On Carter Hutton …
Pierre LeBrun: At least eight teams contacted pending UFA goaltender Carter Hutton yesterday. He had a .931 save percentage in 32 games last season. The list will need to be shortened over the next couple days and talks expanded.
Craig Custance: The Detroit Red Wings, Boston Bruins, Carolina Hurricanes, and St. Louis Blues are interested in Hutton. The Blues would have to go more than two years, but they may not be willing to do so.
Andy Strickland: (as of mid-afternoon yesterday) Close to 10 teams had been in contact with Hutton’s camp. He could be looking for a three-year deal.
Tom Gulitti: If the New York Islanders were to go the free agent route for goaltending help, wonders if they’ll be in on Hutton. Both Barry Trotz and and Mitch Korn (rumored to possibly be heading to New York) are familiar with Hutton from their days in Nashville.
Lou Korac: Blues GM Doug Armstrong said they spoke with Hutton and his reps already and they are prepared if he goes to free agency. Armstrong believes they have a good plan in place if Hutton decides to sign elsewhere.
On Rick Nash …
Aaron Portzline: The 34-year old pending UFA Rick Nash is looking for a multi-year deal. The Columbus Blue Jackets are at the top of Nash’s list. It’s possible that he re-signs with the Bruins or with another Stanley Cup contender.
Aaron Portzline: The Blue Jackets didn’t really kick tires on Nash at the trade deadline, but there appears to be more interest now.
On Ian Cole …
Aaron Portzline: The Blue Jackets and pending UFA defenseman Ian Cole have been talking extension and they hope to bring him back. Cole could test out the market to see what is out there.
On Jack Johnson …
Aaron Portzline: Potential landing spots for unrestricted free agent defenseman Jack Johnson are the Detroit Red Wings, Pittsburgh Penguins and possibly the Anahiem Ducks. The Red Wings and Penguins would likely need to clear some salary cap space.
On Mark Letestu …
Aaron Portzline: Blue Jackets pending UFA Mark Letestu will be testing out the free agent market but could circle back.