On the Detroit Red Wings …
Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: Red Wings GM Ken Holland flew to Toronto yesterday to meet with the agent for RFA Andreas Athanasiou. Holland wouldn’t comment on the contract negotiations.
The Red Wings offered Athanasiou one- and two-year deals. The two-year offer was for $1.9 million per season.
Athanasiou has a one-year offer from Ak Bars of the KHL for $3 million a season. Playing in the KHL would also allow Athanasiou to play in the Olympics.
Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: Athanasiou’s agent on Friday morning.
“that I can say that we are having productive discussions at this point that are a positive indication of the mutual desire to come to an agreement. I’m not saying we are anywhere near a decision or a deal but it’s positive.”
On Brian Gionta …
Leo Roth of the Rochester Democrat & Chronicle: 38-year old free agent forward Brian Gionta isn’t likely to be back with the Sabres according to his agent Steve Bartlett. Gionta recorded 35 points last season. He’s considering NHL offers but weighing them against having to move his wife and three kids.
“It’s not for lack of opportunities, teams want to sign him, but he has to decide if it fits into his family situation,’’ Bartlett said. “I think we’ll play it out awhile, see if anything changes in Buffalo, and then decide to go elsewhere or not. But it’s not like I don’t have opportunities for him to play, I do.’’
GM Jason Botterill had been considering bringing Gionta back on a reduced salary, but the trade for Jason Pominville earlier this offseason changed that.
Playing for Team USA in the Olympics could be one option for Gionta if he’s not playing in the NHL. If he retires, working for the Sabres in some capacity is also an option.
“Everything’s on his radar to be honest but he’s still skating and still preparing like he’ll play,’’ Bartlett said. “But yes, all options are on the table.’’