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NEWS CLIPPINGS • June 28, 2017

Brown signs one-year contract with Canes

By Chip Alexander

[email protected]

The Carolina Hurricanes announced Tuesday they have signed forward Patrick Brown to a one-year, two-way contract.

The deal will pay Brown, who would have been an unrestricted free agent on July 1, $650,000 at the NHL level or $160,000 at the American Hockey League level, with a guarantee of $190,000.

Brown, 25, completed his third professional season in 2016-17, finishing with 12 goals and 16 assists (28 with the AHL’s Charlotte Checkers. Brown also played 14 games with the Hurricanes last season, averaging 9:42 of ice time per game.

In 196 career AHL regular-season games with Charlotte, Brown has scored 27 goals and earned 36 assists. He has played 28 career NHL games with Carolina, scoring one goal and earning one assist.

Chelios signed to one-year, two-way contract by Canes

From staff reports

The Carolina Hurricanes on Tuesday signed defenseman Jake Chelios to a one-year, two-way contract that will pay him $650,000 on the NHL level or $85,000 on the American Hockey League level in the 2017-18 season.

Chelios, 26, led the Charlotte Checkers defensemen in scoring in the 2016-17 season with a career-high 32 points. The Chicago native also established career bests in assists

(28), plus/minus (+8) and shots on goal (152), serving as the Checkers alternate captain and team captain at various points throughout the season.

He was the only Checkers skater to appear in all 76 games, and his plus-21 rating from Jan. 10 through the end of the season ranked second among all AHL players.

Storm Advisory for June 28: NHL News, Rumors, Links and Daily Roundup

A former Cane gets a Hall of Fame call at his alma mater, and a current member of the team ties the knot.

by Andy House Jun 28, 2017, 7:03am EDT

Reading Assignments

• Former Hurricanes defenseman and Stanley Cup champion Bret Hedican will be part of the 2017 class of inductees at the St. Cloud State Hall of Fame. [St. Cloud State]

• A few days old, but the sentiment is still valid: Pierre LeBrun puts the brakes on talk of the Hurricanes shipping a defenseman for scoring help. [Pension Plan Puppets]

• A position change in the works for Sidney Crosby? I highly doubt it. [Sportsnet]

• Buzz around the league linking a possible Matt Duchene trade with the Penguins and veteran free agent Joe Thornton rumored to be in talks with the Kings. [NHL]

• Marc-Andre Fleury says goodbye and thank you to Pittsburgh. [Players’ Tribune]

• A look at the long and interesting route taken to the NHL by number one overall pick Nico Hischier of the New Jersey Devils. [New York Times]

• An exciting day yesterday for Canes goaltender Eddie Lack, who tied the knot at a ceremony in Sweden. Congratulations to the happy couple!

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Carolina Hurricanes sign Patrick Brown, Jake Chelios to one-year contract extensions

Two more signings as the Canes shore up their free agent ranks before the market opens on Saturday.

by Brian LeBlanc@bdleblanc Jun 27, 2017, 10:33am EDT

Another day, another pair of Carolina Hurricanes contract extensions. A day after re-upping with Derek Ryan, the Canes on Tuesday re-signed Patrick Brown to a one-year, two-way deal that will pay him $650,000 per year in the NHL or $160,000 in the AHL, with a salary guarantee of $190,000. The Canes also signed restricted free agent defenseman Jake Chelios to a one-year, two-way deal paying him $650,000 in the NHL and $85,000 in the AHL.

Brown spent his third professional season again shuttling between Carolina and the Charlotte Checkers, where he served as captain. In 14 games with the Hurricanes, Brown did not have a point, but he was more prolific with the Checkers, scoring a career-high 28 points in 66 AHL games.

This is the second straight one-year deal for Brown, who originally signed with the Hurricanes in 2014 following his college hockey career at Boston College. He will likely be a Group VI UFA again next summer, unless he plays in 52 games with the Canes in the upcoming season.

Chelios, extended a qualifying offer yesterday, has yet to make his NHL debut. In his first season with the Checkers, he led Charlotte defensemen with 32 points, and set personal career highs in points, assists (28) and plus-minus (+8). He has 134 points in 194 career AHL games with Charlotte and Chicago.

The releases from the team are below.

CANES AGREE TO TERMS WITH PATRICK BROWN

Forward split 2016-17 season between Carolina and Charlotte

Ron Francis, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the National Hockey League’s Carolina Hurricanes, today announced that the team has agreed to terms with forward Patrick Brown on a one-year, two-way contract. The deal will pay Brown $650,000 at the NHL level or $160,000 at the American Hockey League (AHL) level, with a guarantee of $190,000.

Brown, 25, completed his third professional season in 2016-17, posting 12 goals and earning 16 assists (28 points) with the AHL’s Charlotte Checkers. The Bloomfield Hills, MI, native also skated in 14 games with the Hurricanes last season, averaging 9:42 of ice time per game. In 196 career AHL regular-season games with Charlotte, Brown (6’1”, 197 lbs.) has scored 27 goals and earned 36 assists (63 points). He has skated in 28 career NHL games with Carolina, scoring one goal and earning one assist (2 points). Brown originally signed with Carolina as a free agent on April 12, 2014, following his four-year collegiate career at Boston College.

CANES AGREE TO TERMS WITH JAKE CHELIOS

Led Charlotte defensemen in scoring with 32 points in 2016-17

Ron Francis, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the National Hockey League’s Carolina Hurricanes, today announced that the team has agreed to terms with defenseman Jake Chelios on a one-year, two-way contract. The deal will pay Chelios $650,000 on the NHL level or $85,000 on the American Hockey League (AHL) level during the 2017-18 season.

Chelios, 26, led all Charlotte Checkers (AHL) defensemen in scoring during the 2016-17 season with a career-high 32 points. The Chicago native also established career bests in assists (28), plus/minus (+8) and shots on goal (152), serving as the Checkers alternate captain and team captain at various points throughout the season. He was the only Checkers skater to appear in all 76 of the team’s games, and his plus-21 rating from Jan. 10 through the end of the season ranked second among all AHL players.

Originally signed as a free agent by the Hurricanes on April 22, 2016, Chelios has totaled 134 points (12g, 67a) in 194 career AHL games with Chicago and Charlotte. He is the son of Hall of Fame defenseman Chris Chelios.

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Mailbag: Rangers options at center, future of Ilya Kovalchuk

NHL.com's Dan Rosen answers weekly questions

by Dan Rosen @drosennhl / NHL.com Senior Writer

12:00 AM

Here is the June 28 edition of Dan Rosen's weekly mailbag, which will run periodically during the offseason. If you have a question, tweet it to @drosennhl and use #OvertheBoards.

The New York Rangers are in need of a center after trading Derek Stepan. Do you see them going younger or going after a veteran player like a Joe Thornton or a Nick Bonino? Also, the Rangers' defense has holes. Do you see Brendan Smith re-signing with the Rangers? -- @_rodrigues_20

The Rangers have to replace two centers, Stepan and Oscar Lindberg, who they lost to the Vegas Golden Knights in the 2017 NHL Expansion Draft. What they do to replace Stepan depends on how they internally value Mika Zibanejad and Kevin Hayes. General manager Jeff Gorton and coach Alain Vigneault both have said they think Zibanejad and Hayes can be their top two centers. I'm not sure I buy that because neither has shown an ability to be a No. 1, but the Rangers have been forced to rely on depth at the position instead of a big-time player at the top of their depth chart because of their success and where it has led them in the draft in recent years.

I would expect them to go after Bonino or that type of center to fill the No. 3 spot, and then they can find a depth center to replace Lindberg. Options in free agency include Mike Fisher, Brian Boyle, Martin Hanzal and Nate Thompson. I brought up Thornton, who turns 38 on Sunday, to some colleagues and it's an intriguing idea. But if he wants a three-year contract, as has been reported, I don't think the Rangers are going that route. He'd be a terrific investment on a one-year contract or even a two-year contract. His friendship with Rick Nash also could be a pull. I really like Boyle as a fourth-line center with Jesper Fast and maybe Cristoval Nieves on his wings.

As for Smith, I think there is a good chance he returns. The Rangers liked him. He liked New York. He fits in because he can play on the left or right side.

Who has the best chance of signing Ilya Kovalchuk? -- @bloodfury96

The New Jersey Devils are the only team with the right to sign him. The Devils can work out a sign and trade with another team. They also could sign Kovalchuk, keep him for at least half the season, find out his true value on the market (remember, he hasn't played in the NHL since 2013 so his

impact isn't as predictable), hope he exceeds expectations and then trade him.

The Montreal Canadiens need some firepower. Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Lou Lamoriello and Kovalchuk have a tie from their time together in New Jersey. San Jose Sharks coach Peter DeBoer coached Kovalchuk in New Jersey. The Vegas Golden Knights have defensemen to trade and the Devils need defensemen. The New York Islanders still need another scorer for their top-six forward group. The Columbus Blue Jackets are trying to become a more dynamic scoring team, which is why they acquired forward Artemi Panarin in a trade with the Chicago Blackhawks for forward Brandon Saad.

Who do you see the Washington Capitals going after for a top-four defenseman? If not, how do they fill the Nate Schmidt hole? -- @hstempin92

Schmidt went to Vegas in the NHL Expansion Draft, and they're likely going to lose defenseman Karl Alzner in free agency. They don't seem to have much interest in bringing Alzner back, nor does there seem to be any interest from Washington in re-signing defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk. The Capitals need another top-four defenseman to join John Carlson, Matt Niskanen and Dmitry Orlov. They could look in the free agent market. Perhaps someone like Brian Campbell, who is 38, could work in Washington with the Capitals' style. He can still skate and move the puck. He has to decide if he wants to play outside Chicago, where he has made his home. The trade market is active so Washington GM Brian MacLellan could look there. Vegas has to move some defensemen, and Jason Garrison and Alexei Emelin could be options. The Minnesota Wild reportedly are willing to trade Matt Dumba, Jonas Brodin or Marco Scandella; perhaps something could be worked out there. It's almost a certainty that a trade with Minnesota would require MacLellan to give up a forward off of his roster. The Capitals also could fill some holes on defense with players already in the organization like Christian Djoos and Madison Bowey.

The Blackhawks got new people on and off the ice. Will we be OK? Will we make the playoffs? How will the backup goalie turn out? -- @AndrewKanagin

Yes, the Blackhawks will be fine. They still have some of the best players in the world at their respective positions in center Jonathan Toews, right wing Patrick Kane, defenseman Duncan Keith and goalie Corey Crawford. They obviously still have defenseman Brent Seabrook and they re-acquired Saad. They still have center Artem Anisimov and right wing Richard Panik. I think defenseman Connor Murphy is going to be a good fit. And a number of their young players, including forwards Ryan Hartman, John Haydn, Nick

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Schmaltz and Tanner Kero, had promising starts to their NHL careers. I'll be surprised if they're not a Stanley Cup contender again.

As for the backup goalie, Anton Forsberg is not proven at the NHL level but he's won and put up solid numbers at every other level, including the American Hockey League. Forsberg would have required waivers to be sent to the AHL this season, and part of the reason he was included in the trade to Chicago is because interest in him across the League was so high that there was no way he would have cleared waivers, Columbus Blue Jackets GM Jarmo Kekalainen said. That should give you some insight to his perceived potential at the NHL level.

Who are the New Jersey Devils No. 1 and No. 2 centers next season? And are they a better team? -- @Dobbs61

The ideal scenario for New Jersey is for Nico Hischier and either Adam Henrique or Pavel Zacha to fill those roles, but it's way too premature to be making that prediction. Let's see how Hischier does in development camp next month. Let's see if the Devils hold onto Henrique because trading him could be an option depending on the return. Let's see how Hischier does in training camp. Let's see if Hischier can even make the team. Let's see if the Devils start him on the wing, which I wouldn't do but is a possibility. Let's see if Zacha moves to the wing, which again I wouldn't do but is an option. It's way too early in the game to know for sure.

Which fan base should be the most/least excited for the upcoming season: Vegas for its first season, the Islanders with their big moves, or the Pittsburgh Penguins off of the Stanley Cup win? -- @mikeybox

In order of most to least:

1. Vegas: It's all new, fresh, exciting. Sports fans from Las Vegas have been waiting a long time to have a team in one of the four major professional sports in North America to call their own. This one is a no-brainer.

2. Pittsburgh: The back-to-back Stanley Cup champions have a chance to go for the three-peat. Why wouldn't you be pumped?

3. New York Islanders: It's still unclear what their final roster will look like, if they use the cap space and draft picks they got in trading defenseman Travis Hamonic to the Calgary Flames to acquire another top-six forward. GM Garth Snow has plenty of work ahead of him. It's still unclear if there is a reason for Islanders fans to be excited.

Your thoughts on the T.J. Oshie signing for the Capitals? Personally, my only concern is the term. -- @gdohlke79

I agree with your assessment. I like Oshie and the chemistry he has with Nicklas Backstrom and Alex Ovechkin. I don't mind him at a $5.75 million salary cap charge because I think he'll continue to put up points in that role. I like that he can score 30-plus goals because it takes pressure off Ovechkin. But he's 30 years old and he just signed an eight-year contract, so, yeah, I agree, the term is a concern. But to get Oshie in under $6 million per season the Capitals had to bite on the term. He would have come in at a higher cap charge, at least $1 million more, in my opinion, had they signed him to a four-year contract or a five-year contract. The Capitals need the cap savings to continue to build their roster now. His term is going to be a problem, but not for at least four or five years in a perfect world. At that time the business side of the game could look completely different. The Capitals had to think about now, which is why in the end I understand and like Oshie's contract.

If Canadiens won’t pay up for Radulov, several others may be more than willing

By: Jared Clinton Jun 27, 2017

Alexander Radulov Author: Andrew Dieb/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Alexander Radulov and the Montreal Canadiens still haven’t come to terms on a new deal, and if nothing is in place by July 1, Radulov could become the most highly sought after free agent forward on the market.

The Montreal Canadiens have a difficult situation on their hands when it comes to Alexander Radulov.

You see, the Canadiens want to keep Radulov, 30, around in Montreal, and with good reason. This past season, which happened to be Radulov’s first foray back into the NHL since 2011-12 and his first full campaign in the league since the 2007-08 campaign, was an excellent one as far as adjustments to the NHL go. The Russian winger found almost instant chemistry with several of his linemates, was a consistent producer, put up 18 goals and 54 points in 76 games and gave Montreal that one additional scoring threat

that they so desperately needed. But a performance like that comes with a price — and it’s a price the Canadiens may not be willing to pay.

There’s no knowing what exactly Radulov is asking for, but reports, including one from TSN’s Pierre LeBrun, seem to indicate that Radulov could be looking to cash in on free agency with a long-term deal that could pay him up to $7 million per season. Of course, asking price and actual price can be two different things, but that Radulov is apparently to be compensated well above the $5.75 million he made this past season could mean it’s a no-can-do for the Canadiens.

One major reason why is Montreal simply doesn’t have the cap space. At his past cap hit, the Canadiens could make a Radulov deal work, but Montreal is heading into this summer facing the prospect of new contracts for two key players in Alexander Galchenyuk and Andrei Markov. So, despite the Canadiens boasting upwards of $21 million in cap space, contracts for the two could leave Montreal with little money to bring back Radulov and bolster the rest of the roster. That’s

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not to mention there has to be some concern about the long-term impact of a potential six-or-more year deal with Radulov.

It’s not as if time is on the Canadiens’ side, either. In four days, on July 1, the free agency period will officially open, making Radulov free to sign with whatever team he chooses, be it Montreal or otherwise. And despite the reported asking price for Radulov, there is interest. TSN’s LeBrun noted Monday that Radulov has at the very least been contacted by 10 teams, and you can rest assured that a few of those clubs are well aware of — and willing to meet — Radulov’s contract ask.

So, it’s safe to say time might be running out for Montreal if they want to ensure Radulov remains a Canadien, and that could mean the four-time KHL MVP is heading elsewhere next season. If that’s the case, which teams could make a play for Radulov?

Carolina Hurricanes

Are the Hurricanes the most obvious choice for Radulov? Absolutely not. Matter of fact, Carolina likely falls further into the category of a dark horse than that of a no-brainer contender for Radulov’s services. Yet, there may be something awfully enticing about joining up with the Hurricanes as the franchise looks to take a step out of the league’s basement and up the standings.

