Flames lock up Noah Hanifin for six years
NHL.com: The Calgary Flames have signed defenseman Noah Hanifin to a six-year contract at $29.7 million – a $4.95 million salary cap hit.
“It’s a big commitment,” Hanifin said. “I know it took a bit of time, was a bit of a process, but I was confident. I knew it’d get done. I wanted to be in Calgary really badly. And obviously with the situation there, it’s been a busy off-season for (general manager) Brad and the entire staff there.”
The Flames acquired Hanifin and Elias Lindholm for Dougie Hamilton, Adam Fox, and Michael Ferland back in June.
Cap Friendly: Hanifin’s six-year contract will buy two unrestricted free agency years.
Kings top prospect Gabriel Vilardi doubtful for rookie tournament
Josh Cooper of The Athletic: Los Angeles Kings prospect Gabriel Vilardi is “probably doubtful” for their rookie camp that gets underway next week according to GM Rob Blake. Blake added that Vilardi’s back issues are “definitely a concern.”
Vilardi’s back limited him to 32 games with Kingston of the OHL last year where he recorded 58 points. He added 22 points in 16 playoff games.
If Vilardi makes the Kings out of camp, he could start on the wing, but long-term he’ll likely be at center.
“I would add I think everybody has been very careful and smart. We’re going to be patient with this kid,” Kings president Luc Robitaille said.
GM Blake added that defenseman Derek Forbort suffered a back injury this offseason, but they won’t know his status until training camp.
Dennis Bernstein: GM Rob Blake on Gabe Vilardi: “(Vilardi) has a back injury he is going to have to take care all of the time…for us to give him the understanding that he has to work on this every single day…we need him training in the summer rather than rehabbing”
Jets sign RFA JC Lipon
Ken Wiebe: The Jets have signed RFA forward JC Lipon to a one-year, two-way deal at $650,000. The Jets will have two RFAs left to sign – Josh Morrissey and Eric Comrie.
Ken Wiebe: Lipon will get $150,000 in the minors with $210,000 guaranteed.