- David Pagnotta: Coyotes GM Don Maloney said that serious contract negotiations with Mike Smith won’t happen until their ownership situation is settled.
- Carlos Monarrez of the Detroit Free Press: The Red Wings and Jimmy Howard have basically agreed on a six-year contract extension for $31.8 million. He expects to officially sign deal by the end of the weekend, and only the “little stuff” is left.
“To be honest, it really hasn’t (worried me),” he said. “Like last time we went through this, it really did weigh (on me). But I think with it being such a condensed schedule and so many games being played in a short amount of time, I haven’t really had much time to think about it.”
- David Pagnotta: The goalie trade market this summer should be something to watch: Roberto Luongo, Ryan Miller and Jonathan Bernier.
- Josh Cooper: Predators GM David Poile said the Filip Forsberg could be there for the teams morning skate on Sunday and he could play on Monday.
- Tim Panaccio: For the Flyers to buyout out Daniel Briere, it would cost them $3.3 million and spread out over four years. He said that he’s playing to remain with the Flyers, but understands the situation.
“Definitely,” he said. “It’s reality. There’s no doubt about it. But at the same time, those are things I can’t control at this moment. All I can control is for me to come back into the lineup and play as good as I can, to show them. Other than that, I can’t worry about injuries or what they are going to decide to do. That’s out of my control at this point.
“It was agreed by both the players and owners. So no, I can’t complain about that. I end up being the one to pay the price. But you know what, there have been so many good things that turned in my favor over the years that I won’t complain about that.”
Briere carries a $6.5 million salary cap hit. When asked if he thought amnesty on him would be unfair, he responded with:
“I don’t think so,” Briere said. “With missing half a season, everyone understands revenues were going to do down. A lot of teams already had prepared for two, three, four seasons ahead. So those teams were going to pay the price. … It’s a chance for them to … help them out with the new CBA.”