The acquisition and signings of Scott Darling and Trevor van Riemsdyk were two great additions for the Hurricanes, and bulking up further on the blueline and in goal is one way for Carolina to get better almost overnight. The one thing Carolina could use on top of all that, though, is someone to come in and further ignite the attack. The Hurricanes ranked 20th with 212 goals for in 2016-17, but adding Radulov could be good for another 20 or so goals out of one player, not to mention his ability as a setup man.

Carolina has more than enough money to add, too. The Hurricanes have more than $24 million in cap space, and if GM Ron Francis wants to take a look at making a splash in free agency, he absolutely can.

Dallas Stars

Dallas’ biggest needs entering the off-season weren’t additions on offense. Truth be told, adding another scorer was probably the furthest thing from GM Jim Nill’s mind once the campaign ended. However, the Stars went out and solidified their awful situation in goal by adding netminder Ben Bishop, and then proceeded to add to their blueline, another area of concern, on Monday by acquiring Marc Methot. Dallas isn’t necessarily done adding elsewhere, but with Bishop and Methot on board, Nill can certainly think about his offense again.

And when he does so, maybe he considers Radulov. It may sound unthinkable and as though it couldn’t possibly work, but the money is actually there right now. Dallas has roughly $18.4 million in cap space and only a handful of RFA deals to worry about. When the RFA contracts are in place, there could still well north of $10 million for Nill to use on free agents. Radulov would certainly fit, too, especially if he the Stars want to load up with a Radulov, Tyler Seguin and Jamie Benn line.

There’s no doubt Dallas will want to avoid a $7 million cap hit, but the Stars could maybe bring Radulov in for less given

he’ll have a chance to compete for the Stanley Cup. And the money can work short-term with more than $16 million coming off the books following the 2017-18 campaign.

Florida Panthers

Panthers GM Dale Tallon made some changes to the club at the expansion draft, giving up offense by moving Jonathan Marchessault and Reilly Smith to the Vegas Golden Knights. That’s scoring that will need to be replaced and there aren’t many players who stand to match that production by their lonesome. Radulov is one player who may be able to do so, however. His 54-point campaign isn’t exactly point-per-game level, but Radulov on a line Jonathan Huberdeau and Aleksander Barkov could be absolutely lethal.

Like Carolina, the money is more than there, too. Florida enters the off-season with upwards of $20 million in cap space and the only signings that are musts at this point are those of RFAs Alex Petrovic and Mark Pysyk. The rest of the cap space can be allocated as the Panthers see fit.

Some may suggest that Florida won’t be willing to fork over the money for Radulov, but it’s hard to say that would be the case. The Panthers carried nearly $64 million in cap space at season’s end in 2016-17. Their current cap hit is nearly $10 million lower. Florida can afford to add, and Radulov could be a target.

New York Rangers

If Radulov wants a chance to make a big splash in a high-profile market, he could have that opportunity as a Broadway Blueshirt, and you can be sure the Rangers will be looking to add some scoring punch this summer. That’s especially true after shipping out Derek Stepan, who scored 17 goals and 55 points this past season, and failing to add anyone to replace him to this point in the off-season. One of the Rangers’ strengths this past season was offense — only three teams scored more — and New York won’t want to sacrifice that.

Adding Radulov would be one way to replace Stepan’s offense in a hurry, too. The two put up similar numbers this past season and Radulov is the more pure offensive talent. Put him to work on the power play or set him up alongside someone who can finish and Radulov could crack the 60-point plateau next season, no problem.

The one concern here, however, is if the money would be spent in the wrong place. Following the Stepan trade, the Rangers need some help down the middle. It’s not that Kevin Hayes and Mika Zibanejad aren’t talented, but there has to be some options up front. Right now, after Hayes and Zibanejad, Boo Nieves and Gabriel Fontaine are arguably third and fourth centers on the Rangers’ depth chart.

Vegas Golden Knights

Compared to the other teams on this list, the Golden Knights don’t have a lot of money to spend. In fact, they have the least, as they sit roughly $8.7 million under the spending ceiling. What the Golden Knights have working in their favor, though, is that their breadth of defensemen opens them up for a trade or two and the cap space that comes along with it. That could clear up just enough money to make sure Radulov fits safely, and quite possibly snugly, under the cap. The likes of Mikhail Grabovski and David Clarkson hitting the long-term injured reserve will also help the cap situation.

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Vegas would be an awfully interesting fit for Radulov, too. Sure, he’d have to give up the chance to win right away, but he would guarantee himself to be one of the go-to players for the Golden Knights for the next few seasons. Vegas needs offensive talent and Radulov fits the bill.

Radulov could also be the right player to come in and suit up alongside Vadim Shipachyov as he makes his transition to the NHL from the KHL. Shipachyov was a sought after free

agent who shocked the league by signing in Vegas, and giving him a somewhat familiar face to play with could go a long way in getting Shipachyov settled.

Finally, the long-term nature of a Radulov deal likely doesn’t pose a concern for the Golden Knights. Vegas’ projected cap hit for 2018-19? Less than $29 million. GM George McPhee will all the wiggle room under the cap that he can handle.

TODAY’S LINKS http://www.newsobserver.com/sports/nhl/carolina-hurricanes/article158391334.html#navlink=SecList http://www.newsobserver.com/sports/nhl/carolina-hurricanes/article158391334.html#navlink=SecList

https://www.canescountry.com/2017/6/28/15885142/storm-advisory-nhl-news-rumors-bret-hedican-st-cloud-state-carolina-hurricanes-defenseman-trade

https://www.nhl.com/news/dan-rosen-over-the-boards-mailbag-june-28/c-290186452 https://www.canescountry.com/2017/6/27/15879582/carolina-hurricanes-patrick-brown-jake-chelios-one-year-contract-extension-charlotte-checkers

http://www.thehockeynews.com/news/article/if-canadiens-won-t-pay-up-for-radulov-several-others-may-be-more-than-willing

1069512 Carolina Hurricanes


From staff reports


Chelios, 26, led the Charlotte Checkers defensemen in scoring in the 2016-17 season with a career-high 32 points. The Chicago native also established career bests in assists (28), plus/minus (+8) and shots on goal (152), serving as the Checkers alternate captain and team captain at various points throughout the season.


News Observer LOADED: 06.28.2017



BY CHIP ALEXANDER







What’s a jersey number worth? Canes players make a deal

BY CHIP ALEXANDER

It started, simply enough, with Derek Ryan being signed to a new contract.

Ryan, a center with the Carolina Hurricanes, agreed to a one-year contract Monday with the Canes and soon tweeted “Thanks for the opportunity” along with a tweetpic of his jersey – No. 33.

I'm excited to be going back to the @NHLCanes for another season. Thanks for the opportunity! pic.twitter.com/QOBVD8tsFm

— Derek Ryan (@DerekAllenRyan) June 26, 2017

Before long, Scott Darling chimed in.

The goalie, acquired by the Canes two months ago from the Chicago Blackhawks, offered up this tweet: “I’ll trade you 3 dinners, 2 dog walks and 1 night of babysitting for that number #ThinkAboutIt.”

Darling, you see, wore No. 33 for the Blackhawks.

Ryan, clearly in the spirit of things, quickly tweeted: “Oh this could get interesting! Make it 2 dinners, 1 whole foods gift card, and at least 2 goals allowed in every practice and we have a deal.”

CAROLINA HURRICANES


That’s a high asking price. But Darling thought about it.

I'll trade you 3 dinners, 2 dog walks and 1 night of babysitting for that number #ThinkAboutIt https://t.co/uLGPLI09d5

— Scott Darling (@SDarling_33) June 26, 2017

His tweet: “The best I can do is 1 dinner, 1 Whole Foods gift card and 3 goals per practice (pending league approval).”

That was enough, it seems.

Ryan: “Deal! #33 is yours. I'll draw up the paperwork and have my people call your people.”

[Finally, some net changes for Hurricanes – DeCock]

[Hurricanes, Derek Ryan agree to 1-year, $1.4 million deal]

As of Monday night, the Hurricanes’ roster still listed Derek Ryan as No. 33 – maybe the trade didn’t make it to Toronto in time to be official.

Deal! #33 is yours. I'll draw up the paperwork and have my people call your people.


But the dialogue continued.

Darling: “Pleasure to do business with you! But what number are you going to wear now?”

Ryan: “Good question! We can make a dramatic reveal on Twitter once I pick one.”




From staff reports


Chelios, 26, led the Charlotte Checkers defensemen in scoring in the 2016-17 season with a career-high 32 points. The Chicago native also established career bests in assists (28), plus/minus (+8) and shots on goal (152), serving as the Checkers alternate captain and team captain at various points throughout the season.


Herald-Sun LOADED: 06.28.2017



BY CHIP ALEXANDER







What’s a jersey number worth? Canes players make a deal

BY CHIP ALEXANDER

It started, simply enough, with Derek Ryan being signed to a new contract.

Ryan, a center with the Carolina Hurricanes, agreed to a one-year contract Monday with the Canes and soon tweeted “Thanks for the opportunity” along with a tweetpic of his jersey – No. 33.

I'm excited to be going back to the @NHLCanes for another season. Thanks for the opportunity! pic.twitter.com/QOBVD8tsFm


Before long, Scott Darling chimed in.

The goalie, acquired by the Canes two months ago from the Chicago Blackhawks, offered up this tweet: “I’ll trade you 3 dinners, 2 dog walks and 1 night of babysitting for that number #ThinkAboutIt.”

Darling, you see, wore No. 33 for the Blackhawks.

Ryan, clearly in the spirit of things, quickly tweeted: “Oh this could get interesting! Make it 2 dinners, 1 whole foods gift card, and at least 2 goals allowed in every practice and we have a deal.”

That’s a high asking price. But Darling thought about it.

I'll trade you 3 dinners, 2 dog walks and 1 night of babysitting for that number #ThinkAboutIt https://t.co/uLGPLI09d5

— Scott Darling (@SDarling_33) June 26, 2017

His tweet: “The best I can do is 1 dinner, 1 Whole Foods gift card and 3 goals per practice (pending league approval).”

That was enough, it seems.

Ryan: “Deal! #33 is yours. I'll draw up the paperwork and have my people call your people.”

[Finally, some net changes for Hurricanes – DeCock]

[Hurricanes, Derek Ryan agree to 1-year, $1.4 million deal]

As of Monday night, the Hurricanes’ roster still listed Derek Ryan as No. 33 – maybe the trade didn’t make it to Toronto in time to be official.

Deal! #33 is yours. I'll draw up the paperwork and have my people call your people.


But the dialogue continued.

Darling: “Pleasure to do business with you! But what number are you going to wear now?”

Ryan: “Good question! We can make a dramatic reveal on Twitter once I pick one.”


1069602 Websites

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Sportsnet.ca / 30 Thoughts: What is the trade value of a first-round pick?

Elliotte Friedman June 27, 2017, 2:22 PM

• Could Phaneuf end up with the LA Kings?

• Why Galchenyuk may stay in Montreal after all

• Where will Joe Thornton sign?

When the return on the Travis Hamonic trade came down — a first-round draft pick and two seconds — the immediate reaction was, “Good player for a big price.” That was my sense, although I’m of the thought that when your window opens, you take your risks. Calgary, like its beloved neighbour to the north, has a window that is opening.

The team has a chance to be really good. A legitimate contender.

Garth Snow and Brad Treliving grinded through this trade. When it was done, both looked like Arnold Schwarzenegger after the first day of school in Kindergarten Cop. Snow walked by the St. Louis table, where old friend Keith Tkachuk was standing, with a “Thank God it’s over” look on his face, as Tkachuk congratulated him on the return.

Obviously, the full impact of this trade won’t be felt for several years. The Flames are the absolute winners right now. They can come at Leon Draisaitl/Connor McDavid, or Brent Burns/Logan Couture, or Ryan Getzlaf/Ryan Kesler with Mark Giordano/Dougie Hamilton, or TJ Brodie/Hamonic.

Nashville will tell you that’s not a bad setup.

There are few guarantees in the draft, but you want the lottery tickets. They have fewer — particularly in what is seen as a deep 2018 offering — and, as one GM said, “You hate to tell your scouts they will have less of an impact.” But Calgary is deep in goaltending and defence prospects.

The Islanders now own more of those tickets. We don’t know if this means a trip to Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory, but they have options. They also have currency, and Snow told reporters he is definitely more willing to flip those picks than he normally would be. In a cap world, teams value draft picks, so he’s got something important.

One of the things I’m trying to learn more about is how to weigh the true price of draft picks. What is a first-round pick really worth? What is a second-round pick really worth? There is zero doubt this is what the Flames were researching as they chased this move. You never want to say, “Well, we won’t know for five years.” That’s not good enough. You want to have more than that, an idea of what you are risking.

Let’s assume you think Calgary is going to pick 20th-25th. You could go back into the last decade and find Claude Giroux and Max Pacioretty in that range. This decade, there are a couple of intriguing players: Anthony Mantha and Joel Eriksson-Ek. So, we’d sit there and say, “Well, this is who they could be giving up.”

There’s got to be a better way than that.

Boomer in the Morning

Friedman: gutsy Treliving not afraid to deal

Originally aired June 26 2017

In February 2015, Stephen Burtch wrote a story for the Sportsnet website: “Analyzing the Value of NHL Draft Picks”.

Among his conclusions: “We can see that the most significant value in NHL draft picks lies in the first three selections, and the largest drop-off in pick value occurs between picks three and four.” He also indicates that the value of first-round selections really falls as you go through the round. That decline continues throughout the draft. There are always outliers, but things stay pretty consistent.

He wrote this two years ago, but in following-up this week with a few others who’ve studied the draft (including a couple of people who work for clubs), not much has changed. The “top three theory” still holds.

Let’s take it a little further. The way people try to predict things is something called “expected value.” You try to place that value on each

choice. Here’s an example: a team defines what it would consider a successful selection. Is it 200 games? Is it a certain level of production? So let’s say the 10th overall pick, over the last 10 years, had six NHLers. You’re looking at a 60 per cent success rate. And those six, as a whole, averaged 0.5 points per game. Then you multiply 60 per cent with 0.5 and you’re left with an expected value of 0.3 for 10th overall. You compare that number to the other draft slots to see how it rates.

One person took it a little farther, to say that when you are getting multiple picks, like the Islanders did, you add together those numbers. That gives the Islanders a chance for something special — “between the third and fourth pick,” he said — but it would take Calgary being worse than we anticipate.

What does it all mean? It means that Snow has something else he’s trying to do, with a lot of bullets in his chamber. He probably went out Sunday and bought one of those “My favourite teams are the New York Islanders and whoever is playing Calgary” T-shirts.

And it means that if the Flames do what’s expected of them, everyone in southern Alberta will feel very good about the trade.

The Big Show

Travis Hamonic and Mike Smith join Rob Kerr

30 THOUGHTS

1. Snow and Toronto GM Lou Lamoriello had a seven-minute conversation on the draft floor prior to Round 1. As has been reported, the name James van Riemsdyk came up. The Islanders then asked for JVR and a first, which Toronto did not want to do. This all could have been moot if he was unwilling to waive to go there.

2. Corey Hirsch tweeted last week that Sean Burke will soon be announced as GM of Team Canada’s men’s hockey entry for the 2018 Winter Olympics. One of the top contenders for the coaching job — if not the number one choice — is Willie Desjardins.

3. Meanwhile, a firm policy on NHL players who wish to participate won’t be finalized until the summer. But there was discussion about it at the GM meetings, and managers sure had the impression that NHLers (and AHLers on two-way contracts) won’t be allowed to go.

4. Ottawa GM Pierre Dorion had a lengthy conversation with Los Angeles compatriot Rob Blake during the later rounds of the draft. There is one move that could make sense for both sides: Dustin Brown for Dion Phaneuf. Both have the same cash remaining — $25.5 million. Brown’s AAV is lower ($5.875 million to Phaneuf’s $7 million), but he has five years left on his contract to Phaneuf’s four. The Senator defenceman can go to Los Angeles, but I’m not sure if Brown’s list allows him to go to the Canadian capital.

