Erik Erlendsson via Twitter: The Tampa Bay Lightning are getting calls about the 6th overall pick, but Yzerman doesn’t want to move down too far, or maybe not at all.
Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer: If one of Gudbranson, Fowler, or Gormley get to the Carolina Hurricanes at #7, they will most likely select them, but GM Rutherford doesn’t think any will be around. If they are forced to select a forward, it could be a centerman, with them possibly eyeing Ryan Johansen or Alex Burmistrov. Winger Brett Connolly could be the wild card if he drops.
Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: The Dallas Stars will be going with “drafting the best player available” approach, but if 2 players are close, they’ll go with the defenseman. Some believe they might consider Jack Campbell if he’s available. After the big 3 defenseman that will be gone by the 11th pick, the next group of Dmen are: Derek Forbort, Jon Merril, Dylan McIlrath and Jarred Tinordi. Derek Forbort and Dylan McIlrath are more in the range of the Stars pick than Merril and Tinordi.
George Richard of the Miami Herald: The Florida Panthers may be open to trading their 15th overall pick that they acquired from the Boston Bruins in the Nathan Horton trade. The Edmonton Oilers and Pittsburgh Penguins may be interested in it.
JP Hoornstra of the LA Daily News: There is the possibility that the LA Kings could send their #19 overall pick to New Jersey for the rights to Ilya Kovalchuk. If they keep the pick, they’ll most likely target a winger.
Chris McCosky of the Detroit News: The Red Wings plan on drafting the best player available at #21, but don’t expect a goalie. Holland didn’t rule out moving up or down in the draft.
Frank Seravalli of the Philadelphia Daily News: The Philadelphia Flyers don’t pick until 3rd round, 89th overall. GM Paul Holmgren didn’t rule out trading up to grab a player they feel has dropped, but isn’t actively looking to move up.
