Mark Everson of the NY Post: There hasn’t been a lot of negotiations between the New Jersey Devils and Ilya Kovalchuk. The Devils have a track record of waiting to late on re-signing some of their key UFAs. Kovalchuk turned down $10 million a year from Atlanta, but would Lou go that high? Everson thinks they should be making an offer before he possibly bolts for the Rangers (I don’t see how they’d fit his salary in) or Russia (he better not for my keeper fantasy teams sake). I can see the Blues making a run at him if he opts for free agency.
Chuck Gormley of the Courier Post: Jeff Carter could be back in the Flyers lineup before the end of the regular season. Their 4th backup goalie, Johan Backluns is still day-to-day with a groin injury. Michael Leighton has started skating (out with high ankle sprain) but won’t be ready until the start of the playoffs at the earliest. Ray Emery will be undergoing bone graff surgery on his leg and hip tomorrow, which will hopefully save his career.
Chuck Gormley of the Courier Post: The Flyers goaltending situation is in flux this season, and the off-season will bring plenty of different decisions for the team. Ray Emery’s career could be over. Michael Leighton is a UFA. Brian Boucher has 1 year left on his contract. Johan Backlund is 28, unproven, and a UFA at seasons end. The Flyers will most likely talk to the Canadiens about Carey Price, but what would the cost be? Other Flyer free agents are Dan Carcillo, Arron Asham, Darroll Powe, Braydon Coburn, Ryan Parent and Lucas Krajicek.
Shelly Anderson of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: The Penguins signing of Kris Letang yesterday shouldn’t affect Sergei Gonchar re-signing with the Penguins. “This doesn’t affect Sergei at all,” Shero said of the Letang deal. “This is part of our plan, to sign Kris Letang. I’m hoping we can have Sergei back and, hopefully, after the season we can continue those discussions. has been a fantastic player here for five years, and, hopefully, we’ll have him for more.” Talks between Gonchar’s agent and Shero will resume after the season. The Penguins won’t have a ton of money, so Gonchar will not get the same amount as he would if he explored the free agent market.
Jeff Gordon of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: The St. Louis Blues may look at making some changes to their blueline this off-season. The Blues may look at moving Eric Brewer (1 year, $4.5 million left) and Barrett Jackman (2 years, $7.5 million left). Carlo Colaiacovo and Mike Weaver are UFAs, and Darryl Sydor could retire.
Shelly Anderson of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: Both Sergei Gonchar and Evgeni Malkin practiced yesterday, with Gonchar more likely to play tonight. They will take the morning skate to see how it goes, then make a decision from there.
Robyn Norwood of the LA Times: Ryan Getzlaf (sprained left ankle) and Jonas Hiller (back spasms) will miss tonight’s game against the Avalanche.
Steve Conroy of the Boston Herald: The Boston Bruins have signed 2008 1st round pick (16th overall), Joe Colbourne to a 3 year entry level contract. Colbourne will report to the AHL Providence Bruins. It is reportedly worth $787,500 base with bonuses that could make it $1.1 million.
Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun: The Toronto Maple Leafs will be one of eleven teams that will be wearing a new jersey design next year. Anaheim, Calgary, Columbus, Dallas, NY Islanders, NY Rangers, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.