5. He’s staying low profile — and there is serious doubt he actually wants to leave San Jose — but there is a list of teams who want to peer inside Joe Thornton’s head. At the draft, there was a lot of talk it would take a three-year deal to lure him. Potential suitors include Columbus, Los Angeles, Montreal and the Rangers. I could see Toronto having interest, but I’m not certain. There was a time Detroit appealed to him, but it doesn’t seem right now for either side. It looks like San Jose is closing in on extensions for Martin Jones and Marc-Edouard Vlasic (both can be announced on Saturday), so we’re all waiting to see what is left for Thornton and/or Patrick Marleau. I’m really fascinated by the Blue Jackets, who are going all-in over the next two years and will try something big. Toronto is quieter about its intentions, but don’t forget that Mike Babcock has plenty of Team Canada history with both Marleau and Thornton.

6. Do not be surprised, either, if Thornton brings up the possibility of Switzerland. His wife’s from there and he’s said he will play in that country before his career is over.

7. Sam Gagner makes a lot of sense as a right-handed power play option to replace Artemi Panarin in Chicago. He was dynamite with Columbus in that role. It is believed Vancouver also has interest in his services.

8. Sounds like Edmonton and the Islanders discussed a three-way deal involving Jordan Eberle and Ryan Strome before the deadline. Not sure the third team. Ultimately, they did it themselves.

9. Started to think more and more that Alex Galchenyuk will stay in Montreal. Just haven’t seen the market for him as much as we thought. Minnesota went hard after Jonathan Drouin and were disappointed to

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lose him, but, even with all the rumours, I don’t think they place the same value on Galchenyuk.

10. Jordan Weal’s going to get a chance to prove he can be this year’s Jonathan Marchessault.

11. Goalie market: there is a lot of expectation of Ryan Miller to Anaheim for approximately $1 million, although I’m not sure if bonuses will be added to that. It makes a lot of sense. Winnipeg has Eric Comrie in the AHL, but the Jets are looking for a veteran to pair with Connor Hellebuyck — which indicates Brian Elliott or Steve Mason. Los Angeles appears ready to have Jack Campbell as Jonathan Quick’s backup. And I think Mike Condon’s received a few calls, as teams weren’t sure he’d be available.

12. On the blue line: the Rangers and Brendan Smith appear headed towards a deal. I never really sensed Calgary and Michael Stone were that close, so he’s likely headed to the market. There seems to be quite a bit of interest in Trevor Daley. It’s believed at least two Canadian teams — Ottawa and Winnipeg — are looking at Dmitry Kulikov as a left-handed option. He played for Guy Boucher in junior, and there’s no way last year is a true indication of his play. Karl Alzner will be an interesting one. One team indicated the price may be between $4-$5 million, and that gives him more options. And a few teams are curious to see if Buffalo makes the biggest pitch for Kevin Shattenkirk.

13. I know we’ve been hammering Shattenkirk to the Rangers, but New York seems very determined to increase the roles and responsibilities of its young players. The draft-day trade with Arizona is excellent evidence of that.

14. It looks like Minnesota, Pittsburgh or retirement for Matt Cullen, but it would not be a shock if Buffalo called him. GM Jason Botterill knows him and he’d be an excellent fit. A centre who can teach and still play is never bad. Can see the Sabres looking at Brian Boyle for the same reason.

15. Low-key Matt Duchene possibility: Pittsburgh. The Penguins have circled around him before. Both Glen Sather and Phil Jackson (before he decided to ruin the Knicks) talked about adding new players to championship teams. You prevent a staleness, and if the newcomer is popular, the group rallies around them so they can win, too. Everyone’s frustrated: Colorado GM Joe Sakic, Duchene and agent Pat Brisson. Could Olli Maatta plus more pieces get the Penguins into this?

16. In the tumultuous pre-draft days for Arizona, there was a lot of conjecture about Oliver Ekman-Larsson’s future and happiness. Let’s put the brakes on that. Ekman-Larsson has two more years on his contract and everything the Coyotes are doing is about making him happy. He will be the captain. They consulted him on the Niklas Hjalmarsson trade. (In fact, ‘consulted’ might not be a strong enough word for the role Ekman-Larsson played.) After a crazy week with Shane Doan and Dave Tippett, the Coyotes stabilized their roster with Hjalmarsson, Antti Raanta and Derek Stepan. They needed veterans to ease the burden on their young players and got some. It’s a long road, but they are determined to begin the process. It’s all about keeping number 23.

17. On the Coyotes: It’s clear now NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman wanted one owner. So, the league backed Andrew Barroway and bought out the others. When there were reports John Chayka might interview in Buffalo, one source said, “My bet is he stays and Dave Tippett goes.” Reason? Big salary and Tippett didn’t see eye-to-eye with where they were going. I looked into it at the time and was told it wouldn’t happen because Arizona wouldn’t pay Tippett $4 million per season to sit on the sidelines. Obviously, I was clueless to what was bubbling underneath the surface. The NHL brokered a deal where Tippett left a significant amount of money on the table — around $10 million — to get out of a situation where no one was happy. A key: there is no “offset language,” so he gets his full settlement even if someone else hires him. Tippett told reporters, “It was time.” Yes, it was. You could see his frustration whenever you came across him. It’s time for a fresh start — for everyone.

18. The Coyotes are going to keep this search small. As we now know, Washington will not let anyone talk to Todd Reirden, but I wonder if Lane Lambert is a contender here — as he was last summer in Colorado. Todd Nelson is on the radar. Darren Pang always pitches Brad Shaw, a smart option who may be an interview possibility. But I’m not 100 per cent on that one.

19. Arizona’s trade for Stepan puts Martin Hanzal on the market. The Coyotes will not double-back.

20. Off the ice, this is a huge year for Arizona. Bettman and NBA Commissioner Adam Silver have taken the lead on a new arena from Barroway and Suns owner Robert Sarver, who is notoriously difficult. Can they get it done?

21. Joel Quenneville was at the draft Saturday after not appearing on Friday. He stormed out of a coach’s meeting — in full view of reporters — as news broke of the Chicago trades. It would have been very tough for him to lose Hjalmarsson, one of the NHL’s underappreciated great players. I’ll be the first to admit I haven’t watched a ton of Connor Murphy. Quenneville saw two defenders go out (Hjalmarsson and Trevor van Riemsdyk) and one come in on a blue line that already was thin. It’s why the Blackhawks are linked to Alzner.

22. Don’t think I’ve ever seen a draft before with no first-round timeouts. The nearest thing to a blockbuster I could sense was Vegas made a last try to get to three (Dallas) and then to one (New Jersey). But I don’t think it was ever close to happening.

23. The Blue Jackets must have been disappointed Vladislav Gavrikov signed a two-year deal in Russia as he was visiting North America. He was traded in the KHL from Lokomotiv to St. Petersburg, a much wealthier team. That country badly wanted him for the Olympics and are very happy to keep him. That is one reason Klim Kostin dropped to 31st in the draft, as teams are always wary of this. Evidently, the Blues got assurances it wouldn’t be a problem. Also, Kostin wants to play in the AHL, not juniors. Some teams preferred the opposite, but it clearly doesn’t bother St. Louis.

24. It was lost in all the Blackhawks’ trade excitement Friday morning, but the NHL and NHLPA joined together on an interesting project. They announced a partnership with the University of Illinois to evaluate adding hockey as a varsity sport. And, both agreed to fund up to five feasibility studies that would explore the potential of adding NCAA Division I men’s and women’s programs across the United States. “We’ve had three enquiries already,” said Mike Snee, executive director of College Hockey Inc. on Monday. “That’s quite a statement when the NHL and NHLPA see the opportunity for growth, whether it’s the chance to develop more high-end players or have more people watching. If you are an interested school or a potential donor, there really wasn’t a 1-800 number to call.”

25. I’m a big believer in growing the game, expanding it to unserviced areas or allowing lower-income families to embrace an expensive sport.

NCAA hockey is poised for growth, and the @NHL and @NHLPA are committed to helping: https://t.co/q03l6p5xVm pic.twitter.com/9n7jZckExW

— College Hockey Inc. (@collegehockey) June 23, 2017

What does Snee hope this initiative accomplishes? “The short aspirational answer is that many years from now, a lot more than 60 schools offering Division I hockey spread around the country. More people playing, coaching, reffing, enjoying hockey.” He talked about Alabama-Huntsville as an outlier. A successful program in an unconventional location. “That’s how you grow a hockey culture. We’d like to find 12 more Huntsvilles and have them fill in the NHL gaps nicely.” Snee grew up in Duluth, Minn., and loved the NCAA Bulldogs. “For me, it was more about the Bulldogs than the (NHL) North Stars. They got me into the game. I coached in the game, got kids in the game. There’s no NBA team in Kansas, but there are basketball fans because of (the Jayhawks). There’s no NFL team in Alabama, but they love their football. I don’t think Oklahoma or Alabama will ever have an NHL team, but let’s say you put a 4,200-seat arena in Oklahoma or Oregon — I’m certain it would work. Six-year-old girls and boys would tell their parents, ‘I want to play hockey.’”

26. Snee is optimistic this will lead to something tangible. “As excited as we were when Penn State occurred, one was not a trend. With the size of the gift and all that went with it, anyone would say, ‘We’ll add hockey if you give us $102 million.’ Arizona State occurred with less of a gift level. Two is not a trend but the start of one. Now with Illinois, you think you’re going somewhere. There’s always a little fear you don’t get five schools interested (in the study), but 72 hours later, I’m breathing a little easier.” Good luck. Success of this initiative benefits everyone.

27. Another thing that was discussed at the GM meetings: how players wear their visors. Don’t know if this will become a point of emphasis, but Leo Komarov’s is apparently too high.

28. My location on the floor put me next to the San Jose table. Nice moment when the Sharks drafted Mario Ferraro 49th from USHL Des

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Moines. He came to the table, where a full walkaround happened with firm handshakes, “thank yous,” “we’re glad to have yous,” and everyone looking everyone else in the eye. When I was younger, I was told I had a terrible handshake and didn’t look people in the eye when I did it. Some of that is ADD, but that shouldn’t be an excuse. I’m positive that wasn’t the only time it happened, but Ferraro and the Sharks was an example of the way that moment should go.

29. Almost as good as Jim Cornelison singing the anthem? Watching him practise it. He re-started it four or five times at the rehearsal. He puts so much into it I thought he was going to pass out. He said there are days he performs it five times at different requested appearances.

30. That is a fantastic Hall of Fame class. I’m pro-Alfredsson, pro-Zubov and pro-Cassie Campbell-Pascall, Jayna Hefford and Fran Rider on the women’s side. But how can you argue with any of those selections?

Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 06.28.2017

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Sportsnet.ca / NHL’s top 15 UFAs of 2017: Latest rumours, reports

Sean Reynolds and John Shannon talk about the big moves made by Calgary Flames GM Brad Treliving and the progress the team has made over the past few years.

Luke Fox

As hotly anticipated as the Kevin Shattenkirk Sweepstakes are for Kevin and the Shattenkirks, 2017’s NHL free agency class is shaping up to be one of the weakest in years, especially in light of Friday’s re-signing of T.J. Oshie, Patrick Eaves and Kris Russell.

Potential summer of ’17 UFA bank-breakers Jamie Benn, Victor Hedman, Brent Burns, and Brad Marchand all inked maximum-term extensions with their current clubs months before becoming eligible to test the market. Dallas and Carolina smartly got the jump on the UFA goalie class by trading for and locking up Ben Bishop and Scott Darling, well in advance of summertime.

And with big tickets like Connor McDavid, John Tavares and Carey Price also eligible to re-sign new deals on July 1, some of the upcoming “business of hockey” news will already be focused on the summer of 2018.

So, who’s left?

Well, the 2017 UFA class will still offer a compelling mix of top-four defencemen, a few goaltenders with No. 1 potential, and some wingers coming off stellar seasons.

Some of these stars will move on due to salary cap restraints, younger talent and decreased playoff hopes. Others will be retained at any cost (but, y’know, within reason) and subjected to rounds of Twitter rumours.

The Washington Capitals and San Jose Sharks, in particular, could lose some key veterans.

Here is a look at the NHL’s Top 15 unrestricted free agents of 2017, plus a list of the other household names whose next job is undetermined.

The negotiating window is open, and the rumours are flying.

More from Sportsnet

NHL's top 12 unrestricted free agents of 2018: A sneak peek

LUKE FOX

Toronto Maple Leafs 2017 free agency preview

LUKE FOX

1. Kevin Shattenkirk

Age on July 1, 2017: 28

Position: Defence

2016-17 salary cap hit: $4.25 million

Bargaining chips: U.S. Olympian. A top-four D-man on one of the league’s best blue lines. Power-play beast. Good for about 50 points if healthy.

The latest: NHL teams salivate over puck-moving defencemen under the age of 30, so expect Shattenkirk to knock his next contract out of the park. Think Keith Yandle’s seven-year, $44.45-million pact signed with the Panthers last year.

Shattenkirk (a “New Yorker at heart,” according to his Twitter bio) has been linked in rumours to the Rangers, who cleared space by buying out top-four D-man Dan Girardi.

After the Capitals were eliminated in the post-season, Shattenkirk told reporters he’s not ruling out re-signing with Washington but he’d like a prominent role on his next team. The Capitals expended most of their UFA budget on Oshie, so count them out.

“I know I’m not Shea Weber,” he said, “but I’ve kind of done it all before.”

The Rangers aren’t the only team interested. The Lightning, who already took a run at acquiring Shattenkirk via trade, have reportedly reached out to him this week.

The Sabres, Devils and Maple Leafs are three other clubs looking to upgrade their blue lines.

Shattenkirk will be shooting for the moon — seven years times $7 million? — so which GM will be willing to go deep here?

Lot of talk about NYR using space for Shattenkirk. They liked Yandle a lot, but were wary of term there. Someone like BUF makes more sense

— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) June 23, 2017

If chatter I'm hearing today is correct, I'd expect the #njdevils to be a finalist in #Shattenkirk sweepstakes. #NHLFreeAgency

— Jimmy Murphy (@MurphysLaw74) June 27, 2017

So while #tblightning reached out to pending UFA Kevin Shattenkirk, had yet to check in with Karl Alzner or Cody Franson. At least not yet

— Joe Smith (@TBTimes_JSmith) June 26, 2017

2. Alexander Radulov

Age on July 1, 2017: 30

Position: Right wing


Bargaining chips: A big body that provides a critical scoring punch to a Habs roster that needs it. Finished second only to captain Max Pacioretty in points, with 54. Led all Canadiens with 36 assists. Fan favourite.

The latest: A matured and well-compensated Radulov returned to North America for the first time since 2012 on a one-year, prove-it deal. He will earn a multi-year contract, though in light of the Jonathan Drouin trade-and-sign, it’s no gaurantee it’ll be with Montreal.

Radulov denied asking for an eight-year (maximum) contract extension on March 17 but is looking for more term and dollars than the Habs wish to commit.

“We have limits,” GM Marc Bergevin told reporters at the draft regarding the Radulov negotiations. “We talked prior, didn’t amount to anything.”

Bergevin agrees it's a possibility he would trade Radulov's rights if they don't have a deal in place before July 1. Won't discuss negos.

— Eric Engels (@EricEngels) June 22, 2017

Been told the highest offer made to Radulov was 3 years. @PierreVLeBrun reported he asked for 6 years at $7M.


Heard Radulov isn't interested to stay in Montreal if he has to take anything under three years.

— Aivis Kalniņš (@A_Kalnins) June 18, 2017

“I would love to stay here. I like it here. I love the fans,” Radulov told Sportsnet’s Eric Engels during the season.

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“The people are nice, they’re not mean to me. Even when we lose some games, or when I wasn’t scoring for nine games before, people weren’t hard on me because they see how hard I’m working and trying.”

Radulov certainly has Weber’s endorsement:

3. Martin Hanzal

Age on July 1, 2017: 30

Position: Centre


Bargaining chips: A big top-two pivot (six-foot-six, 226 lb.) who creates plays and provides a threat on the power play. Free agent centres with first-line experience aged 30 and under are nearly impossible to find.

