Posts Tagged Tomas Vokoun
Arena proposal for Markham … Zajac skating … Ward sleeps in, pays price … Kovalchuk’s x-rays OK … Hecht returns … Montoya close
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News on November 23rd, 2011
- Mike Zeisberger of the Toronto Sun: There is a proposal for a 19,500 seat arena to be built in Markham, Ontario. Bauer chairman Graeme Roustan and real estate mogul Rudy Bratty are looking at building an entertainment/concert venue. The venue could sustain itself without an NHL team. It would be located just north of the 407 and west of Kennedy Road. The NHL doesn’t really want to relocate a team to the Toronto area at the moment. Quebec City would likely get a team first. There is another group that would like to build an arena in Vaughan, near the 407 and Hwy 27.
- Mike Morreale of NHL.com: Devils center Travis Zajac skated by himself yesterday and today and could be 2 weeks away from joining teammates. Lou Lamoriello:
“Travis has been released by the doctors and is in town and skated [Tuesday and Wednesday] and will continue to do that for the next week and a half to two weeks,” Lamoriello said. “If everything is on schedule as it has been, he’ll start practicing with the team in two weeks. Everything to this point has been exactly the way the doctors predicted it would be, and it feels good, but he’s certainly not there yet. It’ll take conditioning off and on the ice before he can return to practice.”
- Stephen Whyno via twitter: Capitals forward Joel Ward slept in yesterday, missing a team meeting. He won’t be in the lineup.
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Devils forward Ilya Kovalchuk went for x-rays in Florida on his right leg, “everything was OK” according to Kovalchuk.
- Kevin Paul Dupont via twitter: Jochen Hecht will make his season debut tonight for the Sabres. He’s been out all year with concussion symptoms.
- Katie Strang via twitter: Islanders coach Capuano confirmed that goalie Al Montoya is getting close to returning. Further update should be coming later today.
- Stephen Whyno via twitter: Tomas Vokoun will start in net for the Capitals. Shultz, Semin and Perreault are in. Ward and Erskine are out.
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Looks like Martin Brodeur will be net for the Devils tonight against the Blue Jackets.
Myers breaks wrist … Nash takes out Mason … Beleskey to waivers … Lines and starting goalies
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL Injuries, NHL News on November 21st, 2011
- Mike Harrington via twitter: Sabres defenseman Tyler Myers had surgery today on his broken wrist and will be out at least a month.
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: Blue Jackets goalie Steve Mason suffered a head injury at their morning sake. He was struck in the head with a Rick Nash shot.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: The Ducks have put Matt Beleskey on waivers.
- Katie Carrera via twitter: Capitals coach Bruce Boudreau on Jay Beagle: “Last week he had a little bit of a setback, so he had to sort of start a little bit over.”
- Mike Morreale via twitter: The Hurricanes have recalled Brett Sutter and reassigned Zach Boychuk and Zac Dalpe.
- Josh Yohe via twitter: Penguins lines and defensive pairings: Kunitz-Crosby-Dupuis; Sullivan-Malkin-Neal; Cooke-Staal-Kennedy; Adams-Park-Asham (I think); Letang-Orpik; Martin-Z; Nisky-Engo.
- 630ched.com: Oilers lines and defensive pairings: Ryan Smyth – Ryan Nugent-Hopkins – Jordan Eberle, Taylor Hall – Sam Gagner – Ales Hemsky, Anton Lander – Shawn Horcoff – Ryan Jones, Darcy Hordichuk – Eric Belanger – Lennart Petrell, Ladislav Smid – Tom Gilbert, Theo Peckham – Jeff Petry , Taylor Chorney – Colten Teubert.
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Devils lines: Parise-Henrique-Kovalchuk; Sykora-Elias-Zubrus; Tedenby-Carter-Clarkson; Pelley-Mills-Janssen; Extra: Palmieri.
- Arthur Staple via twitter: Anders Nilsson will make his 1st NHL start tonight for the Islanders. Niederreiter and Comeau will be scratched. Ullstrom and Okposo will be in.
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: Henrik Karlsson is expected to start tonight for the Flames against the Blue Jackets. Curtis Sanford will start in net for the Blue Jackets, Allen York will back him up.
- George Richards via twitter: Jose Theodore will start in net for the Panthers against Martin Brodeur and the Devils.
- Katie Carrera via twitter: Tomas Vokoun will start in net for the Capitals against the Coyotes.
- Mark Spector via twitter: Nikolai Khabibulin will start in net for the Oilers.
Kovalchuk a game-time decision … Huskins out 8 weeks … Connolly unlikely … Luongo not practicing … Starting goalies
Posted by Mark Easson in Fantasy Hockey News, NHL News, NHL Starting Goalies on November 15th, 2011
- Tom Gulitti via twitter: Devils coach Peter DeBoer originally said that Ilya Kovalchuk won’t play tonight. Rich Chere via twitter: Kovalchuk then said that he’ll take the warm-up and then make a decision. DeBoer then talked to Kovalchuk again and said that he’s a possibility for tonight.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Blues defenseman Kent Huskins is out for 8 weeks with a fractured foot.
- James Mirtle via twitter: Maple Leafs defenseman Cody Franson likely to get in the lineup on Thursday in Nashville.
- Jonas Siegel via twitter: Tyler Bozak continues to skate with the Phil Kessel and Joffrey Lupul, unlikely that Tim Connolly plays.
- Dan Tencer via twitter: Oilers lines: Hall-RNH-Eberle, Smyth-Horcoff-Hemsky, Lander-Belanger-Jones, Eager-Gagner-Petrell.
- Ben Kuzma via twitter: Canucks goalie Roberto Luongo isn’t practicing today. He stretched his groin on Sunday.
- Jonas Siegel via twitter: Looks like Ben Scrivens will start in net for the Maple Leafs.
- Lou Korac via twitter: Jimmy Howard will start in net for the Red Wings.
- Jeremy Rutherford via twitter: Brian Elliott will start in net for the Blues.
- Katie Carrera via twitter: Tomas Vokoun will start in net for the Capitals in Nashville.
- Aaron Portzline via twitter: Looks like Niklas Backstrom will start in net for the Wild against the Blue Jackets.
- Steve Zipay via twitter: Henrik Lundqvist will start in net for the Rangers against the Islanders.
