- John Vogl of the Buffalo News: Sabres Thomas Vanek will be subject to trade speculation until he re-signs or is dealt. The Sabres are struggling, but he likes what the Sabres have.
“Right now I’m not ready, but I like where we’re heading,” the free agent-to-be said Monday. “I think there’s a lot of talent in this group. Only time and games will tell how good we can really be.”
Vanek on talk of him signing with the Wild in the offseason.
“The media and the outside people always have an opinion, just like I have my own opinion,” Vanek said. “That’s fine.”
- Craig Custance: Igor Larionov on Nail Yakupov KHL rumors: “Not even a single thought to go to the KHL at this moment. Not even a single one.” Rob Tychkowski: Yakupov was a healthy scratch again yesterday.
- Howard Berger: Has been told, with no details, that the Maple Leafs could be working on a trade involving a defenseman to clear up some cap space to ensure that Morgan Rielly remains with the team.
- Slava Malamud: Steve Montador’s “retirement” from the KHL may only be temporary and subject to if he’s able to recover from his injuries this year. The move was done to create roster space. He may return.