The latest: The Coyotes dealt Hanzal to an all-in Minnesota Wild club at the trade deadline, but the high-priced rental was just OK with his new team down the stretch and scored only once in the playoffs. A shortage of free-agent centremen, however, will help his efforts to land a raise and a multi-year commitment.

Expect Montreal, Chicago and Nashville to inquire. Re-signing with cap-tight Minnesota is a non-starter, with RFAs Mikael Granlund and Nino Niederreiter needing raises.

“I thought Martin did a good job for us and brought exactly what we thought he would in terms of faceoffs and size and playing hard through the middle,” Wild GM Chuck Fletcher said. “He was impactful and certainly made us deeper through the middle. He was a good pickup for us.”

4. Karl Alzner

Age on July 1, 2017: 28

Position: Defence


Bargaining chips: Durable top-four, stay-at-home defenceman on a good team for a relatively low wage. Hasn’t missed a regular-season game since becoming a full-time Capital in 2010. Excellent penalty killer. Broke NHL’s longstanding sunglasses barrier.

The latest: Changes to the Capitals roster are inevitable. Washington is a, um, cap team, but a handful of regulars — Alzner included — will be looking for raises they won’t find at home.

Evgeny Kuznetsov (RFA) should grab the biggest slice of pie, but is there room to keep the defensively responsible Alzer and the younger Dmitry Orlov (RFA again)? GM Brian MacLellan is one record saying he won’t be buying out the pricey Brooks Orpik, 36, whose lack of foot speed is becoming noticeable.

Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos reported in the winter that Alzner was asking for $5.5 to $6 million per season from Washington in light of the hefty Brent Burns extension.

The Maple Leafs, Canadiens, Canucks, Golden Knights and Stars are all clubs that could be interested.

Alzner broke his right hand blocking a shot against the Leafs in Round 1 of the playoffs and won’t need surgery. He said he’s open to re-signing in Washington but sounds like a man prepared to move on.

“This is a pretty good window that we had here, and unfortunately it’s not there anymore,” Alzner told reporters in May.

Quick summary: Alzner tells Chaumont he's interested in signing with Habs, wants long term deal, talks with Caps essentially dead right now https://t.co/xnUvkhEnUN

— Аrpon Basu (@ArponBasu) June 27, 2017

Have learned the #Canucks have called the agent for D Karl Alzner and F Jordan Weal. Both local products.

— Rick Dhaliwal (@DhaliwalSports) June 25, 2017

5. Joe Thornton

Age on July 1, 2017: 37

Position: Centre


Bargaining chips: Slam-dunk Hall of Famer. One of the greatest passers to ever pick up a hockey stick. World Cup champion and Stanley Cup finalist. Dope beard. Our pick for the 101st greatest player of all time.

The latest: The love affair between Jumbo Joe and San Jose should continue, perhaps at the expense of fellow UFA forward Patrick Marleau. It’s just too hard to imagine him elsewhere.

Even after having his captaincy stripped, the man is comfortable playing where he is, thank you. Expect a short-term, bonus-laden deal with a full no-move clause at a reasonable rate, perhaps in the $4.5-million range. Another 50-point season and an incredible 43 assists (easily tops in this UFA class) say Thornton is still worth the big bucks, even though his goal total was alarmingly low (seven, and a few were empty-netters).

The catch here is that San Jose should place a priority on extending 2018 UFAs Marc-Edouard Vlasic and Martin Jones before fitting in Thornton and Marleau — and they could likely make more money elsewhere.

A trooper of the highest order, Thornton battled through playoff games despite needing surgery on his ACL and MCL.

No extension talks were held in-season, but upon the Sharks’ elimination, Thornton said he wants to remain in San Jose and sees the Sharks as a Stanley Cup–calibre club.

“There’s no hurry [to re-sign], but yeah, I want to be back,” Thornton said (watch below).

Pierre LeBrun reported in January that Thornton was looking for a three-year deal but that the Sharks would prefer to go year-to-year. Settle on two?

Joe Thornton has received interest from all sorts of teams, from Cup contenders to some of the standing's bottom feeders. A lot of interest.

— David Pagnotta (@TheFourthPeriod) June 26, 2017

6. Michael Stone

Age on July 1, 2017: 27

Position: Defence

2016-17 salary cap hit: $4 million

Bargaining chips: Right shot. Top-four minutes. Well under 30 years old. Should provide good value with his low name recognition.

The latest: Traded from lottery-bound Arizona to the Flames as a deadline rental, Stone said he liked the fit in Calgary.

Until the Travis Hamonic trade, Stone was definitely a candidate for re-signing.

“It’s a great place for me and my family, and I think it’s a good situation with the team,” Stone told the Calgary Sun. “The guys are awesome, and it’s going to be a good team. We have some young players that are going to turn into some stars in this league. It’s something that you should want to be a part of.”

While Flames GM Brad Treliving says he’s open to bringing Stone back, logic dictates he’ll get more ice time and money elsewhere.

If Edm is looking for extra veteran D, pickings slim for cheap guy. Would they have interest in Calgary's Michael Stone, who shoots right?

— Jim Matheson (@NHLbyMatty) June 26, 2017

Garrioch mentions Michael Stone (RD) and Karl Alzner (29 in Sept., bad numbers on good team guy, likely $$$) as possibilities for Sens. Pass

— The 6th Sens (@6thSens) June 26, 2017

7. Sam Gagner

Age on July 1, 2017: 27

Position: Centre

2016-17 salary cap hit: $650,000

Bargaining chips: Incredible production for low cost. Coming off first career 50-point season. Tied career high with 18 goals.

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The latest: One of the best bargains in the NHL, the versatile Gagner boosted the Columbus power play and is deserving of a significant raise and a multi-year deal after signing a one-year contract for peanuts (relatively speaking) as a UFA last summer.

Upon the Jackets’ playoff elimination, Gagner told The Dispatch his representatives have had preliminary talks with the club about a new deal.

“I thought it was a good fit,” Gagner said. “It’s a team that’s on the rise, and as the year went on I felt like more and more a part of things and a big part of things. Yeah, I’d like to come back, but we’ll see where things go.”

If he decides to move on, Gagner could improve most teams’ power play and third line five-on-five. The Canucks have reportedly inquired.

Been told for the 2nd straight summer, the #Canucks are expressing interest in Sam Gagner.


The season is over too early, but I want to say thanks to all of the @BlueJacketsNHL fans for being so supportive all year! #CBJ

— Sam Gagner (@89SGagner) April 23, 2017

8. Justin Williams

Age on July 1, 2017: 35



Bargaining chips: Mr. Game 7. A confident leader who’s survived hockey’s good, bad and ugly. Production rebounded in Washington with back-to-back 20-goal seasons.

The latest: The veteran Williams was a stellar fit on Washington’s second line, averaging 50 points over two seasons in D.C., and he chipped in 16 points in 25 playoff games there.

Like all Capitals UFAs, Williams said he would like to return, then added: “Saying something doesn’t mean it’s going to happen.”

Changes are coming, and what contender wouldn’t want to add Williams in 2017-18?

Williams will reportedly meet with Caps management this week. If he leaves, Nashville, St. Louis and Toronto are three of many teams that should take a look.

Whoa, this quote from Justin Williams: "I wanted to be celebrating with a trophy, but now my memories of this team here are disappointing."

— Katie Brown (@katiebhockey) May 12, 2017

Spoke to one exec on draft floor (not Caps) on Oshie deal "hurts Justin Williams return. Heard they were trying to find $ to bring him back"

— Dennis Bernstein (@DennisTFP) June 23, 2017

What an amazing trip to Scotland! Thx to my @Capitals mates for sending me#tripofalifetime pic.twitter.com/TOINv4sFtj

— Justin Williams (@JustinWilliams) June 24, 2017

9. Radim Vrbata

Age on July 1, 2017: 36



Bargaining chips: Another 20-goal campaign proves he can put the puck in the net. Excellent shootout man. Has already lowered salary expectations. Skates 17 minutes a night.

The latest: A brilliant summer pickup, Vrbata surprisingly went unmoved at the trade deadline despite reported interest from teams such as Boston, Ottawa and Florida. The only remaining members of the 2017 UFA class to put up more points this past season? Shattenkirk.

Vrbata has spent the bulk of his career in the desert, so there’s a chance he re-signs with more term and dollars. “This is where we want to be as a

family. This is where I want to be as a player,” Vrbata said at season’s end.

A candidate worth exploring for Boston, Ottawa, Carolina and St. Louis if he doesn’t re-up with Arizona.

UFA RW Radim Vrbata still a possibility for AZ. Vrbata camp wants clarity by July 1. Will consider other offers this time rather than wait.

— Craig Morgan (@craigsmorgan) June 27, 2017

10. Patrick Marleau

Age on July 1, 2017: 37

Position: Left wing


Bargaining chips: Cagey veteran who will hit the 1,500-game mark next season. Member of the 500 Goal Club. Stays healthy and important. Scored more goals this season (27) than in previous two.

The latest: With a good chunk of San Jose’s young forwards Melker Karlsson and Joonas Donskoi receiving pay bumps, it may be difficult for GM Doug Wilson to keep both Thornton and Marleau in teal.

Marleau requested a trade in the past, but has excelled at age 37. Hard to imagine him with another team; also hard to imagine another big-money commitment from San Jose. Wilson says any contract talks with Marleau and Thornton will remain private, and Marleau said he’d prefer a multi-year deal.

Several teams have reportedly reached out already.

“I still feel like I got another, at least, five good years in me,” Marleau said. “Maybe more.”

Marleau scored in each of the Sharks’ final three playoff games despite playing with a broken thumb.

“I love those guys,” teammate Logan Couture said of Thornton and Marleau. “They play hard. If you guys only knew what they play through. The respect level that I have for those two guys is just through the roof.”

Got a chance to speak with Pete DeBoer, who seems just as unsure about futures of Thornton/Marleau as everyone else I’ve talked to

— Kevin Kurz (@KKurzNBCS) June 24, 2017

SHARKS EXIT INTERVIEW: Patrick Marleau – "Five good years in me."#sjsharks pic.twitter.com/MDxZhQGyi3

— NBCS Sharks News (@NBCSSharks) April 27, 2017

11. Andrei Markov

Age on July 1, 2017: 38

Position: Defence


Bargaining chips: A top-pair defenceman since forever. Completed his 11th NHL season scoring between 30 and 64 points.

What the future holds: Yes, Markov is old. But he still ranks second among all impending UFA D-men in points (36) and time on ice (21:50). He’s old but fit. We see no reason why the franchise that drafted him nearly 20 years ago wouldn’t re-sign him to a one- or two-year extension to help ease the development of Montreal’s young defencemen.

Markov expressed a desire to stay in Montreal “for the rest of my life” on garbage-bag day, and Bergevin said he has no plans to blow the team up. Good bet he re-signs.

TVA’s Renaud Lavoie reported over draft weekend that Markov is looking for a two-year commitment fro the Habs, who cannot afford to let another D-man walk this month.

According to as source, Andrei Markov is looking for a 2 years contract / $12M total ($6M per season) #tvasports

— Renaud Lavoie (@renlavoietva) June 27, 2017

Andrei Markov always said he wanted to stay with the Canadien but wants a 2 year deal. #tvasports

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12. Ryan Miller

Age on July 1, 2017: 36

Position: Goaltender


Bargaining chips: Consistent resume as a proven No. 1 goalie: 709 games, 358 wins, 39 shutouts. Posted a .914 save percentage behind one of the NHL’s weaker blue lines this year.

The latest: The Canucks and Miller are in talks, keeping the door open for an extension. Miller was reportedly not interested in a deadline move to Alberta.

If a deal in Vancouver can’t be worked out, a few other teams — such as Philadelphia, Buffalo, and Winnipeg — could look to add a goaltender.

GM Jim Benning would rather sign Miller to a one-year contract, according to Sportsnet’s Iain MacIntyre, bridging the gap for Jacob Markstrom to emerge as a bona fide starter.

The #Canucks are still trying to sign Ryan Miller. They have not turned to plan B on the market yet.


Thank you @Canucks fans. Have a great summer in your beautiful city.

— Ryan Miller (@RyanMiller3039) April 13, 2017

13. Michael Del Zotto

Age on July 1, 2017: 27

Position: Defence


Bargaining chips: Skates 19:30 a night. Proven defencemen this young are few and far between. May still have another 40-point season in him.

The latest: Some nights Del Zotto looked like one of the best Flyers on the ice; other times he was scratched. Consistency is an issue here, but the Ontario native will surely get some looks. He can move the puck.

Though he kept Del Zotto at the deadline, GM Ron Hextall reportedly told the defenceman that the Flyers will be moving on to give younger players more ice time. Another down year offensively (five goals, 18 points) and the fact he’s been a minus player five years running could spell a pay cut.

Potential fits: Edmonton, Boston, and Pittsburgh.

MDZ said Hexy thanked him for his time and told him the organization is going younger on the back end. Said it was a "treat" to play here.

— Sam Carchidi (@BroadStBull) April 11, 2017

Del Zotto could be a ton of fun, but the play in his own zone worries me. #Habs pic.twitter.com/5phU3tgrBe

— Ian (@BoisvertIan) June 25, 2017

Weekend morning core. #abs #coreworkout #gym @studiolagree

A post shared by Michael Del Zotto (@mdzofficial) on May 13, 2017 at 3:28pm PDT

14. Thomas Vanek

Age on July 1, 2017: 33



Bargaining chips: Nine-time 20-goal guy. Easily one of the most productive offensive players on the open market. Accustomed to changing teams. Can play both wings and boost your power play.

The latest: A strong showing on a bad Red Wings team earned Vanek a trade to Florida, only to see him score twice through 20 games as a Panther, although he did have eight assists. This has rental written all over it, as the Panthers have a good young core of forwards and are unlikely to outbid others to keep Vanek next season.

Would be surprised to see any team go long term here, but Vanek’s scoring touch should earn him another shot in the league. The Red Wings didn’t rule out bringing him back when he was rented to Florida.

Controversial #FlaPanthers opinion: I’d be okay with signing Vanek to a one year, $1m/1.1m, incentive laden contract for next year.

— Javi Alonso (@Javs42) March 8, 2017

15. Brian Elliott

Age on July 1, 2017: 32



Bargaining chips: An NHL-best .930 save percentage in 2015-16, followed by an excellent post-season that got the Blues over the hump and won the veteran goalie a No. 1 job in Calgary. Bounced back from a slow start to help position Calgary for the playoffs.

The latest: After the Anaheim Ducks swept the Flames in Round 1 of the playoffs (Elliott’s save percentage in that series: .880), Calgary made Mike Smith its new starter and cut ties with Elliott.

Determined to prove his critics wrong, Elliott wants one of the limited No. 1 gigs still open for debate. Multiple reports have linked him with the Winnipeg Jets, where he’d be a smart choice to take some of the load off young Connor Hellebuyck.

FWIW, Brian Elliott's agent says there's a number of teams interested in his client's services. Says he can't comment if #NHLJets are one.

— Scott Billeck (@ScottBilleck) June 26, 2017

As of now the #Canucks have not called the agents for goalies Brian Elliott, Chad Johnson or Steve Mason. Are they close with Ryan Miler?.


Other notable UFAs in 2017: Dmitry Kulikov, Shane Doan, Dan Girardi, Jaromir Jagr, Brian Gionta, Steve Mason, Mike Fisher, Ales Hemsky, Trevor Daley, Brian Campbell, Chris Kunitz, Jonathan Bernier, Jarome Iginla, Patrick Sharp, Ron Hainsey, Mark Streit, Cody Franson, Chad Johnson, Darcy Kuemper, Drew Stafford, Nick Bonino, Kris Versteeg, Johnny Oduya, Brendan Smith, Antti Niemi, Nail Yakupov


1069604 Websites

Sportsnet.ca / Toronto Maple Leafs 2017 free agency preview

Luke Fox

An offhand comment made mid-season by Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Mike Babcock — who, in our opinion, holds more front-office sway than any other NHL bench boss — stuck with us.

Babcock was explaining how Leafs draft guru Mark Hunter likes himself a good winger.

“Me? I like centres and D,” Babcock said. “So we’ll need to fix that.”

