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10 teams after Volchenkov? Isles have a big wish list … Coburn could be a tough sign … No progress with Hamhuis
Mark Easson
Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Anton Volchenkov could have as many as 10 teams checking in with him when the free agent market opens up tomorrow. Likely suitors could be Washington, San Jose, Atlanta, Anaheim, St. Louis, and the NY Rangers. He could get a contract in the $4.5-5 million range.
Tim Sassone of the Daily Herald: The Chicago Blackhawks may look at some free agents for their 3rd-4th lines and a cheap, depth defenseman. They need to add some size and toughness, but the most important factor will that they are inexpensive. The ‘Hawks may end up dealing Andrew Ladd, who they’ve sent a qualifying offer too already. Possible defenseman targets could be: Sean O’Donnell, Jay McKee, Brett Lebda, Brett Clark, John Scott, and Garnet Exelby.
Chris Botta of NYI Point Blank: The NY Islanders have about $6-8 million to spend to reach the salary cap floor. They’d like to add: a top-4 defenseman, a tough experienced 5th – 6th defenseman, a potential top-6 forward, a reliable-penalty killing bottom-6 forward, and a backup goalie.
Frank Seravalli of the Philadelphia Daily News: The Flyers spent much of yesterday talking with their restricted free agents. Darroll Powe and Dan Carcillo have already been qualified. Braydon Coburn may be a trickier signing. The 25-year old made $1.3 million last season, and put up similar numbers to Kris Letang, who signed a 4 year deal with the Penguins for $3.5 million a season. One concern Dan Hamhuis had when talking to the Flyers wasn’t about money but about his role with the club, minutes he’d get.
Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: There hasn’t been much progress between Dan Hamhuis and the Pittsburgh Penguins. The sides continue to talk, but they may not get a deal done by tomorrow.
Rich Chere of the Star-Ledger: It doesn’t look like Paul Martin will re-sign with the Devils before tomorrow, and will test free agency. It’s still possible the Martin signs with the Devils.