- Colorado Avalanche: J.S. Giguere has officially retired from the NHL. The 37-year old goaltender played in 597 regular season games, winning 262 of them. He ended up with a 2.53 GAA and .913 save percentage. During the playoffs he went 33-17 with a 2.08 GAA and .925 save percentage. He won the Cup in 2007 and won the Conn Smythe Trophy in a losing cause in 2003 with the Ducks.
- Elliotte Friedman of CBC: Tim Leiweke had an “out” clause in his contract with MLSE sometime around the end of the 2014-15 NHL/NBA seasons. He’ll be leaving to set up his own company. MSLE knew about that, and had heard other rumors involving MSG, Comcast, LA Clippers, etc. The MLSE board wanted to know his commitment level to them with so many new projects coming up. Leiweke told the board two months ago that he would only commit to June 30th, 2015. They announced yesterday that they will be searching for a new CEO.
- John Shannon: With the MLSE landscape changing, don’t be surprised if there is more talk of Larry Tanenbaum taking on a more hands on role.
- Hope Smoke: Darren Dreger: “It’s surprising that this Leiweke news is out considering the news earlier this week.” … “I can only speak to the exchange I had with Leiweke on Tuesday where he made it abundantly clear he was staying.” … “On Tuesday Leiweke wanted that rumour snuffed out.” … “Leiweke will be here until June 2015 or less. I’d bet heavily on the less. Had some who think he’s gone by Christmas.” … “Leiweke is not willing to go through the process with me of where we are now and where we were on Tuesday ” … “I’m not sure the replacement of Leiweke is a one-man job” … “Everyone, especially Nonis, expected the Leafs to hire a person for the role that Shanahan ultimately was given.” … “There were some who think Shanahan was hired to replace Leiweke.” … “I don’t think Shanahan would feel comfortable to take over everything that is under the business umbrella of MLSE.” … “If Bob Nicholson hadn’t jumped to join the Oilers we’d be talking about him as a candidate.” … “It would have to be someone who has a sound background in sports management.”