On the Columbus Blue Jackets …
Aivis Kalnins: As previously reported, hearing that Blue Jackets prospect Elvis Merzlikisn has headed to North America to meet with agents to decide on his future. He could sign with the Blue Jackets. He does have another year left on his contract.
On the New York Islanders …
Amar Basi: Nick Kypreos on Lou Lamoriello and John Tavares: “Talks with Tavares and Lamoriello, I heard they went well, at least he is interested in hearing what Lamoriello has to say…Listen, a week ago we thought there was no hope for Tavares to re-sign with NYI, at best now people are telling me, 50-50”
On the San Jose Sharks …
Irfaan Gaffar: Last night hearing that the San Jose Sharks and Evander Kane will be signing a seven-year contract extension worth around $7 million per season.
David Pagnotta: The Sharks – Kane deal should be finalized today.
John Wawrow: The Buffalo Sabres will get a first-round pick when Kane’s signing with the Sharks becomes official. It is a lottery protected 2019 first-round pick. If the Sharks miss the playoffs next year, it becomes an unprotected 2020 first-round pick.
On the Toronto Maple Leafs …
Amar Basi: Darren Dreger said he doesn’t believe the Maple Leafs will be in on UFA center John Tavares. He believes the top contenders for Tavares will be the Nashville Predators, St. Louis Blues, San Jose Sharks, Vegas Golden Knights and New York Islanders.
Darren Dreger: Agent Todd Diamond said that he hopes he’ll be able to talk to Maple Leafs GM Kyle Dubas soon about pending UFA Leo Komarov.
Aivis Kalnins: There has been speculation that Komarov could be heading back to the KHL but doesn’t believe there is any truth to that.
On the Vancouver Canucks …
Rick Dhaliwal: The Canucks still haven’t let pending UFA goaltender Richard Bachman if they are thinking about re-signing him or not. There are reports that he could be heading to Sweden and signing with Timra.