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Afternoon rumor roundup, roster notes and starting goalies
Mark Easson
Darren Dreger of TSN: Trade discussions are heating up. The Blue Jackets may be the closest to making a big deal. Steve Mason, Jakub Voracek and Rostislav Klesla are believed to be getting some interest. A top center and defenseman are of interest to the Jackets. Dale Tallon and Pierre Gauthier spent some time talking before last night’s game, though Tallon said no groundwork was laid. Ray Emery has drawn interest from 3 teams, with the Ducks and Flyers as 2 of them. Teams could make a move in the next 48 hours.
Darren Dreger via twitter: Ray Emery’s agent JP Barry, “We are now exploring all possibilities and will have to make a decision relatively soon.” Bob McKenzie via twitter: Wherever Emery signs, he’s likely to start off in the AHL.
Andy Strickland via True Hockey: The LA Kings and soon to be UFA, Justin Williams, have talked contract extension. Williams may be looking for a multi-year deal in the $4.5 million range, which might be out the Kings range.
Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Peter Forsberg appeared to have had a rough practice yesterday, and it’s still unknown if his comeback will be successful. Forsberg hopes he can make a decision soon, maybe by the weekend.
Allen Panzeri via twitter: Jason Spezza has been practicing on a line with Alfredsson and Foligno and appears to be ready to go for Saturday.
Ted Kulfan of the Detroit News: Pavel Datsyuk had hoped to return on Friday, but Babcock said it might not be until next week.
Michael Russo of the Star-Tribune: It looks like it might be quiet trade deadline for the Minnesota Wild. From GM Chuck Fletcher, “trying to make the playoffs with this group.” There has been no talks of moving any of their potential UFAs. Though he wouldn’t mind giving his team a boost, he won’t mortgage their future. Marek Zidlicky is 2 weeks away from practicing.
Katie Carrera via twitter: Capitals coach Bruce boudreau doesn’t know if Alex Semin will make the trip to Tampa.