- David Pagnotta: “Told by high-up NHL exec earlier in week that nothing related to expansion or Las Vegas will be close to finalized at this week’s meetings. “The prospect of a Vegas franchise is still alive and perhaps even progressing,” the NHL exec told me. That being said, he also said topic hasn’t been officially discussed w/ NHL’s Board yet. Will it be brought up this week? I expect it to. The NHL is not near ready to commit to expansion right now. But that will change in the coming months. The wheels are in motion. X-factor in all this, as I’ve been saying for a while, is AZ. Latest news this week is intriguing. Team says it’s on course. Some disagree. I’m sure there will be some informal discussions surrounding Quebec City, as well, this week. But like Vegas, don’t expect any announcements.”
“For those asking about Florida… While I’ve heard from others in league there are concerns, the same NHL exec told me they’re staying. Said NHL exec: “The team is not going anywhere for a long time. Ownership remains committed to South Florida and has long-term lease.” Take that for what you will. Biggest diff is ownership’s commitment levels compared to other teams in past. How long that lasts, who knows. Ownership could explore buyout on their lease, told that is an option. But NHL standing very firm that FLA isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Will say this about FLA, regarding empty seats. While it’s sad to see, market is a diff breed. Regardless of sport, if you suck, nobody goes. And while Panthers are pretty decent this season, they haven’t been in a while. Team marketing needs a major boost, clearly. Tough market.”
- Tom Gulitti: Devils Adam Larsson and Travis Zajac have both been tested for the mumps. GM Lou Lamoriello said that it will take five to seven days to rule out if it’s the mumps.
- Tom Gulitti: Devils GM Lou Lamorillo’s on Mike Cammalleri’s injury: “pulled a little muscle in his butt.”
- Rich Chere: Devils Martin Havlat will travel with the team to Carolina. Peter Harrold was recalled.
- Jon Rosen: Kings Marian Gaborik took part in line rushes and looks to be close to returning.
- Jameson Olive: Panthers coach Gerard Gallant on David Bolland: “He’s coming on the trip and hopefully we’ll have him in the lineup tomorrow night.”
- Bruce Garrioch: Senators Milan Michalek missed yesterday’s game with an upper-body injury.
- Bruce Garrioch: Senators Robin Lehner needed to rest his knee injury, he’s eligible to return on Tuesday.
- Mike Chambers of the Denver Post: Avs Jamie McGinn will have back surgery on Wednesday and will be out for the remainder of the season.
- Jeremy Rutherford: Martin Brodeur will start in net for the Blues.