On the Colorado Avalanche, Anaheim Ducks, Toronto Maple Leafs, Dallas Stars, Columbus Blue Jackets, Edmonton Oilers and Ottawa Senators …
Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet: The Colorado Avalanche’s window to hire Kyle Dubas had already closed before the story broke that Avs were interested in him. It sounded like he had a chance at getting the job, but the Maple Leafs changed their mind. Mark Hunter appears to be ahead of Dubas as Lou Lamoriello’s replacement when he decides to retire.
Dubas’ spot with the Leafs is a bit up in the air as his contract is up at the end of the month. A source said that he may have already signed a contract extension.
The Avs are expected to hire Jussie Parkkila as their next goaltender coach. He as a history with Semyon Varlamov, so it’s expected they will protect Varlamov and expose Calvin Pickard. They may now look to trade Pickard as opposed to losing him for nothing. He has a year left at $1 million.
One source on Avs defenseman Tyson Barrie: “He’s available, but it’s got to be a legitimate hockey trade.”
Ducks defenseman Sami Vatanen has a torn labrum and he could be out longer than Hampus Lindholm who is out for four to five months. The Ducks and Cam Fowler are expected to work on an extension.
If GM Bob Murray moves a defensman, it likely won’t be Lindholm, and he may not want to do a deal with a team in the West … unless he’s interested in the Dallas Stars 3rd overall pick. has heard the Ducks really like Calgary Flames forward Sam Bennett.
can’t see the Maple Leafs wanting to trade Connor Brown. Lamoriello and coach Mike Babcock scouted the Predators – Ducks. Dave Nonis (scout with the Ducks) also really likes Brown.
Stars GM Jim Nill said he’s open to the idea of trading the 3rd overall pick and has let it be known that he’s looking for a defenseman. The Ducks, Blue Jackets and Minnesota could be trade partners. The Jets might be a partner if they are willing to move Jacob Trouba, but doesn’t think it makes sense to move him.
Blue Jackets GM Jarmo Kekalainen said on Friday that they are looking for “A sniper in the key moments.” Kekalainen has zero concerns about his cap situation situation.
Don’t be surprised if Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers do a five-year deal.
Though they may not want to trade him, there has been some interest in Coyotes goaltender Mike Smith. They can ask him for a list of eight teams he won’t accept a trade too.
Ben Scrivens and David Booth are looking to return to the NHL after spending last year in the KHL.
It sounds like there is a big gap between the Ottawa Senators and backup goalie Mike Condon.