More from Sportsnet

Edmonton Oilers sign Zack Kassian to three-year contract extension

SPORTSNET STAFF

Winnipeg Jets 2017 free agency preview

RORY BOYLEN

Yes, the Leafs went heavy on D at the ’17 draft and already inked left-shot Swedish prospects Calle Rosen and Andreas Borgman to entry-level deals, but they’re not done shoring up a mediocre blue line.

“If we can improve our defence, that’s something we’re certainly going to do,” GM Lou Lamoriello told reporters at the draft. “It’s obvious we want

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to get somebody to make us better, but we’d be happy with the people we have.”

Centres and D — Toronto will be fixing to chase some in trade or free agency, and the club has the cap space to do it.

SALARY-CAP BREAKDOWN

Forwards: $35.66 million

Defence: $17 million

Goaltenders: $5 million

Total: $60.95 million ($14.05 million cap space)

AREAS OF NEED

Top-four defenceman: In terms of both contract years and dollar values, three quarters of the Maple Leafs’ top two defence pairings appear locked in stone with speedy, talented blueliners in their mid-20s; Morgan Rielly, Nikita Zaitsev and Jake Gardiner are on the books for a minimum of two more years at $4.05 million to $5 million each. While Toronto has already pillaged the Swedish league and the draft this off-season to complement that trio, this roster needs a proven right shot who’s ready now. Which is why the Leafs have been poking around Travis Hamonic, Chris Tanev and others in the trade market and will consider the best UFAs available here.

Fourth-line centre: Ben Smith ain’t cutting it, and Massachusetts native Brian Boyle (a nice deadline rental) is more likely to end up making more money elsewhere. Boyle said this week he’s looking at a return to Tampa as a “huge option.” A few face-off-winning, penalty-killing veteran pivots will be available this summer, and we’d be shocked if Toronto doesn’t add one.

Backup goaltender: “Right now we do not have a backup goaltender, and that’s a hole certainly we have to fill,” Lamoriello told reporters at the draft.

Marlies Antoine Bibeau and Garret Sparks (both 23-year-old RFAs) are not considered ready for regular No. 2 duty on a playoff team, and journeyman backup Curtis McElhinney (UFA) is OK but should be upgraded. The goalie carousel is not done spinning. Don’t expect Lamoriello to make the same mistake as last summer, when the GM signed Jhonas Enroth as almost a last resort a couple weeks before training camp. (Update: Bibeau was not qualified by the Leafs and will become a UFA.)

Joe Bowen on Toronto's new direction


POTENTIAL TARGETS

Kevin Shattenkirk: The Leafs were said to be poking around Shattenkirk as a trade-deadline rental before he moved from St. Louis to Washington. Count the Capitals, who blew their wad of dough on T.J. Oshie, out on the Shattenkirk sweepstakes. The right-shot power-play beast will demand a pretty penny, and the Rangers and Devils are the presumed front-runners, but the Leafs should at least inquire before looking at cheaper Plan B options like Cody Franson, Michael Stone, Dan Girardi, Karl Alzner or their own Matt Hunwick.

Mike Fisher: “I love playing the game, I love being around the guys,” Nashville Predators captain Fisher said after losing in the Cup Final. “At the end of the day, this is a game. It’s an important part of my life but it’s not everything. There’s other decisions and other people involved. For me it’s faith, family and then hockey.”

Fisher, 37, is contemplating retirement and tearing him away from Music City might be near-impossible, but the Preds could have cap issues when by the time they re-sign Ryan Johansen and Viktor Arvidsson, and Fisher — who grew up in nearby Peterborough, Ont. — would be the perfect depth centre in Toronto for a one-year stab at the Cup.

Other centre options: Joe Thornton, Nick Bonino, Dominic Moore, Jay McClement.

Brian Elliott: Determined to prove himself after losing the No. 1 job in Calgary to Mike Smith, Elliott is arguably the best UFA goalie out there. He’d have a much better chance at becoming a starter in Winnipeg or Philadelphia, but if he’s forced to resign himself to backup duty, the Newmarket, Ont., native would give the Leafs one of the NHL’s best

tandems. Other backup options: Steve Mason, Darcy Kuemper, Chad Johnson, Mike Condon, Anders Nilsson.

RECENT FREE-AGENT ACQUISITIONS

Matt Martin, $10 million, four years in 2016: Much derided by the analytics community and fans who generally enjoy seeing forwards score goals, Martin rapidly became a valued fixture of the Maple Leafs’ fourth line despite contributing a paltry five goals and four assists over 82 games. He’s beloved by his young teammates and doesn’t know the meaning of flinch. Babcock hated seeing his team getting pushed around in 2015-16, so in steps Martin with 13 fights in 2016-17 — a five-year high for the former New York Islander. A crasher/banger/scrapper/dressing-room guy who knows his role and is respected for it.

Jhonas Enroth, $750,000, one year in 2016: A disaster. The Maple Leafs missed out on the Great Backup Goalie Rush of July 1, 2016 (though they did take a run at Chad Johnson) and ended up signing the passed-over Enroth in late August. The 5-foot-10, 171-pound Swede was exclusively given the bitter end of back-to-backs but never gained Babcock’s trust. After an .872 save percentage and zero wins in four appearances, Enroth was waived and later traded to the Ducks for a seventh-round pick. He put up nice numbers as a San Diego Gull and hopes to work his way back into the bigs.

Roman Polak, $2.25 million, one year in 2016: The ’16 Leafs rented the lovable, indestructible Czech defenceman to the Sharks for their run to the Cup final, then signed him as a UFA. Though not the fleetest of foot, Polak plays a simple, hard-nosed brand of defence that endears the 600-game vet to his coach and teammates. The third-pairing right shot says he’d love to rejoin the Leafs for 2017–18 and expects the lower-body injury he suffered in Round 1’s playoff series against the Capitals to be completely healed for puck drop. But Toronto will have a bunch of young, new bodies vying for that third pair in camp.


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Sportsnet.ca / Vegas GM McPhee talks Methot trade, prospects, ongoing talks

The general manager of the Vegas Golden Knights, George McPhee joins Prime Time Sports to discuss a hectic week behind the scenes with the expansion draft and NHL entry draft.

Emily Sadler

Vegas Golden Knights general manager George McPhee is a man of his word.

He told reporters ahead of last week’s NHL Expansion Draft that he and his team would be selecting plenty of defencemen with the intent of flipping them in trades, and so far he’s been doing just that.

The brand new club picked up 15 rearguards during the expansion process, and has already dealt away three.

The latest — and biggest — name so far is Marc Methot, who was traded to Dallas on Monday.

McPhee described the thought process that went into the trade during an interview on Prime Time Sports on Tuesday, saying it was a tough call to trade away someone with that kind of valuable experience.

“That was not easy,” McPhee said. “He’d be the perfect guy to play with some of the young defencemen that we have: [Shea] Theodore, [Colin] Miller, [Nate] Schmidt, players like that, [Griffin] Reinhart, we’ve got a bunch of young ones. We ended up having too many players.”

Prime Time Sports

McPhee: Trading Methot "Was Not Easy"


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McPhee explained that he and the rest of his staff were also hoping to focus on acquiring more goalies via expansion, but weren’t able to.

“Interestingly enough, when we went through the draft, we were looking for those young goalies that maybe we could claim and still get through waivers and have develop in the American league but they weren’t there. Most of those players were exempt,” he said. “We thought we’d be able to get five goalies, two at the NHL level and three working their way up in the minors, but that wasn’t there to do. So we loaded up on defencemen and we had to move some of them.”

Vegas also traded Trevor van Riemsdyk to the Carolina Hurricanes and dealt David Schlemko to the Montreal Canadiens. Both transactions saw draft picks sent to the desert in return.

Of course, the Golden Knights added a goalie to the system with the Methot trade, sending the former Ottawa Senators D-man to the Dallas Stars on Monday in exchange for a second-round draft pick in 2020 and goaltending prospect Dylan Ferguson, a seventh-round pick at this year’s entry draft.

Ferguson is the third prospect goalie acquired by Vegas since Saturday, joining:

Maksim Zhukov

Jiri Patera

— Vegas Golden Knights (@GoldenKnights) June 27, 2017

What an interesting couple days. Thanks to @DallasStars again for the opportunity. So excited to be a apart of @GoldenKnights. #GoKnights

— Dylan Ferguson (@dferg_98) June 27, 2017

At this point, McPhee is keeping his focus on youth and developing — or at least assessing — what he’s got right now.

“What was most important in my mind was to be able to play these young guys — again, Reinhart, Miller and Schmidt, and some of these young players — and see what they can do, because Reinhart hasn’t proven himself yet, Schmidt looks like he’s on the cusp, Miller needs more ice time, Theodore needs to play, so now is the time to find out if they can do it in these first couple of years,” he said. “And we do have veterans that can play with them, whether it’s [Jason] Garrison or [Deryk] Engelland or [Brayden] McNabb.”

As for Methot, McPhee said it was “not an easy transaction,” but acknowledged that the timing was right.

“We don’t really have cap issues, but we did have too many players,” he said. “And as you know, if you don’t move them now, good luck trying to move them after July 4 or 5 because at that point, everything locks up, there’s no liquidity, and people can’t take anyone. So we made our move.”

McPhee also talked about player development, ongoing trade talks, and the fine art of landing a franchise player. Here are some excerpts:

On acquiring franchise players:

“Time will tell whether we can pull that off through the draft. We’ve tried to accumulate a lot of picks to be able to hit on one of those, and sometimes, you know, you get that guy in the second round — a Shea Weber, or something like that, or a Braden Holtby, who [Washington] got in the fourth round. So we’ll do our best to do it through the draft, if there’s another way to do it at some point we’ll try to do that as well.

“As we all know, those guys are the real difference-makers and if you can get those guys in the right positions, you can win. We’ve got our base now, I thought we had a really good draft and we’ve got a lot of picks going forward. That’s the plan, and I’ve got my fingers crossed that it’ll work.”

Mark It Down: On June 27, for the first time in team history, Golden Knights players skate on Vegas ice wearing our team's logo. pic.twitter.com/wy6d9IcY3N


On his philosophy when it comes developing young players:

“I am, in a lot of ways, conflicted on that right now because I always believed in, ‘take your time, send them back to junior or college and let them develop’ because that will never ruin them. What does ruin them is

if you put them in too early. That’s what I’m comfortable with, and will probably continue to go that way, but you know we’ve got a different generation of kids now. This millennial group is not patient. They don’t believe in going up on every rung of the ladder, that you have to hit every rung — they leapfrog things.

“They’re better players than we’ve ever had, they’re better informed, they have everything they need at their fingertips, either on their smartphone or laptop at home, to find out better ways to train, better ways to eat, better ways to mentally prepare, and that group is better prepared to play in the league than we’ve ever had.

“So while I may really want to take our time and do this right, what I believe is right, it may not be right with some of these kids. Some of these kids may come in and show us they’re ready to go.”

Get drafted in the first round on Friday, on the ice Tuesday. pic.twitter.com/BgNRSoaTO3


On any ongoing conversations with other teams:

“We have some deals that we’re still talking about. We came back right after the draft on Saturday night and we met Sunday morning and went through the day and were talking to teams. We knew we’d have to move some people and we wanted to get on it quick … we’ve got a couple more moves to make and then we’re in a good place.

“We’re still having lots of discussion and lots of people are calling. Everybody wants the younger, cheaper player, and we’re not prepared to do that at this point.”


1069606 Websites

Sportsnet.ca / Sidney Crosby on playing goal in NHL: ‘I’d love to get the nod’

Sonny Sachdeva

Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby has a decade’s worth of evidence to suggest he’s one of the greatest skaters to ever take the ice, but it seems “The Kid” nearly embarked on a very different path to the big leagues.

Crosby discussed this potential alternate NHL universe on Tuesday, joining The Dan Patrick Show to recall his love for manning the cage as a youngster.

“I wanted to be a goalie pretty early on,” Crosby told Patrick, adding he was dissuaded from suiting up in net because it simply wasn’t as fun. “It’s true. As a kid you’re not, as a goalie, really that involved. Everyone’s kind of chasing the puck, it’s going everywhere… It was something I probably liked more as a young kid though, definitely, with all the gear and things like that.”

The two-time scoring champion apparently even lobbied for a shot at donning his pads for the Penguins.

“There was one time either early this year or last year, we had to call an emergency goalie,” Crosby said. “One of our goalies got hurt and I think Flower was sick… so we had somebody in the lineup ready to go in as the third. I told them if anything ever happened, I’d love to get the nod.

“I’d love to play one game in the NHL [as a goaltender]. We’ll see. There’s still some time left if it ever came down to it.”

It wouldn’t be No. 87’s first time as a netminder in Penguins colours. The reigning Conn Smythe-winner played goal for the Penguins office staff’s dek hockey team in 2015, and celebrated his first Stanley Cup win by manning the net for a roller hockey game with friends.

Given the body of work he’s put together traversing the rest of the rink, it isn’t much of a stretch to think Crosby could’ve made some magic in net. It seems his signature hyper-competitive edge wouldn’t be any less

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prominent, given the centreman’s answer regarding his ideal breakaway matchup:

“Maybe (Pavel) Datsyuk, just because I feel like he’s made so many goalies look bad,” Crosby said. “If I could somehow find a way to get my pad on it or stop him… He seems like one of the best shootout guys that there was, so on a breakaway he’d be pretty good.”


1069607 Websites

Sportsnet.ca / Blue Jackets president: There’s interest in Ilya Kovalchuk

Sportsnet Staff

The Columbus Blue Jackets have interest in Russian forward and former NHLer Ilya Kovalchuk, according to team president John Davidson.

“I think there’s interest,” Davidson said during a guest spot on Prime Time Sports Tuesday afternoon on Sportsnet 590 The FAN. “I don’t know where it’s going to go.”

Kovalchuk scored 417 goals during an 11-year NHL career spent with the Atlanta Thrashers and New Jersey Devils. He signed a 15-year, $100-million deal with the Devils in 2010, but announced his retirement from the league three years later, stating a desire to return to Russia.

He’s since played five seasons with SKA St. Petersburg, but there have been recent reports that he’s considering a return to North America.

The Devils still hold his NHL rights, which means they could either sign the 34-year-old if he opts to return to the NHL, or conduct a sign-and-trade. Neither option can be done before July 1, but both will require full co-operation from both parties.

“I actually had a discussion with Jay Grossman, his agent, today and I told him we’ll be in discussions and Jarmo [Kekalainen] our general manager will be making the decisions,” said Davidson.

The Blue Jackets are coming off their most successful regular season in franchise history, winning 50 games and tallying 108 points. It’s been a busy off-season thus far for Davidson and Co. as the club recently acquired high-scoring winger Artemi Panarin from the Chicago Blackhawks in a trade for Brandon Saad.

“We’re looking at our team and there’s still trades to be made,” said Davidson. “There’s free agents to be signed. We’re trying to get better. We’re trying to fill certain holes. And we’ll figure it out.”


1069608 Websites

Sportsnet.ca / Calgary Flames 2017 free agency preview

Mike Johnston

Brad Treliving has been one of the busiest general managers so far this off-season, strengthening his Calgary Flames roster via trades. The team added Travis Hamonic to an already-stacked blue line in a trade with the New York Islanders one week after acquiring a starting goalie in the form of Mike Smith.

As a result of these two major moves, the Flames will in all likelihood remain relatively quiet when free agency opens. Calgary isn’t traditionally a big spender on July 1 to begin with and the Flames don’t have too many open roster spots to fill, especially at forward. Re-signing one or two of their own pending UFAs might end up being their top priority.

Sam Bennett, Micheal Ferland and Curtis Lazar were among nine players to receive qualifying offers Monday, while Alex Chiasson was one of three players who didn’t receive one.

The Flames have a decent amount of cap space to work with if they do choose to make a splash. Also, Mikael Backlund, Matt Stajan and Lance Bouma are entering the final year of their contracts so that’s nearly $9 million that can come off the books at the end of the year, which gives them some wiggle room long-term.

With the core of the team (read: Johnny Gaudreau, Sean Monahan, plus the top-four D and new goalie) locked in on reasonable contracts, any pieces the Flames add in free agency will be supporting characters.