- Katie Strang via twitter: Evgeni Nabokov will start in net for the Islanders, Al Montoya will be the backup.
Starting goalies for Panthers, Capitals, Senators, Oilers and Ducks … Lines at practice for Leafs and Canucks
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News on October 17th, 2011
- George Richards via twitter: Jose Theodore will be in net for the Panthers against the Lightning. George Richards via twitter: Jacob Markstrom may get his 1st NHL start tomorrow for the Panthers against Tomas Vokoun and the Capitals.
- Edmonton Oilers via twitter: Nikolai Khabibulin will start in net for the Oilers against the Predators.
- Eric Stephens via twitter: Dan Ellis will get his first start for the Ducks tonight.
- Brent Wallace via twitter: Alex Auld will be in net for the Senators tomorrow against the Flyers.
- Dan Murphy via twitter: Canucks lines at practice: Twins-Burrows Higgins-Kesler-Hodgson Hansen-Malhotra-Samuelsson Volpatti-Lapierre-Weise. Defensive pairings: Ballard-Bieksa Alberts-Salo Hamhuis-Edler.
- Jonas Siegel via twitter: Lines at Maple Leafs practice this morning: MacArthur-Grabovski-Kulemin. Lupul-Bozak-Kessel. Frattin-Lombardi-Armstrong. Brown-Steckel-Dupuis. David Alter via twitter: Defensive pairing at Leafs practice: Phaneuf-Gunnarsson, Liles-Schenn, Franson-Komisarek
- Jesse Spector via twitter: The Blackhawks assign Ben Smith to the AHL.
- Dan Murphy via twitter: Canucks assign defenseman Chris Tanev to the AHL.
Afternoon notes on Smid, Nystrom, Cumiskey, Callahan, Vokoun, Campoli, Senators, Red Wings and Blues
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on October 7th, 2011
- Edmonton Oilers via twitter: Oilers defenseman Ladislav Smid has been cleared for contact. Ben Eager is skating but is still wearing a no-contact jersey. Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Smid wants to play in Sunday’s season opener, but the team may tell him it’s okay not to rush back.
“I told Ladi if you miss Game 1 of 82, I’m OK with that,” said Oilers head coach Tom Renney.
“I don’t want something to become chronic. Sometimes you have to protect the players from themselves because they are so anxious to get playing. I appreciate his passion and character. He’ll play a lot. That’s all he needs to know at this time.”
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Wild’s Eric Nystrom clears waivers. The Avalanche put Kyle Cumiskey on waivers. The Canadiens have put Joe Callahan on waivers with the purpose of signing him to a contract. Michael Russo via twitter: A Nystrom trade is possible, he’ll be assigned to the AHL.
- Katie Carrera via twitter: Capitals goalie Tomas Vokoun says that he won’t be starting on Saturday against the Hurricanes, but expects to start on Monday against the Lightning.
- Ian Mendes via twitter: Lines from Senators practice: Michalek-Spezza-Filatov. Greening-Zibanejad-Alfredsson. Foligno-Da Costa-Neil. Condra-Smith-Butler.
- Brent Wallace via twitter: Lines from Detroit: Hudler-Datsyuk-Cleary; Filppula-Zetterberg-Franzen; Abdelkader-Helm-Bertuzzi; Miller-Emmerton-Holmstrom.
- Darren Dreger via twitter: Michael Hulsizer may have reached out to IceEdge seeking investment in the purchase of the St. Louis Blues.
- Renaud Lavoie via twitter: Canadiens defenseman Chris Campoli suffered a hamstring injury last night against the Leafs. He’ll have more tests today but could be shorter than first thought.
KHL’s Lokomotiv plane crashes … Bolland considers himself lucky … Vokoun had similar offer from the Red Wings … Alfredsson skating … Boogaard’s battle
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on September 7th, 2011
12:29 pm:
- Slava Malamud via twitter: Reports are that Alexander Galimov may still be alive. (I’m not going to make any more notes on him for the time being, many mixed reports)
11:51 am:
- Sean Leahy via twitter: KHL Statement:
“We are only beginning to understand the impact of this tragedy affecting the Lokomotiv Yaroslavl club and the international hockey community. First and foremost, our condolences go out to the families and friends of the players, coaches and staff lost in today’s tragedy. “We know that there are many in the KHL family who will be grieving with us. As the investigation of this tragedy progresses we will work closely with investigators, government officials, club executives and the Yaroslavl community. We are working to find an appropriate way to honor this club and begin the healing process from the deep loss so many of us feel today. “We are aware that many of you have questions. This tragedy remains our primary focus. We ask for patience as we find an appropriate way to proceed with the 2011/2012 season. We will continue to communicate our plans as they take shape.”
- Slava Malamud via twitter: Viktor Tikhonov suggests that every KHL team send at least one player to Lokomotiv so that the team can continue this season.
- BD Gallof via twitter: Gallof provided a link to a wikipedia page about the crash that is being updated.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Reports coming in that Alexander Galimov, who originally survived the crash, has passed away.
10:48 am:
- Slava Malamud via twitter: Belarusian news agencies are saying that Ruslan Salei was on the plane.
10:30 am:
- Genadi Boguslavski via twitter: 45 people including crew may have been on board. The only player to survive may be Alexander Galimov.
- Slava Malamud via twitter: It’s being reported that Ruslan Salei was awating the team in Minsk.
- Slava Malamud via twitter: There is at least one report that Salei was on the plane.
9:30 am:
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: A charter plane carrying Lokomotiv of the KHL has crashed. Reports are that there were 37 people on board. The number of people that died is unconfirmed (reports saying 36 died). Former NHLers on the team include Vasyunov, Rachunek, Demitra, Salei, Skrastins. Brad McCrimmon was the teams head coach. A link to Lokomotiv’s roster or here if the site is down.. Genadi Boguslavski via twitter: “Officials of Russia Aviation confirm 34 dies in plane crash.”
- Tim Sassone of the Daily Herald: Blackhawks forward Dave Bolland considers himself lucky with the concussion he sustained last March. He missed the last 14 regular season games and the first 3 of the playoffs. He’ll be ready to go for training camp.
“It does get scary. If you look at Sidney Crosby right now, he’s still out. It’s never fun seeing another player out and a star player out of the lineup.
“It is scary how long these things can take. I remember I was sitting there with mine and you never knew when it was going to come out. I would have dinner with friends and it would be like they were talking to a wall.”
