On 2018 draft prospect Grigori Denisenko …
Igor Eronko: Draft prospect Grigori Denisenko said that “almost every” NHL team has been in contact with him. He has two years left on his contract. Denisenko said that he will attend the draft combine.
On NCAA Jimmy Schuldt …
Michael Russo: Have heard that NCAA free agent defenseman Jimmy Schuldt has decided to return to the St. Cloud State for his senior season.
On teams that could be tempted to trade their 2018 first round pick …
Chris Nichols of FRS Hockey: Elliotte Friedman and Jeff Marek’s 31 Thoughts Podcast were talking about potential high-end draft picks that could be in play.
Friedman believes there could be some interesting trade offers at that top of the draft. The Buffalo Sabres aren’t moving their pick, and the Carolina Hurricanes will likely keep theirs.
“But I do think Montreal is going to get tempted, and I think Ottawa is going to get tempted. And then I think Arizona will be interesting, because that’s after where the three forwards are going to go, and then I think Arizona is going to be in that spot where teams will be calling them too.
“I think 3, 4, and 5 are going to be fascinating.”
On potential big trades this offseason …
Chris Nichols of FRS Hockey: Elliotte Friedman and Jeff Marek’s 31 Thoughts Podcast were asked about what could be the biggest trade this offseason.
Friedman notes the Ottawa Senators could trade Erik Karlsson or Mike Hoffman.
Both Marek and Friedman mention that Montreal Canadiens winger Max Pacioretty could be traded.
Friedman mentions Jason Spezza, with Marek wondering if the new coach would change Spezza’s situation.
The Los Angeles Kings could be interested in Hurricanes forward Jeff Skinner according to Friedman.
“Last year there were blockbusters that came out of nowhere. Like what happens, if for argument’s sake – and I have no reason to believe this is happening – first of all, what happens if Tavares turns into a sign-and-trade. That’s your big one. But what happens if say Columbus feels that Panarin won’t sign there.”
Friedman thinks that Corey Perry could have at least another year left in Anaheim.
There is a lot of interest in Calgary Flames defenseman Dougie Hamilton and the Flames are going to try to do something.