- Tim Panaccio of CSNPhilly: Chris Pronger skated yesterday by himself for the 2nd time since fracturing his foot. He could be back in the Flyers lineup around the All-Star game later this month.
- Michael Russo of the Star-Tribune: Niklas Backstrom’s next start on Sunday could be in jeopardy with what might be a groin injury. Antti Miettinen will take the morning skate to see if he can go tonight.
- Ted Kuflan of the Detroit News: Red Wings forward Valtteri Filppula is day-to-day with a groin injury.
- Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: Red Wings defenseman Brad Stuart had his jaw broken by a Tom Kostopoulos questionable hit last night (video at bottom of entry). The Wings hope he’ll be able to have surgery when they get to Vancouver.
“I’d assume they’d look at it and I’d assume he’s suspended,” Babcock said. “You’re supposed to protect the good players in the league and that’s a good player. I mean, I would have no problem if the guy buries him, he’s swinging at the puck, but you don’t have to hit him in the head. There’s no reason to do that. It’s disappointing.”
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Oilers captain Shawn Horcoff was expected to miss 8 weeks with a sprained MCL (originally hurt on Dec.7th) but is ahead of schedule. There is a chance he’s back in the lineup in 10-14 days, 2 weeks ahead of schedule.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Avalanche forward Chris Stewart is practicing but still wearing a non-contact jersey. He’s getting closer to returning.
- Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Blue Jackets: Mike Commodore cleared waivers yesterday, and the team continues to try and trade him. If they can’t find a deal right away, they could send him to their AHL team, put him on re-entry waivers and hope someone bites at 1/2 the price or loan him to another AHL team to basically remove him from their organization (what the Oilers did to Sheldon Souray). GM Scott Howson will meet with Commodore first before saying what they may do with him.
- AP in New York Times: Lamoriello says the NJ Devils are not rebuilding, but wouldn’t rule out future deals, but not Martin Brodeur.
- Fan 590 Audio: Brian Burke on HockeyCentral @ Noon talking about their victory over the Blues, “Ron Wilson’s job security, the progression of his young players and the struggles of Francois Beauchemin and Mike Komisarek.