- Bob McKenzie via twitter: Brian Burke said “I have never spoken to Doug Wilson on that. Total fabrication.” Burke was responding to internet rumors of a possible deal with the Sharks involving Joe Thornton.
- Rich Chere of the Star-Ledger: Jason Arnott has already stated he’d waive his no-trade clause, and is unsure where he’ll finish the season. “I think I have to just go out and play,” he said. “The trade deadline is coming up. I’m sure it will come quicker than normal. I just have to wait and see.”
- Will DePaoli via twitter: Coach Dan Bylsma said that Evgeni Malkin won’t play tonight but he’s traveling with the team.
- Iain MacIntyre of the Vancouver Sun: Alex Edler underwent micro discectomy surgery on Monday, hopes to be back by the end of the regular season, though GM Mike Gillis said that is unlikely, as it could be 3 months to recover. Sami Salo still doesn’t know when he’ll be able to return, he’s been practicing for 5 weeks. Andrew Alberts could be back on Friday, Aaron Rome could be ready next week.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: Avalanche winger David Jones will be out indefinitely with a shoulder injury that he suffered in the final game before the all-star break. Peter Forsberg’s next practice is scheduled for Wednesday.
- Pat Hickey of the Montreal Gazette: The Montreal Canadiens have about $3.5 million in cap space after the season ending injuries to Markov and Gorges. Do they go after a top 6 forward like a Richards, Arnott or Weiss? Or after a defenseman like Robyn Regehr?
- Chris Johnston via twitter: Jordin Tootoo has been cleared to practice after spending time in the leagues substance abuse and behavioral health program.
- Andy Strickland via twitter: St. Louis Blues forward Andy MacDonald will return to the lineup Friday.
- Larry Brooks via twitter: Vinny Prospal could be making his season debut on Thursday. Ryan Callahan is in tonight, Brandon Dubinsky is a possibility.
- Jonas Siegel via twitter: JS Giguere will start in net for the Maple Leafs tonight vs. the Panthers. George Richards via twitter: Scott Clemmensen will be in net for the Panthers.