George Malik of MLive: If Nicklas Lidstrom retires, Brian Rafalski could step up into a larger role. One option available for the Red Wings would be to call up the Maple Leafs and see what it would take for Tomas Kaberle. They could also look at 2nd tier defenseman like Henrik Tallinder, Toni Lydman, Derek Morris, Joe Corvo, and Kim Johnsson.
Ansar Khan of MLive: There are mixed reports on if Steve Yzerman is still considered a candidate or interested in the Tampa Bay Lightning GM position. It was report earlier that he wasn’t interested, but that may not be the case. When asked about it, “My response has always been not to comment,” Yzerman said. That might lead one to speculate that it’s still an option for him.
Mike Brophy of Sportsnet: The Sharks are down 3-0, and it will take a miracle for them to come back and win the series versus the Blackhawks. Big changes could be coming from them in the off-season. Odds are looking good that Patrick Marleau won’t be back with the Sharks next season. Evgeni Nabokov is 34 and a UFA, and despite solid regular season numbers, he has a history of not performing in the playoffs. No one questions Joe Thornton’s talent, but the playoffs have a tendency of not bringing out the best of him, he’s a -10 heading into last night. GM Doug Wilson will also be on the hotseat as he’s the one who’s put together this team that has had some playoff woes the past couple seasons.
