has a $4.5 million cap hit, but is only owed $3 million in salary next year. One Bruins source wondered if the Bruins would look at getting Michael Ryder back from the Stars. The Bruins will focus on re-signing Tuukka Rask. Sources are saying that the Canadiens won’t move Travis Moen. Contract extension talks haven’t begun yet though. Ryan Smyth will likely sign an extension with the Oilers.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Kyle Quincey after being traded to the Red Wings:
“Everyone is ready to get shipped out any day. There’s a lot of guys, their bags are packed beside the door, and they wouldn’t be unhappy to go – trust me. I know I had a big smile on my face, and all the guys were jealous. I think there’s a bunch of guys that were pissed off they weren’t in a package deal”
“I truly believe, if you have confidence in a player, then give it to them, show it to them,” Quincey said. “When there’s so much uncertainty if those guys are going to be there next year, it would be nice for guys to get extensions. But that’s their policy, and that’s what they do. Confidence, it comes and goes, and when it goes, it’s pretty tough to get it back.”
- Damian Cristodero of the Tampa Bay Times: Lightning center Vinny Lecavalier could be out for 3 weeks after an MRI revealed a fractured bone in a his right hand.
- Sam Carchidi via twitter: Sean Couturier is day-to-day with a lower body injury.
- Dennis Bernstein via twitter: The Kings are bringing up Slava Voynov after trading Jack Johnson.
- David Pagnotta via twitter: Scouting the Maple Leafs – Sharks game: 2 Winnipeg, Avalanche, Oilers, Blackhawks, Canucks, Penguins, Blues, Rangers, Coyotes, Lightning, Senators and Bruins.
Kings discussing Bernier and Brown … Teams in on Ott … Leafs have a bunch going on … Nabokov-Isles talking … Anderson cuts hand
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL Rumors on February 23rd, 2012
- Dennis Bernstein via twitter: Bob McKenzie said that Kings are in trade discussions involving Jonathan Bernier and Dustin Brown, though nothing is close.
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: There is plenty of talk involving Stars Steve Ott. Teams that are showing interest: Canucks, Leafs and Flyers, but the Stars want a significant piece back. Todd Cordell via twitter: McKenzie said on TSN 1050 that the Canucks are “big time in on Steve Ott.”
- Todd Cordell via twitter: Leafs GM Brian Burke on NHL Home Ice: “We’ve got a bunch of stuff going but nothing that feels imminent, no.”
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Islanders GM Garth Snow and Evgeni Nabokov’s agent, Don Meehan, spoke today and will meet again. Nothing imminent.
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: Senators goalie Craig Anderson cut his hand at home and is expected to miss a few games.
- Jesse Rogers via twitter: Scouting the Blackhawks – Stars: 2 Blues, Kings, Jets, Hurricanes and others.
More rumors and notes involving: Sharks, Kings, Sabres, Avs, Capitals, Oilers, Maple Leafs, Devils, Blackhawks, Stars and Flames
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on February 23rd, 2012
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Sources are saying the San Jose Sharks are looking into deals for Blue Jackets Rick Nash and Jeff Carter. Blue Jackets GM Scott Howson is still looking to get a 1st round pick, a good roster player, and the top prospect in that organization for Nash. For the Sharks the roster player may be Logan Couture or Joe Pavelski. Carter may cost a 1st round pick and to take on more salary with another player. A source said Nash could cost the Kings Jonathan Bernier or Jack Johnson, Tyler Toffoli and a 1st round pick. The Sabres could start dealing soon, but don’t expect to see Ryan Miller trade. Paul Gaustad and Derek Roy are getting interest. Teams are waiting to see if the Avalanche will become sellers, and if Milan Hejduk will becomes available. If the Capitals become sellers, Mike Knuble might become available, and could get interest from the Rangers, Bruins, Red Wings, and Blackhawks. Capitals defenseman Roman Hamrlik was a healthy scratch and may have interest from the Canucks and Blues. The Oilers and Ales Hemsky have held discussions on a multi-year deal. The Kings, Rangers, Bruins and Sharks may be interested in Hemsky.
- James Mirtle of the Globe and Mail: Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke on TSN Radio yesterday:
“I’m not sure that we’re not going to be in the market [for a goalie] before we’re done,” Burke said. “It’s something that we have to at least explore what the price tags are. The fact is we’re losing games because we’re not stopping the puck enough. … We’ve got to get our goaltenders to stop the puck.”
Burke made it clear that he’s looking for immediate help and not prospects. Mirtle lists potential goalies that may be available: Cory Schneider, Jonathan Bernier, Josh Harding, Evgeni Nabokov, Ben Bishop, Curtis Sanford, and Antero Niittymaki.
- Mark Everson of the NY Post: The Devils could use some help on the blueline due to Henrik Tallinder’s and Adam Larsson’s injuries. Travis Zajac’s injury may lead them to look at adding a center. The Devils may not have room in their ‘secret payroll budget’ to fit in Marek Zidlicky’s contract. Canadiens Chris Campoli could be an option. Since the Jets are back in the playoff hunt, Johnny Oduya is likely off the market. Bryan Allen, Jaroslav Spacek and Lubomir Vishnovsky would be expensive to get.
- Adam Jahns of the Chicago Sun-Times: Blackhawks Jonathan Toews’ has an upper-body injury and won’t play tonight. Coach Joel Quenneville said he’s day-to-day and they hope he can skate on Friday. Defenseman Niklas Hjalmarsson skated for the 4th straight day and could return tonight.
- Adam Jahns of the Chicago Sun-Times: Blackhawks GM Stan Bowman is still looking for a top 4 puck moving defenseman, and a veteran forward, preferably a center. He’s said he’d move picks and prospects, and has a tendency to look for players who are not just rentals. Stars Steve Ott and Mike Ribeiro may be available, but their cost could be high. Blackhawks Jimmy Hayes is said to interest teams. The Hawks were said to have interest in Kyle Quincey and Nicklas Grossman before they were dealt. The Leafs could be looking to move Cody Franson or Luke Schenn.
- Kevin McGran via twitter: Burke on TSN Radio “I’m not interested in just making the playoffs and getting my ass kicked. I want to have a parade.”
- Mark Stepneski via twitter: Richard Bachman will start in net tonight for the Stars. Defenseman Sheldon Souray will return, Jamie Benn is doubtful.
- John Down of the Calgary Herald: Flames winger Curtis Glencross and defenseman Derek Smith could return tonight.
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