Chris Campoli still remains unsigned. The Ottawa Sun reported a while ago that 5 teams were interested. Jordan Hendry will be on a tryout with Minnesota.
- Tarik El-Bashir of the Washington Post: Capitals goalie Tomas Vokoun said that Detroit offered him a deal similar to the one he received from the Capitals, 1 year at $1.5 million.
“Looking at Washington’s lineup compared to Detroit, they are comparable teams,” Vokoun said. “But Detroit in last 10 years won three times Stanley Cup. And Washington never won it. But that’s a lot better challenge for me and the team, to be able to do something special.”
and later added
“My belief is this team has a better chance to win than Detroit does. And they showed a lot more interest, so that was the key for me, too.”
- Katie Strang of Newsday: Alexei Yashin skated at the Islanders practice facility yesterday but it remains “unlikely” that he re-signs with the team.
- Allen Panzeri of the Ottawa Citizen: Senators captain Daniel Alfredsson skated yesterday for 70 minutes, taking part in every drill and full scrimmage. Alfredsson only played in 54 games last year and had surgery this summer.
- Michael Russo of the Star Tribune: Russo writes a very good piece about Derek Boogaard and his battle with painkillers. You should read it rather than me summarizing parts of it.
- Tim Sassone of the Daily Herald: Blackhawks forward Dave Bolland considers himself lucky with the concussion he sustained last March. He missed the last 14 regular season games and the first 3 of the playoffs. He’ll be ready to go for training camp.
Flames depth allowed them to move Langkow … What if Couturier makes Flyers? Isles looking for D, Kuba? Whitney, Malone expect to be ready for camp
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL Injuries, NHL News, NHL Rumors on August 30th, 2011
- Eric Francis of the Calgary Sun: Jay Feaster cited the Flames depth where it matters most as one of the reasons he sent center Daymond Langkow to the Coyotes for winger Lee Stempniak. The Flames are going to see if Mikael Backlund can center the top line with Jarome Iginla and Alex Tanguay. The Flames also have Brendan Morrison, Olli Jokinen and Matt Stajan down the middle. Langkow carries a $4.5 million cap hit this year, Stempniak carries a $1.9 million hit. Niklas Hagman’s time as a Flame could be running short and he may find himself making $3 million in the AHL.
- Tim Panaccio of CSNPhilly: Some think that 2011 1st round pick Sean Couturier could make the Flyers roster, which could create a logjam at center. Down the middle they have Danny Briere, Claude Giroux, Blair Betts, Brayden Schenn and Ben Holmstrom. Michael Nylander is also heading to camp on a tryout.
- Ken Warren of the Ottawa Citizen: Chris Botta of NYI Point Blank suggests that the Islanders could be looking for a veteran defenseman. Warren wonders if the Isles would be interested in Filip Kuba. The Isles are $2.3 million below the salary cap floor. Chris Campoli and Bryan McCabe are free agent defenseman still available.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Oilers defenseman Ryan Whitney injured his surgically repaired right ankle skating earlier this month, but hopes to be ready for the start of training camp. “I rolled over on the foot … caught a rut in the ice. Minor sprain, I think,” said Whitney, “I’ll be back in Edmonton on Saturday. I don’t think it’s serious.”
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Pat Morris, the agent for former Oilers defenseman Steve Staios:
“He’s been training with all the young players at Matt Nichols’ camp in Toronto. I really think Steve could help a young team like the Islanders or Colorado (Avalanche). He played 23 of the last 27 games for Calgary last season, was an even-or plus-player in 18 of those games and had eight points.”
- Erik Erlendsson of the Tampa Tribune: Lightning winger Ryan Malone had surgery in July to repair some damage from the shoulder separation he suffered in first round of the playoffs.
“It was just kind of nagging, so I went to get it looked at it and it was still kind of separated so we had to go get it fixed,” Malone said. “After the season there was still all the swelling so after everything went down, that’s when we found some other stuff that had to be taken care of.”
Initial reports were saying he would miss up to 6 months, but Malone said he expects to be ready for the season opener on Oct. 7th. Malone hasn’t been cleared for contact and likely won’t before the start of camp.
- Lindsay Applebaum of the Washington Post: Capitals goalie Tomas Vokoun wants to go out and enjoy playing hockey. He was disappointed with the offers he got in early July, including the 3 year offer from the Panthers.
“It was something I was looking at as, you know, I want to enjoy hockey. I want to play in playoffs,” Vokoun said Monday. “It’s been really tough for me. I lost four years. I’ve been sitting every summer here in South Florida, which I love, in the afternoons swimming in the pool, and by 7:30 at night I put on the TV and watch playoff hockey every single year. If you care and love playing hockey, it’s not an easy thing to do.”
- Gordon McIntyre of the Vancouver Province: Canucks forward Mikael Samuelsson, who had surgery last May, is back on the ice and is feeling stronger in the groin and hip area. He had abductor-tendon and sports hernia surgery, and began training in July.
- Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun: “I don’t know about you, but if I had Drew Doughty on my team, I’d do everything to make sure he was signed, happy, and ready to lead my Los Angeles Kings team. The last thing I’d want is to drag my franchise player through the negotiating mud all summer with no contract agreed to with three weeks until training camp.”
- George Malik via twitter: According to Sport-Express, Metallurg of the KHL is trying to sign Jarkko Ruutu.
Kesler out 10-12 weeks … Neuvirth isn’t concerned with Vokoun … Hudler on a short leash … Islanders and Blues franchise notes
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on August 3rd, 2011
- Ian Walker of the Vancouver Sun: Canucks forward Ryan Kesler had hip labral surgery on July 25th and will be out 10-12 weeks. It is likely that he’ll miss the start of the regular season. Kesler suffered the injury during Game 5 against the Sharks, and he had hoped to avoid surgery. He had a similar injury in 2006-07 that required surgery.
- Lindsay Applebaum of the Washington Post: Capitals goalie Michal Neuvirth isn’t that concerned about the teams addition of Tomas Vokoun.
“Yeah, that’s a pity,” he said to the Czech site. “But I don’t care who is number one and who is number two right now. It’s summer, the season has not even begun. These talks don’t harm me at all. I’m going to camp with the same position as every year. I want to play as many games as possible, whether at the expense of Tomas Vokoun or Varly. I just want to play.”
- Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: Red Wings winger Jiri Hudler struggled last season despite being given opportunities to play with their top players. He’s expected to “be kept on a short leash.” If he doesn’t show that he’s capable of playing on the top 2 lines, the Wings may look to move him while he still has some value. He’ll be a free agent after the season.
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Teemu Selanne is still testing his knee, he’s been skating in Finland. If he returns next year is still unknown. Ducks GM Bob Murray has been in contact with Selanne all summer and remains confident that he’ll play if his knee is okay.
- James Mirtle via twitter: Colin White and Trent Hunter cleared waivers yesterday and are closer to being bought out.
- Katie Strang of Newsday: Islanders GM Garth Snow answered “We would look at all options to make our team better” when asked if they would consider re-signing Trent Hunter when he is bought out.
- Jeff Klein and Ken Belson of the NY Times: Charles Wang after the voters voted no,
“Right now, I have to tell you, it’s a very emotional time and we’re not going to make any comments on any specific next steps.”
If they can’t come up with a new or refurbished arena, the Islanders could move in 2015. They reportedly lose $20 million a season. If they consider relocation, the front-runners could be Brooklyn and Quebec City, with Kansas City, Hamilton and Seattle longer shots.
“We will continue to work closely with the Islanders to explore whatever options still may be available in light of what obviously is not a positive development,” Bettman said. “Our goal is for the team to remain on Long Island and we still hope that objective can be realized.”
- Larry Brooks via twitter: New Jersey Nets owner Mikhail Prokhorov’s spokesperson said he has, “no interest in purchasing another sports team at this time.”
- Andy Strickland of True Hockey: 9 individuals/groups have expressed interest in buying the St. Louis Blues, and each have been sent a letter informing them to submit their formal offers by August 22nd. Matthew Hulsizer may have moved on as the asking price was too high.
Allen’s 10 early projections … Nassau vote today, Kansas City and NJ Nets owner could be paying attention … Weber’s hearing tomorrow
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on August 1st, 2011
- Kevin Allen of the USA Today: Allen offers 10 early projections for the upcoming season. 1. Jeff Carter and Rick Nash will score more than 75 combined goals this season. 2. Predicts the Oilers will be an “elite Pittsburgh Penguins-style contender by 2013-14.” 3. If Shane Doan isn’t re-signed during the season, he’ll be hot name at the trade deadline. 4. Ales Hemsky will lead the league in trade rumors again. 5. The Rangers and Sabres have improved and should move up the standings. Some think the Capitals and Penguins will drop, Allen doesn’t. 6. Best bargain goaltending: Tomas Vokoun ($1.5 million), Jonathan Quick ($1.8 million) and Jimmy Howard ($2.25 million). 7. The Predators will acquire a top 6 scoring forward. Cory Stillman and Sergei Samsonov are free agents, or they could go the trade route with teams looking so shed some salary. 8. The Lightning will give up 20 to 25 less goals due to having Dwayne Roloson for the entire season. 9. Predators Blake Geoffrion will be in the rookie of the year race. 10. Sabres owner Terry Pegula will be the teams MVP this year.
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: The Nassau County referendum vote for a new arena is today. If they don’t get a positive vote for a new arena, the team could be up for sale. Would NJ Nets owner Mikhail Prokhorov want to buy the club and bring it to Brooklyn? The new arena being built in Brooklyn will be ready for the 2012-13 season, and could fill 44-60 dates.
- Peter Grathoff of the Kansas City Star: If votes go in the way of not building the new arena in Nassau County, it could one day increase the chances of moving them to Kansas City. The Islanders lease expires at the Nassau Coliseum in 2015.
- Josh Cooper of the Tennessean: Shea Weber’s arbitration hearing is tomorrow morning at 8 a.m., and both sides have filed their written briefs. After briefs are filed, it sometimes speeds up negotiations to get a deal done before the hearing.
- Kelly Friesen via twitter: Word is that the Blues would like Jaden Schwartz to play with the Tri-City Americans but he’d rather stay at Colorado College.
Doughty hasn’t heard from Kings since late June … Brodeur to play out deal … NHL Realignment … Plenty of interest in Blues … Jets have 8 RFAs
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Audio, NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on July 13th, 2011
- Helene Elliott of the LA Times: Drew Doughty’s side hasn’t heard from the Kings since June 23rd. The Kings are believed to have offered a 9 year deal worth more than $6.5 million per season.
“I think he’d be happy to stay if we agree upon terms that are acceptable to him,” Meehan said. “And those are our instructions, to negotiate with L.A. on that basis to secure something that he’d be happy with.”
There isn’t really any salary comparables for Doughty. They may be waiting for Shea Weber’s deal to get done, he has an arbitration date set for August 2nd.
“I know how important Drew Doughty is to the Los Angeles Kings on a going-forward basis,” Meehan said. “I think that’s something that they’re very well aware of and they know what they have to do. And I’m sure at the appropriate time we’ll all get together and have further discussions.”
- Mark Everson of the NY Post: Devils goalie Martin Brodeur isn’t interested in signing a contract extension as he plans on playing out the final year of his contract.
“I’m going to go through the season first, and then see. I’m going to play out this year,” Brodeur told The Post.
- Ted Wyman of the Winnipeg Sun: Re-alignment could find the Jets in the Central division next year with the Wild, Blackhawks, Predators, Blues, Stars and possibly the Blue Jackets. The Pacific division could include the Canucks, Oilers, Flames, Sharks, Kings, Ducks and the Avalanche. The Red Wings and the Blue Jackets would like to move to the East.
- Dan O’Neill of the St. Louis Post Dispatch: Interest in buying the Blues has picked up over the past 10 days, with 5 groups listed as “very interested parties.” A date has been set to give all interested parties time to do their homework to see if they want to put in a bid for the team. The purchase would include the team, management contracts on the Scottrade Center and their AHL team Peoria. 70% share in the team is up for sale.
- Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Teemu Selanne had arthroscopic surgery on his left knee 2 weeks ago, and has begun light skating.
“His kids are at camp and he’s out there skating with them,” Murray said. “He feels fine. He said, ‘OK, let’s talk next week like we always planned.”
The Ducks are also awaiting word on Jonas Hiller who is expected to face some shots during a Francois Allaire goalie camp.
