Michael Russo of the Star-Tribune: It has been determined that Rangers enforcer Derek Boogaard died accidentally from a toxic mix of alcohol and oxycodone. His family acknowledged he had an addiction and “repeated courageous attempts at rehabilitation.” “Derek had been showing tremendous improvement but was ultimately unable to beat this opponent,” the message from Boogaard’s parents, Len and Joanne, and brothers and sister said. “While he played and lived with pain for many years, his passion for the game, his teammates and his community work was unstoppable.” Boogaard had voluntarily admitted himself into rehab 3 times since 2009.
Chris Kuc of the Chicago Tribune: The Blackhawks have reportedly signed goal Alexander Salak to a 2 year, one way contract. Salak was acquired along with Michael Frolik for Jack Skille and prospects. He played in the Swedish Elite league this past season, appearing in 32 games with a 1.97 GAA and .926 SV%. He’ll make about $600,000 and is in the mix for the backup job. Marty Truco is likely gone.
Gord Miller via twitter: Winnipeg mayor says it’s only a “matter of time” before a deal to move the Thrashers to Winnipeg is done, it’s not done yet. Darren Dreger via twitter: “Assuming ASG and TNSE reach agreement, NHL board approval may not happen until the end of June B of G mtng. No push to expedite that mtng.” Pierre LeBrun via twitter: “Re-alignment would very likely wait another season; Winnipeg would play in Southeast for one year”
Ted Kulfan of the Detroit News: Don’t look for the Red Wings to be big spenders this off-season. They currently have 15 players locked up for $46.8 million. So they have about $16 million open for 8 players and have 4 free agents; Nicklas Lidstrom, Jonathan Ericsson, Patrick Eaves and Drew Miller that they’d like to bring back.
Jesse Spector of the NY Daily News: The NY Rangers will have to decide if Matt Gilroy is worth a $2.1 million qualifying offer. It may be more than they want to pay the 27 year old who has made a limited impact so far. They have depth along the blueline, prospects waiting a limited cap space.
Will DePaoli via twitter: There have been no talks so far between the Penguins and RFA Dustin Jeffrey.
Tom Gulitti of the Bergon Record: There is nothing to report on Zach Parise talks with the Devils. “(Lamoriello) said they were going to have their internal (end of season) meetings and he was awaiting some direction on the whole ownership situation and once he had that he would reach out to us,” Wade Arnott said. “So, that’s where we stand.”
Craig Custance of the Sporting News: The Panthers have received permission to talk to Thrashers assistant John Torchetti. They may also seek permission to talk with Blackhawks assistant Mike Haviland. Kirk Muller is a potential candidate for the Dallas Stars coaching position. Joe Nieuwendyk has also reportedly contacted Guy Carbonneau, Cory Clouston and Ken Hitchcock.
