- Ken Warren of the Ottawa Citizen: Jason Spezza tweaked his groin in Wednesday’s practice, sat out yesterday, and it’s unsure if he’ll go in tonight’s opener. The Ottawa Senators also play tomorrow in Toronto and against the Capitals on Monday. The Senators won’t rush him back in fear of causing a longer term injury. Spezza didn’t talk to media but Clouston doesn’t seem that concerned about it. If Spezza is a no go, Ryan Shannon will step in.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Sheldon Souray is expected to report to the AHL’s Hersey Bears today. It’s unsure if he’ll play in any games this weekend as he hasn’t really had a training camp. Bears coach doesn’t know when Souray will suit up, they’ll have a better idea after he arrives. The Oilers may leave him in the minors all season, not putting him on re-entry waivers.I personally think this goes beyond the money/trade demand aspect. I believe it’s also about making a statement for players coming to Edmonton (and current Oilers) then deciding they don’t want to play there. Players publicly saying they are unhappy or asking for a trade, basically handcuffing the team (something they tried to take advantage of last year with Danny Heatly). It may also send a message to other players on other teams to be careful what you wish for, as the consequences may not end up in your favor.
- Nick Kypreos via twitter: Souray is costing the Edmonton Oilers $25,000 a day to with the Hershey Bears. Kypreos thinks he’ll be re-entry waivers within 2 weeks, possibly saving the team half his salary/cap if he’s claimed.
- Brad Ziemer of the Vancouver Sun: After Cody Hodgson practiced with the Canucks yesterday, he was assigned to the Manitoba Moose and will be in the lineup for them tonight. Peter Schaefer received a 2 way deal from the Canucks, $600,000 NHL, $105,000 AHL. The Canucks could announce their new captain Saturday night.
- Michael Russo via twitter: James Sheppard’s agent confirms that his client has been suspended by the Minnesota Wild for his off-season injury. Sheppard is on non-roster IR, not being being paid, not on Wild cap, but they are helping him with rehab.
- Jeff Klein of the NY Times: New York Rangers forward Tim Kennedy’s future is up in the air. He cleared waivers on Wednesday, but still remains with the club as an extra forward. When Chris Drury and Vinny Prospal return possibly later this month, his situation becomes even foggier.