Morning Hits: Franson, Gunnarsson, Tootoo, Hemsky and Armstrong

Mark Easson

11 years ago

Steve Simmons: Cody Franson trade rumors don’t make sense to Simmons unless the Maple Leafs started them in hopes of driving down his price. Paul Ranger was on an AHL deal last season and free to sign with anyone, at any point. 18 teams contacted him but he always said no. The Kings tried to get Jake Gardiner in the deal with the Leafs for Jonathan Bernier. They moved on to Carl Gunnarsson after it was apparent the Leafs wouldn’t move Gardiner. (Kings ended up getting Matt Frattin, Ben Scrivens and a pick)

Ansar Khan of MLive: The Red Wings have spoken with the Predators about Jordin Tootoo. The Red Wings have extra forwards and will be over the salary cap once they sign RFAs Gustav Nyquist and Joakim Andersson. They’ve been trying move some forwards for over a month. Tootoo has two-years left at $1.9 million a season. The Red Wings could use a big, skilled defenseman like Cody Franson. If he is available, it seems unlikely the Leafs would trade him within their division.

Lyle Richardson of Spector’s Hockey: Richardson wonders why anyone would trade for Ales Hemsky. Why would a GM want to give up an asset or two for someone who will make $5 million next year and has an injury history. If the OIlers were to eat half his salary, then maybe someone would be interested. If Hemsky is healthy and playing well, half way through the season teams may get interested.