- Kirkland Crawford of the Detroit Free Press: After Tomas Vokoun decided he didn’t want to re-sign with the Panthers, he didn’t receive that much interest,
“I did not get a single offer. No one! Then at the end came the Detroit and Washington. That was all.”
Vokoun’s role with the Red Wings would have been in the backup role to Jimmy Howard.
- Ed Tait of the Winnipeg Free Press: Blake Wheeler and the Jets are still talking about about a new contract for the right winger. Wheeler made $2.2 million last season, scoring 18 goals. From his agent, Matt Keator,
“Still talking. We agree to disagree on some points, but both sides trying hard to reach an agreement.”
The Jets have other RFAs they need to re-sign as well: Zach Bogosian, Brett Festerling, Arturs Kulda, Spencer Machacek, Ben Maxwell, Riley Holzapfel and Kenndal McArdle.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Kyle Wellwood contacted several clubs, but no one went out of their way to call him.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: Manny Legace doesn’t want to retire and is looking for a 2-way contract.
- Steve Tambellini Audio: Tambellini talks about the Andrew Cogliano trade.
- Andrew Cogliano Audio: Cogliano talks about being traded to Anaheim.
Penguins signings likely done … Moves coming in NJ … Maple Leafs notes … Panthers offered Vokoun a 4 year deal
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL News, NHL Rumors on July 4th, 2011
- Josh Yohe of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: The Penguins have about $2.1 million in cap space, but it’s unlikely they will make any more signings. They want to be around $1.5 million under the cap during the season to give them the room to bring someone in at a later date. The Pens may be tempted to put Malkin and Staal on the same line again this year. “I don’t think you can say ‘Malkin as a winger failed’ because Malkin as a winger never was tried with Crosby and Staal in the lineup,” Bylsma said.
- Mark Everson of the NY Post: Devils GM Lou Lamoriello,
“We’ll be doing some subtraction. There will not be a salary cap problem here,” Lamoriello told The Post yesterday. “There will be different transactions taking place over a short period of time.”
Players that could be affected are Bryce Salvador ($2.9 million cap hit), Brian Rolston ($5.1 million) and Dainius Zubrus ($3.4 million).
- Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun: The Leafs have brought in Tim Connolly, John-Michael Liles, Cody Franson, Matthew Lombardi, and added 2 new coaches in the past couple weeks. Mike Komisarek’s role will be greatly reduced. JS Giguere wanted to stay but was told no. There wasn’t much attempt to keep Christian Hanson and Tim Brent.
- Mike Zeisberger of the Toronto Sun: Clarke MacArthur has been monitoring the free agent signings, looking for comparables for his arbitration case later this summer. MacArthur could be getting a nice deal if they get to arbitration. You have to wonder if the Leafs would walk away if it was too much.
- Bruce Garrioch via twitter: The Panthers last offer to Tomas Vokoun was reportedly 4 years and $10 million. (He signed a 1 year deal with the Capitals for $1.5 million)
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: McKenzie thinks the Coyotes will gauge Keith Yandle’s trade value and consider if they should re-sign or trade.
NHL Free Agent tracker for July 2nd
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News on July 2nd, 2011
| Players | Old Team | New Team | Contract Notes |
| Rick Rypien | Canucks | Jets | 1 year, $700,000 |
| Kent Huskins | Sharks | Blues | 1 year, $1 million |
| Randy Jones | Lightning | Jets | 1 year, $1.15 million |
| Tomas Vokoun | Panthers | Capitals | 1 year, $1.5 million |
| Ian White | Sharks | WIngs | 2 years, $5.75 million |
| Alec Bolduc | Canucks | Coyotes | 1 year , $575,000 |
| Simon Gagne | Lightning | Kings | 2 years, $7 million |
| Anthony Stewart | Jets | Hurricanes | 2 years, $1.8 million |
| Tim Connolly | Sabres | Leafs | 2 years, $9.5 million |
| Nolan Baumgartner | Canucks | Canucks | 1 year, $525,000 |
| Chris Bourque | Capitals | 1 year, $1 million | |
| Matt Gilroy | Rangers | Lightning | 1 year , $1.4 million |
| Brad Richards | Stars | Rangers | 9 years, $60 million |
NHL free agent rumors | NHL rumors and notes involving Hudler, Vokoun, Kings, Ducks, Jagr, Penguins, Avs, Coyotes, Kennedy, Jets, and Varlamov
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on July 1st, 2011
- Greg Brady via twitter: The Red Wings were offering Jiri Hudler to many teams at the draft.
- Rob Longley of the Toronto Sun: The Leafs signed Jay Rosehill late Wednesday and he could fill Colton Orr’s role, who could be in doubt. Luke Schenn won’t be going anywhere. The Leafs aren’t a in hurry to get a deal done, and Schenn’s side may want to wait to see what comparables sign for. They won’t overpay Clarke MacArthur after 1 good season and appear fine with going to arbitration.
- Helene Elliott of the LA Times: The LA Kings will be focusing on ‘mid-range’ wingers during free agency. The Ducks will be looking at 3rd and 4th line players. The Kings have $16 million in cap space, but that will decrease with Drew Doughty’s deal. The Kings are unlikely to re-sign Alexei Ponikarovsky. The Ducks won’t re-sign Jarkko Ruutu, Brad Winchester, Andreas Lilja and Ray Emery. Teemu Selanne had arthroscopic surgery last week and won’t decide until later this summer if he’ll play or not.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: The Avalanche are sitting about $15 million below the salary floor. Their biggest need is between the pipes as they don’t have a starter or backup. Tomas Vokoun is likely the best option. The Coyotes could also be in the bidding for Vokoun. Other possibilities for the Avs are: Jose Theodore, Ray Emery, Pascal LeClaire, Mike Smith, Chris Osgood, Marty Turco, Ty Conklin, Josh Harding and Brian Boucher. The Avs could also look at adding a position player, possibly Ville Leino, Sean Bergenheim, and Joel Ward. They could be tempted to make an offer to Ed Jovanovski.
- Jim Gintonio of the Arizona Republic: The Coyotes will look at adding a goalie. Tomas Vokoun could be an option, he could be seeking a 3 year deal worth $9.5 million from Florida. “We’re having conversations with Fiddler’s agent, Vrbata’s agent,” Maloney said. “We’d like to retain (them) if the contracts make sense.”
- Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: The Blues don’t plan on making any major acquisitions today. They will look at adding a couple complimentary players. “The teams are making their decisions on their players, signing them and not letting them get to free agency,” Armstrong said. “If you’re trying to create your team on July 1st, I think that’s a very slippery slope.”
- Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: Jaromir Jagr’s “heart is in Pittsburgh.” according to his agent. Penguins GM Ray Shero spoke with Jagr’s agent again yesterday, and continue to wait on a decision if he’ll accept a 1 year deal in the $2 million range. Shero is making progress on a Tyler Kennedy deal. Reports are saying the Flyers could be interested in Jagr, but no offer has been made. The Canadiens could be a wild-card team.
- Brian Wilde via twitter: ESPN is reporting that Jagr’s agent was in Montreal last night, and Jagr has expressed in playing with the Canadiens.
- Will DePaoli via twitter: The Penguins should hear back from Tyler Kennedy this morning on a possible 2 year deal.
- David Pagnotta via twitter: As of yesterday afternoon the Jets weren’t close to re-signing Andrew Ladd or Zach Bogosian.
- Rich Chere via twitter: Lou Lamoriello has spoken with Andy Greene’s agent the last 2 days, and plans to do so again today.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Semyon Varlamov’s agent said that he won’t play for Lokomotiv of the KHL. If he can’t work out a deal to play for SKA, he will head back to the NHL.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Jonathan Ericsson signed a 3 year deal worth $9.75 million with Red Wings.
- Dennis Bernstein via twitter: Bernstein thinks that Ed Jovanovski or James Wisniewski are more likely than Tomas Kaberle in Detroit.
Lapierre re-signs with Canucks … Kopecky’s rights sent to Panthers … Some received qualifying offers, others didn’t
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 28th, 2011
- Jim Jamieson of the Vancouver Province: Maxim Lapierre has re-signed with the Canunks, a 2 year deal worth $2 million. Jannik Hansen and Victor Oreskovich received qualifying offers from the Canucks. Lee Sweatt did not received a qualifying offer.
- Chicago Tribune: The Blackhawks sent the rights to Tomas Kopecky to the Panthers for a 2012 or 2013 7th round pick. The 2012 pick is conditional to the Predators. Kopecky is coming off a 2 year, $2.4 million deal and is a UFA.
- Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette: Benoit Pouliot, Alexandre Picard, Tom Pyatt, Nigel Dawes and Dustin Boyd were not given qualifying offers by the Canadiens. GM Pierre Gauthier had tried to trade Pouliot and Pyatt at the draft but came up empty. They sent qualifying offers to Josh Gorges, Yannick Weber, Ryan White, Mathieu Carle, Ryan Russell, Frederic St. Denis and Kyle Klubertanz.
- Wayne Scanlan of the Ottawa Citizen: Cody Bass, Jason Bailey and Ryan Potulny did not receive qualifying offers from the Ottawa Senators.
- Ken Beckett via twitter: Tyler Bozak, Luca Caputi, Matt Lashoff, Clarke MacArthur, Luke Schenn, Greg Scott and Ben Scrivens were qualified by the Maple Leafs.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Brian Elliott and Phillipe Dupuis did not receive qualifying offers from the Avalanche. With Peter Budaj not under contract for next season, the Avs will be after a goalie. Dater thinks the Avs will have Tomas Vokoun at the top of their goalie wish-list. They may need to sign 2 goalies as Calvin Pickard probably isn’t ready yet. They could make an offer to Josh Harding, who missed last season with a knee injury. Ryan O’Bryne, Kyle Cumiskey, Kevin Porter, David Jones, TJ Galiardi and Ryan WIlson were qualified.
- David Pollak via twitter: Desjardins, Stalock received new contracts from the Sharks. McGinn, Ferriero, McCarthy, McLaren received qualifying offers from the Sharks. Schaus, Hutton, Davis, Henderson, Loprieno, Swift did not receive qualifying offers from the Sharks.
Plenty of teams want to deal as NHL draft approaches … Doughty gets “major” offer … Bryzgalov deal could be done by Wednesday
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 20th, 2011
Update 9:49 am: Brian Compton via twitter: Niklas Lidstrom has agreed to a 1 year contract with the Red Wings,
Update 9:25 am: Pierre LeBrun via twitter: The Red Wings have called an 11:00 am media conference call with Nicklas Lidstrom and Ken Holland.
- Michael Russo of the Star Tribune: Russo lists some trade scuttlebutt. Colorado: Would trade the 11th overall, looking for a goaltender, maybe Jonathan Bernier or Cory Schneider. The Avs want to keep the 2nd overall pick. Columbus: Could trade the 8th overall pick for an impact center or puck moving defenseman. Have talked with Philadelphia and Edmonton. Detroit: Could be offering up Jiri Hudler and/or Valtteri Filppula for a puck moving defenseman. Edmonton: Would like to get another pick in the top 10. Possible players they are shopping are Ales Hemsky, Tom Gilbert, Sam Gagner and Andrew Cogliano. New Jersey: Looking for a puck moving defenseman, rumored to have talked to Wild about Brent Burns. Wouldn’t mind moving the big contract of Brian Rolston and Dainius Zubrus. Philadelphia: Need to trade at least $5 million to be able to sign Ilya Bryzgalov, would like to get a top 10 pick in the draft. Matt Carle, Scott Hartnell and Kris Versteeg are available. Phoenix: Looking for a young goalie. Tampa Bay: Shopping Ryan Malone.
- Michael Russo of the Star Tribune: Wild GM Chuck Fletcher has said anyone is available except Mikko Koivu. Brent Burns might be being offered up for an impact forward. Fletcher has had preliminary talks with Burns’ agent. Burns will be a free agent after next year.
“Whether we make anything happen on the trade front, whether we add players or move up or down in the first round, you never know,” Fletcher said. “But I can guarantee you, whatever we do or don’t do, there will be an awful lot of conversations about an awful lot of things that may or may not make sense to us or the team we’re speaking with.
“Ninety percent of things discussed around the draft don’t happen, but there will be a lot of activity and we’ll be busy. What that means at end of day, we’ll find out.”
