Arthur Staple of Newsday: After the Blues and Sabres trade, the Blues for sure will not have an interest in Islanders defenseman Andrew MacDonald since they likely won’t have a first round pick in the next two drafts. Reports have the Kings and Sharks interested in MacDonald. A half dozen teams have inquired about Thomas Vanek. Islanders GM Garth Snow will be looking for a goaltender this summer.
David Pagnotta: The Islanders haven’t reached out Andrew MacDonald regarding a contract in a while. Asking price is high, but they are set on trading him.
Darren Dreger: Sounding like Chris Phillips wants a two year contract extension. The Senators prefer a one-year deal.
John Vogl: Sabres interim coach Ted Nolan on a contract extension: “Right now I can’t even discuss that. It’s such an emotional roller coaster.”
The Fourth Period: Sources saying the Blackhawks are extremely interested in Ryan Kesler. The Penguins put an offer on the table and the Red Wings, Flyers and Blue Jackets are also interested. The Blackhawks are also interested Martin Brodeur.
Will DePaoli: The Canucks were scouting the Penguins AHL team on Thursday.
Mark Spector: Doubtful that Kesler would accept a trade to the Maple Leafs.
Rob Tychkowski: The Predators could send Devan Dubnyk to the AHL when Pekka Rinne returns this week. Interesting as Dubnyk is on a one-way deal and Carter Hutton is on a two-way. Hutton has started 10 of their last 11.