Jesse Spector of the NY Daily News: Chris Drury broke his left index finger blocking a shot yesterday and will be out 4 weeks. After starting camp centering Marian Gaborik and Alex Frolov, Derek Stepan skated between Evgeny Grachev and Mats Zuccarello yesterday.
Michael Arace of the Columbus Dispatch: There is a deal that works for both the Oilers and Blue Jackets. Even though Sheldon Souray has missed 102 games in the past 2 seasons, and has a cap hit of $5.4 million the next 2 years, he may be worth the risk for the Blue Jackets. GM Scott Howson has declined to comment on the rumors, the same for Oilers GM Steve Tambellini. The Oilers could waive Souray on Saturday and hope someone claims him on re-entry waivers, but then they’d be on the hook for 1/2 his salary. Arace thinks Souray would be worth the risk for the Blue Jackets, and could arguably become the best defenseman they’ve ever had. Tom Reed of the Columbus Dispatch: Mike Commodore isn’t that bothered with all the trade talk, he’s been dealt before and has played with 6 organizations in 11 years. He’s been aware of Sheldon Souray rumor since June.
Arthur Staple of Newsday: Ilya Kovalchuk has moved over to right wing to start camp. Top line to start is Zach Parise, Travis Zajac and Kovalchuk, a solid 2nd line of Patrik Elias, Jason Arnott and Jamie Langenbrunner.
Eric Stephens of the OC Register: Joffery Lupul received medical clearance to start skating after 10 months. Lupul suffered a blood infection stemming from back surgery last December. It will take him a couple months to get back into game shape. “It’s a starting point. I’ve been cleared to do a little more in the weight room and I can skate, albeit by myself. I’m not allowed to get out there with the guys. But just to get in the weight room and start bringing my strength back up and just being out there with the guys is a good thing. I’m going to be under a watchful eye.”
Andrew Gross via twitter: New York Rangers GM Glen Sather says that John Tortorella is the right coach for the team. My question is … Is Sather the right GM for the team? As I’ve said before, I’m still surprised that he’s still there.
George Malik via twitter: Kris Draper will head back to Detroit and will be re-evaluated on Wednesday. Suffered a groin injury and is done for training camp.
David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News: San Jose Sharks defenseman Niclas Wallin is battling an infection from a July surgery on his ankle that was cleaning out scare tissue. He’s been able to take part in scrimmages but only after the training staff cut a whole in his skate that allows him to get his foot in and out. He’s having Bauer create a custom boot for him.