It’s likely the Wild will keep the 10th overall pick outright unless a “special scenario” presents itself. Niklas Backstrom, Martin Havlat, Marek Zidlicky and Matt Cullen have no-trade clauses. Teams might be interested in Pierre-Marc Bouchard, Nick Schultz and Greg Zanon. Cal Clutterbuck and AHL dman Marco Scandella may draw some interest, but the Wild may want to keep them. They’ve been trying to trade Cam Barker, but might end up buying him out. The Wild may be interested in moving up in the draft, but more likely, trading down to acquire another 1st or 2nd round pick.
- Frank Seravalli of the Philadelphia Daily News: Ilya Bryzgalov said the ball is in the Flyers court now. “Tuesday or Wednesday everything will be [done]. We are waiting for [Philadelphia].” Though a deal could be completed soon, they won’t be able to announce it until cap room is cleared.
- James Murphy via twitter: Tomas Kaberle would prefer to re-sign with the Bruins, and will be meeting with his agent and Peter Chiarelli in the next few days.
- Rich Hammond of LA Kings Insider: The Kings may be looking to get back into the 1st round, but only if the deal makes sense. The Kings have made a “major” offer to Drew Doughty. Kings GM Dean Lombardi has made 2 trips in 4 weeks to Doughty’s agent (Don Meehan) office in Toronto. Lombardi would like to get a contract done before the draft, and isn’t overly concerned about an offer sheet. The Kings are still looking for a top-level forward through trade or free agency.
- Damian Cristodero of the St. Petersburg Times: The Lightning may be looking to trade up from 27th overall at this Friday’s draft. Head scout Al Murray, “There are eight to 10 players who are sort of the consensus top guys. … That next group of probably 40 players is all over the place, depending on individual team needs and individual preferences.” Talks involving a new contract for Sean Bergenheim may not be going great, and he could become a free agent on July 1st. His agent Todd Diamond on if a deal could get done before July 1st, “It’s not going to be easy, but stranger things can happen.” Steve Yzerman wants to get a deal done with Steven Stamkos by July 1st so no team could set the parameters on a new deal.
- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: Tomas Vokoun’s agent, Michael C. Deutsch, “At this point it looks like he’ll hit the open market on July 1,” and “He’s keeping all his options open, including going back to Florida.” Panthers GM Dale Tallon didn’t rule out trying to re-sign Vokoun,
“We’ll see. It depends what happens between now and July 1. We’re not done yet,” Tallon told ESPN.com on Saturday. “There’s still lots of time. It’s hard to say what’s going to happen.”
It was reported a few days ago that Vokoun told a Czech newspaper that he might be interested in going to Colorado. His agent said those weren’t Vokoun’s quotes.
- Wayne Scanlan of the Ottawa Citizen: Senators GM Bryan Murray said he’s spoken with Oilers GM Steve Tambellini about the 1st overall pick, but doubts the Oilers will move it. “I can imagine who they’d want from us,” Murray said, “our little right-shot defenceman I would think.” He was referring to Erik Karlsson, Murray said he’s not doing that.
Rangers may not be able to buyout Drury now … Vokoun likes the Avs? Oilers trying to move up in 1st round … Bryzgalov meets with Flyers
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Entry Draft, NHL News, NHL Rumors on June 17th, 2011
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: Chris Drury has a degenerative condition in his left knee that won’t allow him to play next year. The NY Rangers were planning on buying him out but due to the condition they won’t be able to. Drury’s $7.05 million will count against the summer cap in which a team can’t exceed next year’s cap by more than 10%. If they were able to buy him out, it would have carried about $3.717 million of dead space this summer. Once the season starts they can put him on LTIR. It’s likely that Drury’s career is over.
- Peter Adler of the Edmonton Journal: Tomas Vokoun told a Czech newspaper that he’s not thinking about taking the offer from Avangard Omsk of the KHL as he wants to remain in the NHL. The paper is saying that Vokoun has heard from the Flyers and from the Coyotes.
“I would not be displeased if I got a good offer from Floria and accepted it,” the paper quotes Vokoun as saying. “But if I happen to get an offer from a team that might have a chance to challenge for the Stanley Cup, now, that might be irresistible.”
When asked which team, Vokoun said “Like Colorado.”
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Dater talked with Avs GM Greg Sherman several days ago, and he didn’t seemed worried about their goaltending situation. It seemed to Dater that he already knew what will happen regarding the goalie.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: The Oilers are trying hard to move from #19 in the NHL draft (pick acquired in the Dustin Penner trade) in to the top 10. They may not necessarily draft a forward and defenseman in the draft as next year there could be 15 dman worthy of a 1st round pick. There are lots of trade scenarios for the Oilers, most revolve around Ales Hemsky. Taylor Hall, Jordan Eberle, Magnus Paajarvi, Shawn Horcoff, and Ryan Whitney are pretty much untouchables. Prospects Anton Lander, Jeff Petry and Teemu Hartikainen may not be available either, everyone else could be available. Matheson offers some trade scenarios that are 99% certain not to happen. Hemsky, a prospect, the 19th and 31st pick to Colorado for the 2nd overall pick. Hemsky, the 19th and 31st, plus a 2012 2nd round pick to New Jersey for the 4th pick (suggested by someone else). Eberle, Sam Gagner and the 31st pick for the 5th overall pick, Kyle Okposo and Travis Hamonic. Columbus seems like an obvious trade partner, but it may be unlikely that they are interested in a player like Hemsky who would be a free agent after next year and has had shoulder issues. Blue Jackets GM Scott Howson,
“We’ve had a little bit of interest in it so far and we’re willing to listen. Given where our franchise is now, we’d be more open to moving it for immediate help. We would be looking for a centre or a defenceman because we’re pretty strong on the wing with R.J. Umberger, (Rick) Nash, (Kristian) Huselius and (Jake) Voracek,”
If the Oilers don’t deal Hemsky, they’ll need to figure out if they want to re-sign him and committ around $5 million per season when they have the likes of Hall, Eberle, and Paajarvi who be looking for more money in a couple years. Would Winnipeg at #7 be interested? Could they look to move Sam Gagner?
- Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Daily News: The Flyers and Ilya Bryzgalov have begun negotiations. Bryzgalov met with a variety of organizational members yesterday. If his demands aren’t crazy, they should be able to get a deal. Carchidi thinks a 5 year deal at $5.5 million could be a good number. They don’t want to move Jeff Carter to clear cap space, but may consider if the received a big offer. It would have to be move than the 8th overall pick and Jakub Voracek rumored deal. If they can’t get a deal with Bryzgalov done, Evgeni Nabokov could be an option.
