Where Will Barry Trotz land?
Rory Boylen of Sportsnet opines about what could be next for Barry Trotz. After the New York Islanders, there are few, if any, fits. Even if teams would consider an upgrade, what would the price tag be? That is a huge question.
Consider teams like Buffalo and Minnesota. Would Phil Housely step back to the assistant role? Could Minnesota start with the coach? If Bruce Boudreau were to be dismissed, the Wild would hire Boudreau in three minutes. Seattle is likely the most far-fetched option given Dave Tippett has already been brought in. Trotz probably does not want to wait to coach a team again.
So, the blueprint for Drew Doughty and aiming to win…
Lisa Dillman of The Athletic LA: Rob Blake knows he must find a way to sign Drew Doughty so naturally a pitch was in order. The explanation was simple. Blake conveyed a win now approach. Doughty will be signed. He will be an unrestricted free agent in 2019. Everything else is secondary but can be explored.
Blake mentioned that Coach John Stevens is holding meetings with players throughout the summer and starting the process of gauging interest for draft picks, etc. With the free agency window coming up, Blake knows he has to compete hard to find the right fits.
Speaking of Los Angeles…
John Hoven of Mayor’s Manor looks at what is next for Los Angeles. With the Andy Andreoff trade, that clears up a roster spot for a forward. Assistant general manager Mike Futa will be looked on as almost more of a talent coordinator. As things stand, the Kings have $72 million allocated to 23 players so there is room for Futa. He can look inside and outside.
Gabe Vilardi appears to be starting the season on the wing. The organization plan is for him to be a center.
Blake and Futa are actively searching for a LW1. They have inquired about Ilya Kovalchuk and Jeff Skinner among others. Los Angeles would like to become younger and faster. Adding older players is not ideal which makes Skinner more attractive.
Finally, it is clear that Slava Voynov will not play for the Kings again.
Boston has an opportunity
Steve Conroy of the Boston Herald: With general managers heading to Dallas this week for the draft, the time to strike may be now for Don Sweeney. Boston needs a left defenseman, a durable right winger, and a decision on Anton Khudobin.
Ilya Kovalchuk’s name is being speculated in Boston and it appears Boston has some interest. That would help the wing.
Noah Hanifin could be a player targeted. Don’t read into the Jake DeBrusk is untouchable vibe. Even Torey Krug could be expendable at this point.
The biggest question may be Anton Khudobin. Boston needs a backup and Khudobin is a UFA. The goalie remains a week away from talking to other teams. Sweeney acts now or he may have to explore limited options.