- Grant Robertson and Tara Perkins of the Globe and Mail: Rogers Communications and BCE are closing in a deal to by the 80% stock in MLSE from the Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan for $1.33 billion. Larry Tanenbaum supports the deal, which is necessary as he has the right to refuse any offer.
- Update: Rogers is buying 37.5% for approx. $533 million. BCE is buying 37.5% for approx. $533 million. Larry Tanenbaum is buying an additional 5%, bringing him up to 25%.
- Ken Wiebe of the Winnipeg Sun: Jets forward Evander Kane is on roll, scoring 9 goals in his last 10 games (14 total in 26 games). He’s also in a contract year.
“In the back of your mind, you’re aware of those things and you have to be aware of what your situation is personally,” said Kane. “I know this is my last year (of his current) contract and you want to have a big year and show what you can do at this level and prove your worth.”
- Ed Tait of the Winnipeg Free Press: Nik Antropov could be back in the Jets lineup tonight after missing the last 3 games. He’ll see how he feels at the morning skate. Chris Mason will start in net for the Jets against the Hurricanes.
- Neate Sager via twitter: The Ducks will loan Devante Smith-Pelly, and the Lightning will loan Brett Connolly to Team Canada for the World Junior Championships.
- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Tyler Seguin, Jeff Skinner, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Ryan Johansen and Sean Couturier will not be released by their teams for the World Juniors.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: The Panthers are worried that if they loan Erik Gudbranson to Team Canada they won’t have a replacement in the AHL if one of their Dmen suffers an injury.
- Rich Chere via twitter: Devils defenseman Andy Greene will miss 4 weeks with a fractured toe.
- Helene St. James via twitter: Red Wings Pavel Datsyuk was pulled from last night’s game as a precaution, and coach Mike Babcock doesn’t expect him to miss any games.