News: Vanek, Burrows, Player Safety, Reinhart, Colaiacovo …

Mark Easson

10 years ago

Gary Craig: Gambling allegations that could involve Thomas Vanek. “Mark Ruff pleads guilty to laundering $230,000 payment that was gambling debt. According to plea, that payment went to Mark’s brother, Joe. Mark gets check from Joe, passes to unindicted co-conspirator in Conn., who then funnels money back to the Ruffs. $40,000 of money allegedly used by Joe Ruff, who faces charges, for wedding celebration at Irondequoit Country Club. That payment to Irondequoit Country Club has been seized. Mark Ruff’s lawyer, James Wolford, said $230,000 was a NY Islander check. Would not answer whether it was a players paycheck cut as payment. Wolford said Vanek apparently played for Islanders when payment was made. Vanek has been linked to the alleged gambling ring. Records seized from alleged bookmakers show payments from Vanek, sources have said. He testified before grand jury in Rochester. Government won’t answer whether $230,000 laundered NY Islander payment came from Vanek. Ruff attorney said was small % of total debt.”

Pierre LeBrun: Canucks Alex Burrows will have a phone hearing at 1:00 pm for his hit on Alexei Emelin.

Nick Cotson ika: Scott Stevens was interviewed by the NHL Player Safety department. Tom Gulitti: Owen Nolan and George Parros were also interviewed.

Philadelphia Flyers: The Flyers sign free agent defenseman Carlo Colaiacovo. Tim Panaccio: Colaiacovo gets a two-way, $650,000 deal. Sam Carchidi: The earliest Colaiacovo will play is Tuesday according to GM Ron Hextall.

Aaron Portzline: Blue Jackets have recalled Brian Gibbons and Sean Collins from the AHL.