On the Dallas Stars …
- Darren Dreger: The Stars are focusing on Dan Hamhuis and Kris Russell. The Stars have a lot of time for Russell. The Flames are hoping to get two second round picks for Russell.
- Darren Dreger: The Stars are working on getting a defenseman. Dan Hamhuis is still an option, although they have cooled a bit on that front. Kris Russell is high on the Stars list.
On Kris Russell …
- Roger Millions: Kris Russell is traveling with the Flames. Hearing that the Stars are showing significant interest if the Flames decide to move him.
- Wes Gilbertson: There are multiple teams showing interest in Kris Russel, the Flames are hoping for a bidding war.
On Dan Hamhuis …
- Farhan Lalji: Hamhuis said that the Canucks haven’t ruled out the possibility of bringing him back when free agency starts. There are no promises, but not ruling it out.
- Farhan Lalji: Can tell from Hamhuis’s post game comments that he’s prepared himself to be traded if the right deal comes to the Canucks. Thought there was a chance pre-game.
- Ann Schmaltz: Hamhuis confirmed that he hasn’t been approached by Canucks management about a potential trade to the Blackhawks
- Josh Clipperton: Hamhuis mentions Antoine Vermette’s situation last year where he was traded to the Blackhawks, wins a Cup, and then re-signed with the Coyotes.
- Mark Spector: A no-trade clause always makes it tougher for the GM, but still think that Hamhuis is traded.
- Ben Kuzma of the Vancouver Province: Dan Hamhuis after last night’s game.
“Not much has changed over the last five or six days for us,” said the 33-year-old Hamhuis, whose expiring six-year contract carries a $4.5-million-US salary cap hit. “We’ve prepared ourselves for whatever comes and it should be an interesting morning.”
Remaining with the Canucks is their first option, but a trade could work.
“Our first option would be to stay in Vancouver and we’ll see if management approaches us with the right deal and we’ll see if it’s a fit. It would have to be what’s right for family, what’s right for hockey and what’s right financially.”
If he’s going to waive his no trade clause, a contender is the most important.
“A contending team would be a No. 1 thing,” said Hamhuis. “Maybe it (trade) is first thing in the morning, maybe it’s a deadline thing or maybe nothing happens. We’ve prepared ourselves of all situations.”