On Kyle Okposo …
- Chad Graff of the Pioneer Press: Islanders Kyle Okposo is from Minnesota and friends are always asking if the pending UFA would consider returning home. Okposo said that he hasn’t really considered it. Okposo on contract talks.
“We haven’t had a lot of dialogue yet,” he said of potentially signing a new contract with the Islanders, and indications around the league point to him becoming an unrestricted free agent.
The Wild would need to create some cap space if they were to go after him this offseason.
Okposo on not having a contract for next year.
“Anybody that tells you they don’t think about it is lying,” Okposo said of his contract situation. “I’ve been thinking about it a little, but when I come down to rink and put my pads on, you just go out and play.”
Scouting the Detroit Red Wings – Colorado Avalanche game …
- Brendan Savage: 13 scouts from 11 teams at the Red Wings – Avs game: Rangers (2), Canadiens (2), Stars, Devils, Senators, Maple Leafs, Sabres, Capitals, Hurricanes, Blue Jackets and Flames.
On the Detroit Red Wings …
- Gregg Krupa of the Detroit News: Red Wings GM Ken Holland said that the standings are a bigger factor than the limited amount of cap space they have. If the right deal presents itself, Holland can likely make the cap work.
“I think if you want to do something bad enough, you can see around the league there’s a way to get creative — if you’re desperate enough or determined enough or in need enough,” Holland said.
Players like Andrew Ladd, Radim Vrbata and Kyle Okposo aren’t available just yet. The Maple Leafs are ready to sell and have P.A. Parenteau.
The Red Wings could use another top-four defenseman. Defenseman that might be available include Keith Yandle, Dan Hamhuis, Kris Russell and Justin Schultz.
“I haven’t really talked to other teams, to be honest with you,” Holland said after the morning skate before Friday’s game against the Avalanche. “No one is calling me, and I haven’t called anybody.
“I think if you look at the standings that answers why.
“You know, I’ve had the odd conversation, but I don’t sense there’s a whole lot going on around the league.”