- Andy Strickland: There haven’t been negotiations between the Islanders and Dan Boyle yet. They won’t take place unless Boyle decides he wants to play there. A decision is expected this week. There appears to be a slim chance that Boyle would sign with the Islanders. He may be looking to play for a contender at this point in his career. Boyle has been speaking with people within the Islanders organization this week, as well as people who have played there in the past.
- Chris Botta: NHL revenue this past season is approximately $3.7 billion. With the Canadian TV deal kicking next season, revenue could be well over $4 billion. James Mirtle: $3.7 billion in revenue would be the salary cap over $70 million. 2015-16 cap could hit $76 million, with the salary floor being $20 million less.
- Tom Gulitti: For Ilya Kovalchuk to return to the NHL next season, all 30 teams would have to OK it.
- Harvey Fialkov of the Sun-Sentinel: If the Panthers don’t get an offer they like for the first overall pick, they could be leaning towards Aaron Ekblad as he may be the most NHL ready player projected to be in the top four.
“Ekblad is this year’s player most likely ready to step in and play in the NHL,” Scott Luce, the Panthers director of scouting, told the Sun Sentinel last week. “He’s physically mature and has got lots of mileage underneath him at the OHL level.”
Dan Bylsma will meet with the Panthers. Fialkov wonders that if they hire Bylsma, would pending UFA defenseman Brooks Orpik and Matt Niskanen be interested in playing in South Florida?
The Maple Leafs (No. 8), Flames (No. 4) and Oilers (No. 3) are said to be interested in the top overall pick.
- Mark Spector: Canucks GM Jim Benning on their 6th overall draft pick: “We’re going to be using that pick.” Doubtful that he trades their 2nd round, 36th overall pick.
