On the Lightning, Flames, Red Wings and Wild …
- Dan Rosen of NHL.com: (mailbag) After talking with Steven Stamkos during the All-Star break, Rosen believes he really does want to stay in Tampa Bay and that Lightning, especially owner Jeff Vinik, want to get an extension done.
- It’s hard to say were the Flames will be at, at the trade deadline. They’ve been up and down this season, but a good stretch put them right in the playoff hunt in the Pacific division. If the Flames fall out of the race, they could look to move pending UFAs in Jiri Hudler and Kris Russell. They need to find better goaltending and could use some depth up front.
- Rosen thinks the Red Wings should look to add some depth. GM Ken Holland isn’t shy about making trades, but they don’t have a lot of cap space.
- Wild GM Chuck Fletcher indicated over the All-Star weekend that they may already have the answers within their organization, and his preference may be avoid making a significant trade. If things don’t change soon, they may have to look outside their organization for scoring help. Rosen thinks that Kyle Okposo would be a good fit if they go the trade route.
On the Carolina Hurricanes …
- Michael Smith of Hurricanes.NHL.com: (mailbag) The Hurricanes have played themselves into the playoff race. They could acquire some valuable assets if they decide to move the expiring contracts in Eric Staal, Cam Ward, Kris Versteeg and John Michael-Liles. Some of these players may be in their long-term plans. Don’t expect them to move off of their long-term plans for a chance to make the playoffs.
On the Boston Bruins …
- Eklund of Hockey Buzz: Two sources said the Bruins may have been close to trading for Dennis Wideman before his run in with the linesman. If the Bruins feel the suspension is “within reason,” a deal could still be worked out. It could end up being a multiple player deal and involve either Loui Eriksson or Malcolm Subban.
Scouting the Colorado Avalanche – Chicago Blackhawks game on Tuesday …
- Adrian Dater: Scouting the Avs-Blackhawk: the Maple Leafs and Canadiens.