Elliotte Friedman of CBC: Justin Schultz is free to talk to all teams, but he’s not able to sign until July 1st. Friedman heard that the Ducks allowed a window for the Maple Leafs to try and sign Schultz at the draft, with the Ducks getting some compensation if they did. No side would discuss it. Schultz wants to test free agency, and is believed to be meeting with his agents to today to formulate a short list of teams. Some teams are wondering if the Ducks will file tampering charges if they sign him. Trading for a Robert Luongo will be a tough one for the Panthers. They believe Jacob Markstrom will be a difference-maker. It’s easier to build around the lower salary of Markstrom. Luongo to Toronto makes sense for all sides. Reports are that Luke Schenn was offered for Luongo, but the Canucks may have wanted the 5th overall pick. Will Cory Schneider get an offer sheet? 2 players that might get some offer sheet action are Sam Gagner and Shea Weber. If someone gives Gagner something between $3,364,391 and $5,046,585, it would cost a 1st and 3rd round pick. Friedman thinks that Rick Nash and Bobby Ryan will end up getting traded after Zach Parise signs. One GM said there are 8-10 good players available for trade. The Senators will be looking for a new partner for Erik Karlsson as it’s unlikely that Filip Kuba will return.
Blake Price via twitter: (via @NHLGossip) Pierre LeBrun said that Panthers ownership ok’d adding Luongo’s salary, as long as the trade makes sense. Pierre LeBrun via twitter: Clarifying his comments, Panthers GM Dale Tallon has full support from ownership but he’d still need to circle back to ownership for the green light if they can work out a deal.
Chip Alexander via twitter: Alexander thinks the Hurricanes have interest in Justin Schultz, Jason Garrison and may make an offer on Ryan Suter.
BD Gallof via twitter: Regarding the Islanders offering the Blue Jackets all their picks for the 2nd overall: the only people who can actually confirm what was said between GMs Garth Snow and Scott Howson are not confirming. Some believe that if it had truly been offered, Howson would have accepted.
