- Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: Vincent Lecavalier could get interest from at least 12 teams, including (LeBrun’s guesses) the Canadiens, Red Wings, Blackhawks, Canucks, and Maple Leafs. The Canucks don’t want to buyout Roberto Luongo. They will have to either take back some salary or eat part of his contract. Kris Letang’sagent:
“Our focus has been on negotiating a contract with the Pittsburgh Penguins and we have not discussed the Toronto Maple Leafs,” Hughes told ESPN.com via email Thursday morning. “He remains under contract for one more year if we don’t extend his contract. We are not the source of the story, nor were we contacted to verify its accuracy beforehand.”
- Louis Jean: Jean has been told that Lecavalier is open and willing to play in Montreal. He will look at all opportunities. Some teams have already contacted him.
- Adam Proteau: From an NHL agent, don’t be surprised if Lecavalier signs a one year deal and returns to Tampa next summer. Spector’s Hockey: Richardson assumes that most teams would want to do a deal longer than one year though.
- Dan Rosen: (from the morning) Already seeing tweets saying that Lecavalier could land with Calgary, NY Rangers, Montreal and Detroit. Detroit makes sense if Filppula isn’t going back.
- The Fourth Period: The Lightning are actively shopping Ryan Malone. Could be next buyout.
- Bob McKenzie: Who will now be the 2nd line center in Tampa? McKenzie wonders if the Red Wings will trade Valtteri Filppula’s rights before the free agency starts.
- Darren Dreger: The Rangers are still undecided on a Brad Richards buyout.
- Chris Kuc: The Blackhawks put Steve Montador and Rostislav Olesz on waivers. If they clear, they will be bought out.