- Andrew Gross: Rangers Henrik Lundqvist said there is nothing new to report on contract negotiations.
- Ben Kuzma: Henrik Sedin on contract negotiations for him and his brother:
“There’s no news. When they come to us and have something for us, then we’ll talk. I won’t be negotiating, so I’m good. I’m going to play. If we take care of what we can do, everything will take care of itself. I don’t think we’re guys who are focused on what kind of deal we’re going to get. It’s always been about getting better.”
- Chris Johnston: Part of the $22.5 million in signing bonuses for Phil Kessel, he’ll get a $5 million payment in 2020-21 and in 2021-22.
- Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun: Maple Leafs Phil Kessel had asked for $8.6 million a year. Eight-years was more than the Leafs originally wanted to go. Captain Dion Phaneuf will be a UFA at the end of the season. Phaneuf has a $6.5 million salary cap hit this year, but a $5.5 million salary. The Leafs must decide what they think Phaneuf is worth. $6.5 million or more? Would he be insulted if they offered less? Do they even want him as their top defenseman?
- Elliotte Friedman: The Maple Leafs may decide at some point if they should eat some of John-Michael Liles contract in a trade to help their salary cap number. Teams can only retain salary for three players in a season and they have already used two up, Matt Frattin and Ben Scrivens.
- Randy Sportak of the Calgary Sun: Flames Mike Cammalleri is a UFA at the end of the season and has a limited no-trade clause. His play over the first several months could impact the return they get if they decide to trade him. Other Flames who will be UFAs at the end of the season: Matt Stajan, Lee Stempniak, Blair Jones, Tim Jackman, Chris Butler, Kris Russell and Derek Smith.