SALARY CAP BREAKDOWN

Forwards: $32,362,500

Defence: $21,620,043

Goaltenders: $4,250,000

Total: $59,282,543 ($15.7 million cap space)

AREAS OF NEED

Backup goalie: Unless the team is banking on one of Jon Gillies or David Rittich (both of whom were tendered qualifying offers) making the jump up from the AHL in September, the team needs an NHL calibre backup. Chad Johnson was a serviceable No. 2 for the Flames this past season but he was shipped to the Coyotes in the Smith deal. He’s a UFA so maybe he signs with the Flames again, though he has expressed in recent interviews he’s interested in having a bigger role on a team, which might not work with Calgary now that Smith’s the man in town.

Third pair defence: With Hamonic joining Mark Giordano, Dougie Hamilton and T.J. Brodie, the Flames boast an elite top four. Matt Bartkowski and Oliver Kylington will be among those fighting it out for one of the final two spots on Calgary’s back end, but the Flames can also spend some money to address that void.

POTENTIAL TARGETS

Kris Versteeg: According to multiple reports, the Flames are one of at least 10 teams to have contacted Versteeg. The 31-year-old forward performed well in a third-line role on the Flames in 2016-17, scoring 15 goals and adding 22 assists in 69 games. He showed solid chemistry with Sam Bennett.

Michael Stone: Shortly after acquiring Hamonic, Treliving addressed the media where he remained open to the possibility of re-signing Stone.

“We’re still working away at it,” Treliving said. “We’re still working away at our team. Stoney came in and was a good fit for us.”

By all accounts Stone, who fit in nicely with the Flames as a rental player, wouldn’t mind staying in Calgary.

“It’s a great place for me and my family, and I think it’s a good situation with the team,” Stone said back in April. “I’ve really enjoyed my time here. The guys are awesome, and it’s going to be a good team. We have some young players that are going to turn into some stars in this league. It’s something that you should want to be a part of.”

Mike Condon: If Chad Johnson doesn’t return, Condon would be an ideal backup for Smith. He won’t cost what a Jonathan Bernier will yet he’s shown he’s capable of filling in as a starter. He ended up starting half of Ottawa’s regular-season games and kept the Sens afloat when Craig Anderson took a leave of absence to attend to a family matter.

Anders Nilsson: The tall Swede has bounced around from team to team throughout his professional career, suiting up for seven different clubs in three leagues (NHL, AHL, KHL) in the past four seasons alone. Like Condon, he is an inexpensive backup option. Nilsson had a .923 save percentage in 26 appearances with the Buffalo Sabres in 2016-17.

RECENT FREE AGENT ACQUISITIONS

Troy Brouwer, four years, $18 million in 2016: Brouwer’s first season in Calgary was less than stellar. He didn’t live up to the expectations that come with a $4.5-million cap hit. Statistically speaking it was the worst season of his NHL career so it’s no wonder he was left unprotected for the expansion draft.

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Michael Frolik, five years, $21.5 million in 2015: The Czech winger has been his steady self in his two years with the Flames. He will net you between 15-20 goals and he’s coming off a campaign in which he played every game, tied a career high with 27 assists and led all Flames forwards with 202 shots on goal.


1069609 Websites

Sportsnet.ca / Maple Leafs look to improve blue line in narrow defence market

Chris Johnston

TORONTO – Six weeks have passed since Mike Babcock made an appearance in the seats at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. Six weeks and there have been no further upgrades to his Toronto Maple Leafs blue line.

The Leafs suspected then what has become reality now: The price for a quality defenceman is awfully high.

Prohibitively high, in fact, although the search continues.

What Babcock saw when he watched Games 3 and 4 of the Predators-Anaheim Ducks series is two defence corps brimming with homegrown talent: Mattias Ekholm, Roman Josi, Ryan Ellis, Hampus Lindholm, Josh Manson, Cam Fowler, Sami Vatanen, Brandon Montour.

The only top-four defenceman on the ice acquired by trade was P.K. Subban and he came at the cost of Shea Weber. So, what was the lesson?

“You know, Tootsie’s is a great spot,” Babcock joked last week when asked about his decision to drop in on the Western Conference final. “Both teams had elite ‘D.’ We have lots of things on our team that are really good, there are some areas where we can improve. I think it’s important to see the best in all areas and so you know what you’ve got to get to on your team to be successful.

“So it was a good series to watch, that and I like country music.”

Mike Babcock @BrdgstoneArena tonight pic.twitter.com/OH4tqqmsWV

— Pete Weber (@PeteWeberSports) May 17, 2017

Internally, the Leafs are focused on taking incremental steps forward. There will be no wave of a wand to magically shore up the most glaring deficiency on a team with growing aspirations.

Toronto was in the middle of the Travis Hamonic trade talks during draft weekend, but couldn’t get the New York Islanders to bite on a package built around winger James van Riemsdyk. The Isles had some concerns about van Riemsdyk’s long-term health, according to sources, in addition to the fact he’s one year away from unrestricted free agency.

And so they shipped Hamonic to Calgary instead for three draft picks: A first and two seconds.

That further reduced the number of high-impact, right-shooting defencemen on a narrow trade market. The Leafs still have the option to revisit talks with Anaheim on Vatanen, or could perhaps try to get Chris Tanev out of Vancouver, but they’ll more likely settle for something less splashy.

Karl Alzner is currently travelling around North America and meeting suitors during this week’s free-agent courting period. Toronto has interest, but the 28-year-old is in prime position to land a big-money, long-term deal when the signing season opens on Saturday.

He might be priced out of range for the Leafs, just like fellow UFA Kevin Shattenkirk.

The other viable options on the open market won’t draw major headlines: Brendan Smith, a Toronto-born lefty who routinely plays the right side; Cody Franson, a veteran hoping for a return to his boyhood team; Matt Hunwick, a bottom-pairing stalwart in Toronto the past two seasons; and

Roman Polak, another familiar face who suffered a broken right leg during the first round of the playoffs against Washington.

The Leafs will also look to find some solutions within.

They signed 23-year-old Calle Rosen and 22-year-old Andreas Borgman out of Sweden this spring and both will be given an opportunity to crack the lineup in training camp. Andrew Nielsen, Travis Dermott and Rinat Valiev are among those who have been seasoning in the American Hockey League.

Some patience will be required no matter what combination of those players joins Jake Gardiner, Morgan Rielly, Nikita Zaitsev and Connor Carrick on the opening night roster.

Ideally, the organization hopes to draft and develop more defencemen over time to augment its impressive group of young forwards. They’ve looked at plenty of external options, but are rightfully wary of cost – both in terms of acquisition and/or how much salary cap space they’ll account for.

“We’re busy,” said Babcock. “We’ve been busy the whole time. Just because you’re busy doesn’t mean anything happens as far as from (the media’s) perspective. It happens from our perspective because we’re gathering the information and putting ourselves in the best spot. A lot of deals that you think you might be in on you’re never in on.

“We’re going to do what we can to improve our team, we’ve been trying to do that since we finished (the season) and we continue to try and do that.”

In many ways, the search is best understood as being more about the journey than the destination. This topic will undoubtedly be revisited next off-season and the one after that.

It probably won’t fade away completely until the needs are addressed in-house – when 2017 first-rounder Timothy Liljegren and a few others are eventually ready to make the leap.

“Well I’d always like to get another ‘D,’” said Babcock. “But you can ask me that every year and I’ll tell you the same thing. How’s that?”


1069610 Websites

Sportsnet.ca / Down Goes Brown: Non-UFAs who could steal headlines on July 1

Sean McIndoe

• How quickly will Habs move on Price?

• Islanders pushing hard for Tavares extension

• Is McDavid worth $15 million per year?

It’s been called the day of the year when NHL GMs make their biggest mistakes. And now, July 1 is almost here. While most Canadians will be busy painting their faces and setting off fireworks, the hockey world will be keeping an eye on the wire for the latest signings.

Most years, that means watching the unrestricted free agents. But this year’s class isn’t an especially strong one. There’s Kevin Shattenkirk, and we’re all breathlessly waiting to see which teams he pretends to be interested in before signing with the Rangers. There are respected veterans, like Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleau and Jarome Iginla. Alexander Radulov might get there, and Ryan Miller will be available. But as far as dramatic storylines, this year’s UFA class won’t have all that much to offer.

So instead, let’s turn our attention to the other July 1 class: players who are already under contract, but will become eligible to sign an extension. The CBA dictates that players on multi-year contracts can sign extensions one year before their current deal expires. And that means we’ll have plenty of big-name players who can re-up with their current teams as early as Saturday.

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No doubt, plenty of negotiations have already taken place behind the scenes. Some players will sign almost immediately. Some might take a few days or weeks to get a deal done, like Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane in 2016. And others could head into the season without a new deal, Steven Stamkos or Anze Kopitar-style, which will no doubt cause some frayed nerves for their team’s fan base.

So today, let’s look at some of the bigger names who are eligible to steal the headlines from this year’s UFAs on July 1.

Carey Price

Price is one of two true superstars still in their prime who’ll be eligible for unrestricted free agency in 2018. With a recent Vezina and Hart Trophy on his resumé, he’s widely considered the best goaltender on the planet. Now he’ll have a chance to be paid like one.

But is it possible that it won’t happen in Montreal? The Canadiens have been an unpredictable team in recent years, both on and off the ice. They made headlines by trading Price’s friend P.K. Subban last year, and we can’t say for sure exactly how that sat with the goaltender. Price has also had to endure an injury, playoff disappointment and a coaching change, and his team still can’t score any goals for him. Could he secretly have his eye on the door?

Well… not really, no. As juicy a story as that would be, there’s been little indication of any true animosity between the Canadiens and their franchise player, and he’s explicitly said that he plans to stay. We won’t know for sure until the ink is dry on a new deal, but all indications are that it will happen, and probably quickly.

But the story won’t end there. While Price will almost certainly re-sign in Montreal, the question of how much it costs could loom large. Barring some sort of hometown discount, Price could become the highest-paid goaltender in the league. The top cap hit at the position right now belongs to Henrik Lundqvist at $8.5 million. That contract seems like a bit of an outlier — it’s over $1 million more expensive than the second-highest-paid goalie, Sergei Bobrovsky — but it should be in the ballpark for Price. If he wants even more, Marc Bergevin probably won’t have much choice.

Whatever Price winds up getting, Habs fans will be fine with it as long as he can maintain his recent level of play. But how much room does that leave Bergevin to sign guys like Radulov or Andrei Markov, or to get a new deal done for Alex Galchenyuk (if he’s still on the team)? And can Bergevin get a Price deal nailed down quickly enough to know what he’s working with when bidding on this year’s UFA market?

As always in Montreal, we’ll get some off-season drama. It may not end in another star player leaving town, but we’ll see how long the story drags on.

Tape II Tape

Ryan Dixon and Rory Boylen go deep on pucks with a mix of facts and fun, leaning on a varied group of hockey voices to give their take on the country’s most beloved game.

Tavares is the other superstar UFA from the class of 2018, and his case gets a little more complicated than Price’s. Many of the same questions apply — Is he happy where he is? Does he believe in management and the team’s direction? Would he prefer a fresh start somewhere else? — but the difference is that, unlike Price, asking those questions doesn’t feel like wishful thinking from other fan bases.

Tavares has endured a lot in his eight years with the Islanders. The team has moved to a new arena that everyone seems to hate. There’s been an ownership shuffle. He’s missed the playoffs five times, including last year, and gotten out of the first round just once. And he’s done it all on a below-market deal signed back in 2011, one that pays him less than Travis Zajac and Brandon Dubinsky. If anyone would want a fresh start somewhere else, you’d think Tavares might be the guy.

It sounds like Islanders’ ownership might be thinking it, too, because they’ve reportedly made an extension their top priority. There’s been talk of an offer in the eight-year, $80-million range. Last week’s Jordan Eberle deal was widely assumed to be driven at least in part by a desire to please Tavares. And there were even rumours that the team would offer his agent a front-office job.

It sounds like you can’t accuse the Islanders of not trying. But in hockey, just trying hard doesn’t always get it done. Talk of a trade has died down recently, and that would seem like a good sign that negotiations are

going well. But if Tavares were to decide that he doesn’t want a long-term commitment, it would be a devastating blow to a franchise that’s already hit plenty of bumps in the road over the years.

Connor McDavid

With apologies to Price and Tavares, there’s no bigger star eligible to sign a new deal on Saturday than McDavid. The Oilers’ star is still years away from UFA status, so there isn’t quite the same level of urgency in Edmonton as there might be in Montreal and New York. But McDavid’s new deal will almost certainly be the biggest of the year.

The question becomes how big. Given that he may already be the league’s best player and hasn’t even entered his prime, McDavid could probably name his price here. Some Oilers fans still seem to be clinging to the idea that McDavid will sign a discounted bridge-style deal, but that’s a pipe dream. Those contracts are for players who still have something to prove; McDavid doesn’t.

So how high does the number go? Today, Kane, Toews and Kopitar are the only members of the $10-million-cap-hit club, but McDavid should blow by that. Something in the $12-million range would get him to a symbolic $97 million on a max-length deal. Recent rumours have pegged the annual number at closer to $14 million. With a $75-million cap in place, the maximum hit for any one player would be $15 million, and if McDavid isn’t worth the max then nobody is. Given how the game’s economics work, he could sign for the absolute maximum and still be a great value for the Oilers for years to come.

Of course, this is where we’ll run into some hand-wringing over whether McDavid should leave some money on the table to make it easier for his team to build a winner around him. Negotiating a league-high cap hit didn’t seem to put a dent in Toews’s reputation as a leader, but we’ll no doubt hear some suggestions that McDavid should go easy on the Oilers (who also have Leon Draisaitl to sign this summer).

While the cap hit will be interesting, the contract length could be a bigger question. It’s typically assumed that players want to sign contracts for as long as possible, and that’s almost always true. But in McDavid’s case, it might make more sense to aim for a shorter deal. He’d still make plenty of money, and he’d be eligible to sign another monster contract in a few years when he’s still in his prime and the cap is (presumably) higher. There’s always the risk of injury, and some players would prefer to just lock in for the long term. But if McDavid wants to maximize his dollars, a shorter deal might make more sense.

Jack Eichel

You can take a lot of what we just said about McDavid and apply it to Eichel. But the Buffalo star’s journey to get to this point has been a bit bumpier, including reports that he insisted on a coaching change before he’d commit to the team. Those reports were later denied, although the team did go ahead and make changes behind the bench (and front office) shortly after.

Much like McDavid, Eichel holds the hammer here; the Sabres have invested far too much in building the franchise around him to start pinching pennies now. Eichel is in a position where it might make sense to look at a shorter bridge deal, with the goal of really hitting the jackpot in a few years. But the Sabres would probably prefer to get their star locked down for as long as possible.

And of course, we’ll all compare Eichel’s deal to McDavid’s. The Oiler star will get more — we’re talking about the 20-year-old reigning MVP here. But it could be interesting to see who signs first, and whether one deal gets used as a baseline for the other. It could make sense for Eichel to wait for McDavid’s deal to ease any sticker shock for the Sabres and their fans.

That’s assuming a deal isn’t already done, which it may well be. New GM Jason Botterill has plenty on his plate (Sam Reinhart needs a new deal, too), but this figures to be the priority. The Sabres are coming off a disappointing year, and could use some good news. Getting Eichel signed for a long time would be one way to deliver some.

The Hockey PDOcast with Dimitri Filipovic provides entertaining and thoughtful dialogue about the game of hockey with an analytical edge. Not as nerdy as it sounds.

The rest of the pack

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While Price, Tavares, McDavid and Eichel could be viewed as the Big Four of extension season, there are plenty of other big names worth watching.

One is Toronto’s William Nylander. While he’s nowhere near the McDavid/Eichel level, he may be the best of the remaining rookie deals coming up for renewal. And he presents an interesting dilemma for the Leafs, because despite being tied for third in rookie scoring last year, he may only be the third-best young player on the Leafs roster. That’s a nice problem for a team to have, but how high (and how long) do you go with Nylander now, knowing that you have Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner to tackle next summer?

Sportsnet’s Starting Lineup

Nick Kypreos: This Leafs team needs Nylander

Originally aired March 23 2017

Another young player to keep an eye on: Winnipeg’s Jacob Trouba. While it was just last November that he signed a two-year deal with the Jets after sitting out the season’s first month, he’s already eligible to sign an extension. Whether he wants to is a different question; he seems kind of lukewarm on the idea in this interview, in which he described re-signing as “not a super-pressing issue” and says he wants to talk to his agent before committing to sticking around. The Jets also have to figure out what to do with Bryan Little and Toby Enstrom.