Rangers should offer pick for Richards … Avs goalie options … Penguins start negotiations … Flames hope to re-sign Tanguay … Gunnarson could be trade bait
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 24th, 2011
- Greg Brady via twitter: Sources tell Brady the earliest the Stanley Cup Finals would start would be next Monday. There will be no games on this Saturday regardless.
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: If the Rangers wait until July 1st to go after Brad Richards, they’ll have steep competition in Toronto and Los Angeles, and the price may go up. Brooks thinks the Rangers should make an offer to the Stars before July 1st, so Richards an get acquainted with the organization, and they could get full info on his concussion this past season. Brooks thinks the Rangers should offer the Stars a 2nd round pick (#57) for Richards.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Dater doesn’t think the Avalanche will offer any a goalie a contract in the $5-6 million per season range. Free agent goalies in that range are Ilya Bryzgalov and Tomas Vokoun. Other possible goalies could be: Josh Harding – risky, JS Giguere – too many miles, Marty Turco – no thanks, Chris Osgood – pass. The trade route could be an option but comes with a price: Jonathan Quick, Jonathan Bernier, or Cory Schneider – all expensive. If they go after Vokoun, Dater would only offer a 3 year deal worth $10 million. Peter Budaj won’t be back, and they can’t go into the season hoping Brian Elliott is the answer.
- Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: The Penguins have started negotiations with free agents Pascal Dupuis and Mike Rupp. Dupuis, 32, had a cap hit of $1.4 million last year. Rupp, 31, had a $825,000.
- Will DePaoli via twitter: The Penguins have begun talks with Craig Adams. Nothing is imminent but it’s possible that they could get a deal done this week.
- Vicki Hall of the Calgary Herald: Flames GM Jay Feaster said on the radio yesterday that he has confidence the Flames will re-sign winger Alex Tanguay. “We believe we can,” the general manager said on NHL Live. “We do want to get him signed.” Tanguay signed a 1 year deal worth $1.7 million last year, and recorded 22 goals and 69 points. The Flames have 17 players under contract for next year with a cap hit of $55.8 million with an expected cap around $62.2 million. Ales Kotalik and his $3 million salary could be off to the minors next season. The future of Niklas Hagman and his $3 million is also in doubt. The Flames hope to re-sign backup goalie Henrik Karlsson. They have 4 UFA defenseman, Anton Babchuk ($1.4 million), Adam Pardy ($700,000), Steve Staios ($2.7 million) and Brett Carson ($500,000). Brendan Mikkelson ($687,500) is a RFA.
- Damien Cox of the Toronto Star: With the strong play of Maple Leafs prospects Jesse Blacker (Owen Sound) and Jake Gardiner, Carl Gunnarson could be vulnerable as Brian Burke continue to look for a number 1 center.
- Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: St. Louis Blues prospect Vladimir Tarasenko has decided to spend another year in the KHL. Update: “Sibir GM tells SovSport the Blues made an “exclusive offer” to Tarasenko “like no other…guaranteeing he’d play.” “Sibir GM to Sovsport about the Blues’ offer to Tarasenko: “We had no idea the Blues wanted [Tarasenko] to come so bad. But it’d be better for him to play 1 more year in Russia before moving to the NHL.”
- Joe Yerdon via twitter: Doug Weight is expected to announce his retirement today.
Blackhawks sign Crawford … Werek and Etem sign entry level deals … Button has trade ideas for Capitals … Panthers want to bring Vokoun back
Posted by Mark Easson in NHL Free Agents, NHL News, NHL Rumors on May 20th, 2011
- Elliott Pap of hte Vancouver Sun: Canucks winger Mikael Samuelsson will be out for the remainder of the season after adductor tendon and sports hernia surgery.
- Chicago Breaking Sports: The Blackhawks have signed Corey Crawford to a 3 year deal worth $8 million, a $2.6 million cap hit. “It means a lot,” Crawford said. “I want to be a part of the Blackhawks and I think the management and everyone there wanted me back too. It’s great to get it done early. Now I can just focus on workouts and getting prepared for next season.”
- Arizona Republic: The Coyotes have signed recently acquired prospect Ethan Werek to an entry level deal. Werek scored 24 goals and added 28 assists in 47 games with Kington of the OHL. He was acquired earlier this month from the Rangers for Oscar Linberg.
- Eric Stephens of hte OC Register: The Ducks have signed 2010 1st round (29th overall) draft pick Emerson Etem to an entry level deal. His NHL deal is for $900,000 with $90,000 in bonuses, $67,500 AHL salary. Etem scored 45 goals with 35 assists in 65 games with Medicine Hat of the WHL.
- Craig Button of ESPN: Button offers some trade options for the Capitals this off-season. They have 3 capable goalies in Michal Neuvirth, Semyon Varlamov and Braden Holtby. The Flyers could be one option, and have rugged winger Scott Hartnell. Could expand the deal to include Jeff Schultz and Braydon Coburn. Button thinks the Caps should target Valtteri Filppula and could offer up Mike Green. Jonathan Ericsson could also be a target of Washington. Flames defenseman Robyn Regehr would also look good in a Caps uniform. If the Caps offered up prospect Cody Eakin, it might open up discussions for Rene Bourque or David Moss. Button offers up a blockbuster proposal: one of Washington’s three goalies, Mike Green, and Alexander Semin to Anaheim for Francois Beauchemin and Bobby Ryan.
- The Fourth Period: The Panthers are very interested in bringing goalie Tomas Vokoun back next season. The 35 year old had a cap hit of $5.7 million last year.
- Adam Jahns of the Chicago Sun-Times: With Corey Crawford locked up, the Blackhawks will now focus on Michael Frolik and Chris Campoli. They will also have decide what they are going to do with RFAs Viktor Stalberg, Troy Brouwer and Jake Dowell.
- Michael Russo of the Star-Tribune: The Minnesota Wild have received permission for the Blue Jakets to speak with Ken Hitchcock. GM Chuck Fletcher has apparently interviewed Michel Therrien and Craig MacTavish already. Sources say Fletcher has talked to Kirk Muller, but he has not been ‘interviewed.’
- Katie Strang of the Newsday: Evgeni Nabokov plans on reporting to the Islanders training this fall. (If he’s not traded before)
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).
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