On Jarome Iginla …
Jimmy Murphy: Nick Kypreos reported again over the weekend that Jarome Iginla is still hoping to return to the NHL. Iginla is living in the Boston area to be close to his kids. Would be interesting to see if he and the Bruins have a mutual interest.
Jimmy Murphy: Kypreos also noted that the Pittsburgh Penguins could use some leadership in their dressing room. Could see a potential Iginla return in Pittsburgh as well. Worth watching.
On the Calgary Flames …
Luke Fox: Brian Burke said that the Flames “spent a lot of time” evaluating both Jaromir Jagr and Jarome Iginla this past offseason.
On the New York Rangers …
Larry Brooks of the NY Post: The NY Rangers re-signed Brendan Smith to a four-year contract with a $4.35 million cap hit after acquiring him from the Red Wings at the deadline. He’s been a healthy scratch for five straight, and seven of their first 19 games this season.
If the Rangers don’t think he’s a fit any longer, they could look for the best return for him and move on from the re-signing.
On the Arizona Coyotes …
Jared Clinton of The Hockey News: Arizona Coyotes GM John Chayka recently shot down Oliver Ekman-Larsson rumors to Craig Morgan of Arizona Sports.
“I’ve been on the record numerous times about the subject and have been very clear,” Chayka told Morgan. “I haven’t had a single conversation about Oliver that has lasted more than five seconds.”
Despite Chayka’s comments, you have to think the Coyotes may have to at least consider the idea of seeing what the return Ekman-Larsson might be. The price can obviously change between now and say the trade deadline next year.
When Kevin Shattenkirk was dealt as a pending UFA he netted the St. Louis Blues a first round draft pick (and a conditional pick – conditions not met) and a prospect.
Matt Duchene – also a year from unrestricted free agency – landed the Colorado Avalanche seven pieces.
Ekman-Larsson is eligible to sign a contract extension after July 1 and will be looking for a raise from his current $5.5 million per season. He’ll be looking for at least $6.5 million per, maybe in the $7.5 million range if the cap goes up.