Another young defenceman who’ll need a new deal is Anaheim’s Cam Fowler, although based on the rumour mill we may need to wait and see if he’ll be negotiating it with the Ducks or with a new team. As for the older generation, Zdeno Chara is another big name who could technically sign a new deal this summer, although it’s hard to imagine the Bruins committing to a 40-year-old blueliner with a full year left on his deal.

In San Jose, two key players are eligible to re-sign, as defenceman Marc-Edouard Vlasic and goalie Martin Jones are both entering the final year of their deals. The Brent Burns extension kicks in this year, but the Sharks will have cap room to work with if Thornton and Marleau depart as expected.

An under-the-radar situation to watch can be found in Minnesota, where captain Mikko Koivu can be extended. He’s 34, and the Wild cap situation is always going to be complicated by the long-running Zach Parise and Ryan Suter deals. You’d have to figure something gets done here, although it may need to come at a discount from his current $6.75-million cap hit.

Elsewhere, the Flames have Mikael Backlund, the Rangers have Rick Nash, the Penguins have Cup hero Patric Hornqvist, and the Senators need to figure out whether to re-commit to 36-year-old goalie Craig Anderson after yet another solid season.

And then there’s the Sedin brothers in Vancouver, who are nearing the end of their careers but may not be ready to call it quits just yet. The rebuilding Canucks would have to figure out what number, if any, would make sense for a pair of players who’ll be 38 by the start of the 2018–19 season.

Add it all up, and we could get some interesting moves (and even more interesting non-moves) over the first week of July. And then time will tell whether any of the GMs involved look back on that decision as one of their biggest mistakes.


1069611 Websites

Sportsnet.ca / NHL’s top 15 UFAs of 2017: Latest rumours, reports

Luke Fox

As hotly anticipated as the Kevin Shattenkirk Sweepstakes are for Kevin and the Shattenkirks, 2017’s NHL free agency class is shaping up to be one of the weakest in years, especially in light of Friday’s re-signing of T.J. Oshie, Patrick Eaves and Kris Russell.

Potential summer of ’17 UFA bank-breakers Jamie Benn, Victor Hedman, Brent Burns, and Brad Marchand all inked maximum-term extensions with their current clubs months before becoming eligible to test the market. Dallas and Carolina smartly got the jump on the UFA goalie class by trading for and locking up Ben Bishop and Scott Darling, well in advance of summertime.

And with big tickets like Connor McDavid, John Tavares and Carey Price also eligible to re-sign new deals on July 1, some of the upcoming “business of hockey” news will already be focused on the summer of 2018.

So, who’s left?

Well, the 2017 UFA class will still offer a compelling mix of top-four defencemen, a few goaltenders with No. 1 potential, and some wingers coming off stellar seasons.

Some of these stars will move on due to salary cap restraints, younger talent and decreased playoff hopes. Others will be retained at any cost (but, y’know, within reason) and subjected to rounds of Twitter rumours.

The Washington Capitals and San Jose Sharks, in particular, could lose some key veterans.

Here is a look at the NHL’s Top 15 unrestricted free agents of 2017, plus a list of the other household names whose next job is undetermined.

The negotiating window is open, and the rumours are flying.

More from Sportsnet

NHL's top 12 unrestricted free agents of 2018: A sneak peek

LUKE FOX

Toronto Maple Leafs 2017 free agency preview

LUKE FOX

1. Kevin Shattenkirk

Age on July 1, 2017: 28

Position: Defence


Bargaining chips: U.S. Olympian. A top-four D-man on one of the league’s best blue lines. Power-play beast. Good for about 50 points if healthy.

The latest: NHL teams salivate over puck-moving defencemen under the age of 30, so expect Shattenkirk to knock his next contract out of the park. Think Keith Yandle’s seven-year, $44.45-million pact signed with the Panthers last year.

Shattenkirk (a “New Yorker at heart,” according to his Twitter bio) has been linked in rumours to the Rangers, who cleared space by buying out top-four D-man Dan Girardi.

After the Capitals were eliminated in the post-season, Shattenkirk told reporters he’s not ruling out re-signing with Washington but he’d like a prominent role on his next team. The Capitals expended most of their UFA budget on Oshie, so count them out.

“I know I’m not Shea Weber,” he said, “but I’ve kind of done it all before.”

The Rangers aren’t the only team interested. The Lightning, who already took a run at acquiring Shattenkirk via trade, have reportedly reached out to him this week.

The Sabres, Devils and Maple Leafs are three other clubs looking to upgrade their blue lines.

Shattenkirk will be shooting for the moon — seven years times $7 million? — so which GM will be willing to go deep here?

Lot of talk about NYR using space for Shattenkirk. They liked Yandle a lot, but were wary of term there. Someone like BUF makes more sense

— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) June 23, 2017

If chatter I'm hearing today is correct, I'd expect the #njdevils to be a finalist in #Shattenkirk sweepstakes. #NHLFreeAgency

— Jimmy Murphy (@MurphysLaw74) June 27, 2017

CAROLINA HURRICANES


So while #tblightning reached out to pending UFA Kevin Shattenkirk, had yet to check in with Karl Alzner or Cody Franson. At least not yet

— Joe Smith (@TBTimes_JSmith) June 26, 2017

2. Alexander Radulov

Age on July 1, 2017: 30



Bargaining chips: A big body that provides a critical scoring punch to a Habs roster that needs it. Finished second only to captain Max Pacioretty in points, with 54. Led all Canadiens with 36 assists. Fan favourite.

The latest: A matured and well-compensated Radulov returned to North America for the first time since 2012 on a one-year, prove-it deal. He will earn a multi-year contract, though in light of the Jonathan Drouin trade-and-sign, it’s no gaurantee it’ll be with Montreal.

Radulov denied asking for an eight-year (maximum) contract extension on March 17 but is looking for more term and dollars than the Habs wish to commit.

“We have limits,” GM Marc Bergevin told reporters at the draft regarding the Radulov negotiations. “We talked prior, didn’t amount to anything.”

Bergevin agrees it's a possibility he would trade Radulov's rights if they don't have a deal in place before July 1. Won't discuss negos.


Been told the highest offer made to Radulov was 3 years. @PierreVLeBrun reported he asked for 6 years at $7M.


Heard Radulov isn't interested to stay in Montreal if he has to take anything under three years.

— Aivis Kalniņš (@A_Kalnins) June 18, 2017

“I would love to stay here. I like it here. I love the fans,” Radulov told Sportsnet’s Eric Engels during the season.

“The people are nice, they’re not mean to me. Even when we lose some games, or when I wasn’t scoring for nine games before, people weren’t hard on me because they see how hard I’m working and trying.”

Radulov certainly has Weber’s endorsement:

3. Martin Hanzal

Age on July 1, 2017: 30

Position: Centre


Bargaining chips: A big top-two pivot (six-foot-six, 226 lb.) who creates plays and provides a threat on the power play. Free agent centres with first-line experience aged 30 and under are nearly impossible to find.

The latest: The Coyotes dealt Hanzal to an all-in Minnesota Wild club at the trade deadline, but the high-priced rental was just OK with his new team down the stretch and scored only once in the playoffs. A shortage of free-agent centremen, however, will help his efforts to land a raise and a multi-year commitment.

Expect Montreal, Chicago and Nashville to inquire. Re-signing with cap-tight Minnesota is a non-starter, with RFAs Mikael Granlund and Nino Niederreiter needing raises.

“I thought Martin did a good job for us and brought exactly what we thought he would in terms of faceoffs and size and playing hard through the middle,” Wild GM Chuck Fletcher said. “He was impactful and certainly made us deeper through the middle. He was a good pickup for us.”

4. Karl Alzner

Age on July 1, 2017: 28

Position: Defence


Bargaining chips: Durable top-four, stay-at-home defenceman on a good team for a relatively low wage. Hasn’t missed a regular-season game since becoming a full-time Capital in 2010. Excellent penalty killer. Broke NHL’s longstanding sunglasses barrier.

The latest: Changes to the Capitals roster are inevitable. Washington is a, um, cap team, but a handful of regulars — Alzner included — will be looking for raises they won’t find at home.

Evgeny Kuznetsov (RFA) should grab the biggest slice of pie, but is there room to keep the defensively responsible Alzer and the younger Dmitry Orlov (RFA again)? GM Brian MacLellan is one record saying he won’t be buying out the pricey Brooks Orpik, 36, whose lack of foot speed is becoming noticeable.

Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos reported in the winter that Alzner was asking for $5.5 to $6 million per season from Washington in light of the hefty Brent Burns extension.

The Maple Leafs, Canadiens, Canucks, Golden Knights and Stars are all clubs that could be interested.

Alzner broke his right hand blocking a shot against the Leafs in Round 1 of the playoffs and won’t need surgery. He said he’s open to re-signing in Washington but sounds like a man prepared to move on.

“This is a pretty good window that we had here, and unfortunately it’s not there anymore,” Alzner told reporters in May.

Quick summary: Alzner tells Chaumont he's interested in signing with Habs, wants long term deal, talks with Caps essentially dead right now https://t.co/xnUvkhEnUN

— Аrpon Basu (@ArponBasu) June 27, 2017

Have learned the #Canucks have called the agent for D Karl Alzner and F Jordan Weal. Both local products.


5. Joe Thornton

Age on July 1, 2017: 37

Position: Centre


Bargaining chips: Slam-dunk Hall of Famer. One of the greatest passers to ever pick up a hockey stick. World Cup champion and Stanley Cup finalist. Dope beard. Our pick for the 101st greatest player of all time.

The latest: The love affair between Jumbo Joe and San Jose should continue, perhaps at the expense of fellow UFA forward Patrick Marleau. It’s just too hard to imagine him elsewhere.

Even after having his captaincy stripped, the man is comfortable playing where he is, thank you. Expect a short-term, bonus-laden deal with a full no-move clause at a reasonable rate, perhaps in the $4.5-million range. Another 50-point season and an incredible 43 assists (easily tops in this UFA class) say Thornton is still worth the big bucks, even though his goal total was alarmingly low (seven, and a few were empty-netters).

The catch here is that San Jose should place a priority on extending 2018 UFAs Marc-Edouard Vlasic and Martin Jones before fitting in Thornton and Marleau — and they could likely make more money elsewhere.

A trooper of the highest order, Thornton battled through playoff games despite needing surgery on his ACL and MCL.

No extension talks were held in-season, but upon the Sharks’ elimination, Thornton said he wants to remain in San Jose and sees the Sharks as a Stanley Cup–calibre club.

“There’s no hurry [to re-sign], but yeah, I want to be back,” Thornton said (watch below).

Pierre LeBrun reported in January that Thornton was looking for a three-year deal but that the Sharks would prefer to go year-to-year. Settle on two?

Joe Thornton has received interest from all sorts of teams, from Cup contenders to some of the standing's bottom feeders. A lot of interest.

— David Pagnotta (@TheFourthPeriod) June 26, 2017

CAROLINA HURRICANES


6. Michael Stone

Age on July 1, 2017: 27

Position: Defence


Bargaining chips: Right shot. Top-four minutes. Well under 30 years old. Should provide good value with his low name recognition.

The latest: Traded from lottery-bound Arizona to the Flames as a deadline rental, Stone said he liked the fit in Calgary.

Until the Travis Hamonic trade, Stone was definitely a candidate for re-signing.

“It’s a great place for me and my family, and I think it’s a good situation with the team,” Stone told the Calgary Sun. “The guys are awesome, and it’s going to be a good team. We have some young players that are going to turn into some stars in this league. It’s something that you should want to be a part of.”

While Flames GM Brad Treliving says he’s open to bringing Stone back, logic dictates he’ll get more ice time and money elsewhere.

If Edm is looking for extra veteran D, pickings slim for cheap guy. Would they have interest in Calgary's Michael Stone, who shoots right?

— Jim Matheson (@NHLbyMatty) June 26, 2017

Garrioch mentions Michael Stone (RD) and Karl Alzner (29 in Sept., bad numbers on good team guy, likely $$$) as possibilities for Sens. Pass

— The 6th Sens (@6thSens) June 26, 2017

7. Sam Gagner

Age on July 1, 2017: 27

Position: Centre

2016-17 salary cap hit: $650,000

Bargaining chips: Incredible production for low cost. Coming off first career 50-point season. Tied career high with 18 goals.

The latest: One of the best bargains in the NHL, the versatile Gagner boosted the Columbus power play and is deserving of a significant raise and a multi-year deal after signing a one-year contract for peanuts (relatively speaking) as a UFA last summer.

Upon the Jackets’ playoff elimination, Gagner told The Dispatch his representatives have had preliminary talks with the club about a new deal.

“I thought it was a good fit,” Gagner said. “It’s a team that’s on the rise, and as the year went on I felt like more and more a part of things and a big part of things. Yeah, I’d like to come back, but we’ll see where things go.”

If he decides to move on, Gagner could improve most teams’ power play and third line five-on-five. The Canucks have reportedly inquired.

Been told for the 2nd straight summer, the #Canucks are expressing interest in Sam Gagner.


The season is over too early, but I want to say thanks to all of the @BlueJacketsNHL fans for being so supportive all year! #CBJ

— Sam Gagner (@89SGagner) April 23, 2017

8. Justin Williams

Age on July 1, 2017: 35



Bargaining chips: Mr. Game 7. A confident leader who’s survived hockey’s good, bad and ugly. Production rebounded in Washington with back-to-back 20-goal seasons.

The latest: The veteran Williams was a stellar fit on Washington’s second line, averaging 50 points over two seasons in D.C., and he chipped in 16 points in 25 playoff games there.

Like all Capitals UFAs, Williams said he would like to return, then added: “Saying something doesn’t mean it’s going to happen.”

Changes are coming, and what contender wouldn’t want to add Williams in 2017-18?

Williams will reportedly meet with Caps management this week. If he leaves, Nashville, St. Louis and Toronto are three of many teams that should take a look.

Whoa, this quote from Justin Williams: "I wanted to be celebrating with a trophy, but now my memories of this team here are disappointing."

— Katie Brown (@katiebhockey) May 12, 2017

Spoke to one exec on draft floor (not Caps) on Oshie deal "hurts Justin Williams return. Heard they were trying to find $ to bring him back"

— Dennis Bernstein (@DennisTFP) June 23, 2017

What an amazing trip to Scotland! Thx to my @Capitals mates for sending me#tripofalifetime pic.twitter.com/TOINv4sFtj

— Justin Williams (@JustinWilliams) June 24, 2017

9. Radim Vrbata

Age on July 1, 2017: 36



Bargaining chips: Another 20-goal campaign proves he can put the puck in the net. Excellent shootout man. Has already lowered salary expectations. Skates 17 minutes a night.

The latest: A brilliant summer pickup, Vrbata surprisingly went unmoved at the trade deadline despite reported interest from teams such as Boston, Ottawa and Florida. The only remaining members of the 2017 UFA class to put up more points this past season? Shattenkirk.

Vrbata has spent the bulk of his career in the desert, so there’s a chance he re-signs with more term and dollars. “This is where we want to be as a family. This is where I want to be as a player,” Vrbata said at season’s end.

A candidate worth exploring for Boston, Ottawa, Carolina and St. Louis if he doesn’t re-up with Arizona.

UFA RW Radim Vrbata still a possibility for AZ. Vrbata camp wants clarity by July 1. Will consider other offers this time rather than wait.

— Craig Morgan (@craigsmorgan) June 27, 2017

10. Patrick Marleau

Age on July 1, 2017: 37

Position: Left wing


Bargaining chips: Cagey veteran who will hit the 1,500-game mark next season. Member of the 500 Goal Club. Stays healthy and important. Scored more goals this season (27) than in previous two.

The latest: With a good chunk of San Jose’s young forwards Melker Karlsson and Joonas Donskoi receiving pay bumps, it may be difficult for GM Doug Wilson to keep both Thornton and Marleau in teal.

Marleau requested a trade in the past, but has excelled at age 37. Hard to imagine him with another team; also hard to imagine another big-money commitment from San Jose. Wilson says any contract talks with Marleau and Thornton will remain private, and Marleau said he’d prefer a multi-year deal.

Several teams have reportedly reached out already.

“I still feel like I got another, at least, five good years in me,” Marleau said. “Maybe more.”

Marleau scored in each of the Sharks’ final three playoff games despite playing with a broken thumb.

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“I love those guys,” teammate Logan Couture said of Thornton and Marleau. “They play hard. If you guys only knew what they play through. The respect level that I have for those two guys is just through the roof.”

Got a chance to speak with Pete DeBoer, who seems just as unsure about futures of Thornton/Marleau as everyone else I’ve talked to

— Kevin Kurz (@KKurzNBCS) June 24, 2017

SHARKS EXIT INTERVIEW: Patrick Marleau – "Five good years in me."#sjsharks pic.twitter.com/MDxZhQGyi3

— NBCS Sharks News (@NBCSSharks) April 27, 2017

11. Andrei Markov

Age on July 1, 2017: 38

Position: Defence


Bargaining chips: A top-pair defenceman since forever. Completed his 11th NHL season scoring between 30 and 64 points.

What the future holds: Yes, Markov is old. But he still ranks second among all impending UFA D-men in points (36) and time on ice (21:50). He’s old but fit. We see no reason why the franchise that drafted him nearly 20 years ago wouldn’t re-sign him to a one- or two-year extension to help ease the development of Montreal’s young defencemen.

Markov expressed a desire to stay in Montreal “for the rest of my life” on garbage-bag day, and Bergevin said he has no plans to blow the team up. Good bet he re-signs.

TVA’s Renaud Lavoie reported over draft weekend that Markov is looking for a two-year commitment fro the Habs, who cannot afford to let another D-man walk this month.

According to as source, Andrei Markov is looking for a 2 years contract / $12M total ($6M per season) #tvasports


Andrei Markov always said he wanted to stay with the Canadien but wants a 2 year deal. #tvasports


12. Ryan Miller

Age on July 1, 2017: 36



Bargaining chips: Consistent resume as a proven No. 1 goalie: 709 games, 358 wins, 39 shutouts. Posted a .914 save percentage behind one of the NHL’s weaker blue lines this year.

The latest: The Canucks and Miller are in talks, keeping the door open for an extension. Miller was reportedly not interested in a deadline move to Alberta.

If a deal in Vancouver can’t be worked out, a few other teams — such as Philadelphia, Buffalo, and Winnipeg — could look to add a goaltender.

GM Jim Benning would rather sign Miller to a one-year contract, according to Sportsnet’s Iain MacIntyre, bridging the gap for Jacob Markstrom to emerge as a bona fide starter.

The #Canucks are still trying to sign Ryan Miller. They have not turned to plan B on the market yet.


Thank you @Canucks fans. Have a great summer in your beautiful city.

— Ryan Miller (@RyanMiller3039) April 13, 2017

13. Michael Del Zotto

Age on July 1, 2017: 27

Position: Defence


Bargaining chips: Skates 19:30 a night. Proven defencemen this young are few and far between. May still have another 40-point season in him.

The latest: Some nights Del Zotto looked like one of the best Flyers on the ice; other times he was scratched. Consistency is an issue here, but the Ontario native will surely get some looks. He can move the puck.

Though he kept Del Zotto at the deadline, GM Ron Hextall reportedly told the defenceman that the Flyers will be moving on to give younger players more ice time. Another down year offensively (five goals, 18 points) and the fact he’s been a minus player five years running could spell a pay cut.

Potential fits: Edmonton, Boston, and Pittsburgh.

MDZ said Hexy thanked him for his time and told him the organization is going younger on the back end. Said it was a "treat" to play here.

— Sam Carchidi (@BroadStBull) April 11, 2017

Del Zotto could be a ton of fun, but the play in his own zone worries me. #Habs pic.twitter.com/5phU3tgrBe

— Ian (@BoisvertIan) June 25, 2017

Weekend morning core. #abs #coreworkout #gym @studiolagree

A post shared by Michael Del Zotto (@mdzofficial) on May 13, 2017 at 3:28pm PDT

14. Thomas Vanek

Age on July 1, 2017: 33



Bargaining chips: Nine-time 20-goal guy. Easily one of the most productive offensive players on the open market. Accustomed to changing teams. Can play both wings and boost your power play.

The latest: A strong showing on a bad Red Wings team earned Vanek a trade to Florida, only to see him score twice through 20 games as a Panther, although he did have eight assists. This has rental written all over it, as the Panthers have a good young core of forwards and are unlikely to outbid others to keep Vanek next season.

Would be surprised to see any team go long term here, but Vanek’s scoring touch should earn him another shot in the league. The Red Wings didn’t rule out bringing him back when he was rented to Florida.

Controversial #FlaPanthers opinion: I’d be okay with signing Vanek to a one year, $1m/1.1m, incentive laden contract for next year.

— Javi Alonso (@Javs42) March 8, 2017

15. Brian Elliott

Age on July 1, 2017: 32



Bargaining chips: An NHL-best .930 save percentage in 2015-16, followed by an excellent post-season that got the Blues over the hump and won the veteran goalie a No. 1 job in Calgary. Bounced back from a slow start to help position Calgary for the playoffs.

The latest: After the Anaheim Ducks swept the Flames in Round 1 of the playoffs (Elliott’s save percentage in that series: .880), Calgary made Mike Smith its new starter and cut ties with Elliott.

Determined to prove his critics wrong, Elliott wants one of the limited No. 1 gigs still open for debate. Multiple reports have linked him with the Winnipeg Jets, where he’d be a smart choice to take some of the load off young Connor Hellebuyck.

FWIW, Brian Elliott's agent says there's a number of teams interested in his client's services. Says he can't comment if #NHLJets are one.

— Scott Billeck (@ScottBilleck) June 26, 2017

As of now the #Canucks have not called the agents for goalies Brian Elliott, Chad Johnson or Steve Mason. Are they close with Ryan Miler?.


CAROLINA HURRICANES


Other notable UFAs in 2017: Dmitry Kulikov, Shane Doan, Dan Girardi, Jaromir Jagr, Brian Gionta, Steve Mason, Mike Fisher, Ales Hemsky, Trevor Daley, Brian Campbell, Chris Kunitz, Jonathan Bernier, Jarome Iginla, Patrick Sharp, Ron Hainsey, Mark Streit, Cody Franson, Chad Johnson, Darcy Kuemper, Drew Stafford, Nick Bonino, Kris Versteeg, Johnny Oduya, Brendan Smith, Antti Niemi, Nail Yakupov


1069612 Websites

Sportsnet.ca / Edmonton Oilers 2017 free agency preview

Mark Spector

Every inch of the Edmonton Oilers operation is standing in line right now, behind the extending of Connor McDavid’s contract and the subsequent announcement of a new deal for Leon Draisaitl. Nothing gets ahead of that, and because those numbers may not be completely known quantities for GM Peter Chiarelli, it sets the Oilers up for a fairly quiet July 1.

No $6-million players coming in this Canada Day, like Milan Lucic a year ago. With Kris Russell having already signed a four-year, $16-million free agent deal, Eric Gryba could be the big catch on July 1.

SALARY CAP BREAKDOWN

Forwards: $27.93 million

Defence: $19.62 million

Goaltenders: $5.84 million

Total: $56.99 million ($18 million cap space)

AREAS OF NEED

Third-line centre: In fact, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins slots in as a No. 3 centre in Edmonton, but the problem is, he’s a career 43.3 per cent faceoff man. The Oilers finished 30th in team percentage last season. They need an Antoine Vermette/Manny Malhotra type who can help Mark Letestu in the circle.

Top-four defenceman: With Andrej Sekera (torn ACL) out through Christmas, a second-pairing defenceman would be handy in Edmonton. They’ve got three of their top four back, and the third pairing of Darnell Nurse and Matthew Benning can probably take on a few more minutes. At worst, the Oilers need UFA Gryba back. At best, a genuine top-four guy.

Scoring winger: There is room on the left wing for a veteran who might be left looking for a contract in August, the way Edmonton brought in Kris Versteeg last season before he bolted for Calgary. Someone who might score 12 goals off the second or third line, in Jordan Eberle’s absence.

Brian Boyle: Highly unlikely, but Oilers GM Chiarelli loves a big centreman, and Boyle is a career 50 per cent guy in the circle. The Oilers simply have to find a way to win some draws, and waiting for McDavid to learn the craft may not be an option. The experienced Boyle would look good in Oilers togs, and may be enticed to join a team with a big upside.

Brandon Pirri: Pirri can play all the forward positions, and would slot in as a right-winger in Edmonton. The Oilers will lose some goal production in the Ryan Strome-for-Eberle swap, and could use a shooter on the right side to take the pressure to produce off of Anton Slepyshev, Zack Kassian and Strome. Pirri isn’t a well-rounded player but has been known to score goals. Could be a handy signing for less than $1.5 million.

Eric Gryba: If Gryba is your seventh defenceman, playing the same 40 games he played this past season in Edmonton, you’re in good shape. The problem? He’ll likely want to get paid like a third-pairing guy, which means a raise from the $950,000 he made in 2016-17. Could Calgary get involved, driving up the price? The Flames need a legit third-pairing guy, so we’d expect Gryba to stay in Edmonton, unless the funds are too tight and he gets a better offer elsewhere.

RECENT FREE AGENT ACQUISITIONS

Zack Kassian, $5.85 million, three years in 2017: Chiarelli reclaimed Kassian out of rehab, gave him one last chance, and Kassian took full advantage last season. He’s a good third- or fourth-line right-winger and penalty killer, and he’s paid like it. Value player.

Kris Russell, $16 million, four years in 2017: The Oilers wanted their man back after he rode a top-four role through a successful 2016-17. Analytics dudes hate him, but the Oilers love Russell.

Milan Lucic, $42 million, seven years in 2016: The jury is still out on this signing. Lucic was huge in guiding McDavid through the captain’s role, and changing the culture in Edmonton. His 23 goals (50 points) in the regular season was OK, but his just two goals in 13 playoff games lacked. The game is getting faster. Lucic has to get quicker.


Arizona Coyotes

The Coyotes now have another hole to fill on their coaching staff as associate coach Jim Playfair and the team mutually agreed to part ways Tuesday.

Although Playfair was at the team's prospect development camp Monday and Tuesday, his departure doesn't come as a surprise. He was brought on by former head coach Dave Tippett, who also mutually parted with the organization last week, and Tippett's successor is likely to want to appoint his own staff.

Arizona is in the early stages of its coaching search with Detroit's American Hockey League coach Todd Nelson emerging as a candidate, as the Detroit Free Press reported the Red Wings have granted the Coyotes permission to speak with Nelson. The Coyotes declined to comment.

Boston Bruins

With NHL free agents now free to speak with other clubs prior the July 1 opening bell, the Bruins have reached out to unrestricted free agent defenseman Trevor Daley and the two sides have had a “positive” dialogue, according to Daley’s agent, Rick Curran.

Carolina Hurricanes

The Hurricanes on Tuesday signed defenseman Jake Chelios to a one-year, two-way contract that will pay him $650,000 on the NHL level or $85,000 on the American Hockey League level in the 2017-18 season.

The Hurricanes announced Tuesday they have signed forward Patrick Brown to a one-year, two-way contract.


Chicago Blackhawks

Defenseman Ville Pokka will return on a one-year deal, the Hawks announced Tuesday, while a source said the team will let forward Dennis Rasmussen become an unrestricted free agent.

The Hawks and Rasmussen were in talks about re-signing him well before qualifying offers were due Monday, a source said, but Rasmussen did not receive a qualifying offer. The Hawks are letting him walk for now after signing forward Tomas Jurco, another restricted free agent, to a one-year deal Monday.

Columbus Blue Jackets

The Blue Jackets did not extend qualifying offers to goaltender Oscar Dansk and defenseman Oleg Yevenko, making them free agents. As expected, the club did qualify forwards Alexander Wennberg and Josh Anderson along with forward Jordan Schroeder, who the Jackets obtained in a trade with the Minnesota Wild on Friday.

Winger Vitaly Abramov, one of the club’s top prospects, missed the start of development camp due to strep throat. Coaches hope Abramov can join the four-day camp later in the week.

Detroit Red Wings

A limited budget is leaving the Detroit Red Wings to parse the free agent market for an ideal fit.

CAROLINA HURRICANES


One such candidate is defenseman Trevor Daley. Both Wings general manager Ken Holland and head Jeff Blashill have spoken with Daley this week. Teams cannot make offers until Saturday.

About eight teams had been in contact with Daley as of Tuesday afternoon. The Wings are among the three-to-four teams Daley considers a particularly good fit.

The Coyotes have received permission from the Red Wings to talk to Nelson about the coaching vacancy. The Coyotes parted ways with Dave Tippett this month.

The Red Wings have signed center Ben Street to a one-year contract.

Edmonton Oilers

Eric Gryba was sitting on a beach in Hawaii during this week’s free-agent interview window, several interested clubs couldn’t set up any wine-and-dine meetings.

So Edmonton Oilers general manager Peter Chiarelli simply swept in and made his veteran defenceman an offer he was not going to refuse.

A two-year deal at $900,000 a season.

Florida Panthers

Dale Tallon said that he spoke to Jaromir Jagr’s agent, Petr Svoboda on Tuesday and expected to talk to him again on Wednesday.

“We’ll have a meeting with the coaches and try to put the team together and see where we’re going and what might we add on July 1 (the first day of free agency) and who in this camp might play on our team or not,” Tallon said. “We’re still talking, still negotiating.”

The Los Angeles Kings have been in contact with San Jose Sharks center Joe Thornton, LA Kings Insider has learned from multiple sources.

Minnesota Wild

The Wild have re-signed center Pat Cannone (kuh-NOH-nee) to a one-year, two-way contract.

The deal, which was done on Tuesday, will give Cannone a $650,000 salary while he's in the NHL and $225,000 in the AHL.

Montreal Canadiens

Canadiens defenceman Andrei Markov, who can become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, is reported to be asking for a two-year, US$12-million deal, according to Renaud Lavoie of TVA Sports.

Markov has earned the same $5.75-million salary in each of the last 10 seasons.

Canadiens forward Alexander Radulov, who can also become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, was reported recently by TSN’s Pierre LeBrun to be looking for a six-year, US$42-million contract.

Philadelphia Flyers

One day after extending qualifying offers to seven restricted free agents, the Flyers re-signed Mark Alt, who was unrestricted.

The Phantoms' defenseman agreed to a one-year, two-way deal on Tuesday that will play him $125,000 in the AHL and $650,000 in the NHL.

Winnipeg Jets

The help wanted sign remains up for the Winnipeg Jets, with free agency right around the corner.

Bringing in an experienced goalie is at the top of the list of priorities and the Jets have checked in with the camp of pending unrestricted free agent Steve Mason during the courting period.

Mason, 29, was 26-21-8 with a 2.66 goals-against average and .908 save percentage with three shutouts in 58 games with the Philadelphia Flyers last season.

The Jets are one of several teams that have inquired about Mason, though Brian Elliott appears to remain an option as well.

Vancouver Canucks

Dmitry Zhukenov, the Russian centre drafted by the Canucks in 2015, has signed with Avangard Omsk of the KHL. Zhukenov played for Omsk’s junior team before being drafted; he then played the last two years with Chicoutimi of the QMJHL, posting a point per game for the Sagueneens.

Because he was drafted from a European club, the Canucks retain his NHL rights until June 1, 2019.

NHL Daily Transactions

Carolina Hurricanes Jake Chelios Contract extended, One-year contract extension

Carolina Hurricanes Patrick Brown Contract extended, One-year contract extension

Chicago Blackhawks Ville Pokka Contract extended, One-year contract extension

Columbus Blue Jackets Jordan Schroeder Contract extended, Two-year contract extension

Dallas Stars Antti Niemi Released, Contract bought out

Detroit Red Wings Ben Street Contract extended, One-year contract extension

Edmonton Oilers Eric Gryba Contract extended, Two-year contract extension

Minnesota Wild Patrick Cannone Contract extended, One-year contract extension

Ottawa Senators Max McCormick Contract extended, Two-year contract extension

END

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