On the Montreal Canadiens, Calgary Flames, Buffalo Sabres, and the Ottawa Senators …
Chris Nichols of FanRag Sports: Bob McKenzie on TSN 690 on Friday was asked about the trade value for Montreal Canadiens forward Tomas Plekanec if they decided to become sellers at the deadline. McKenzie says he’d have some value but believes it’s important for the Canadiens to make the playoffs. Plekanec is on an expiring contract. Where would Plekanec fit in with the other rentals?
“And then you say to yourself, ‘Hmm. Is it worth trading Tomas Plekanec for a second-round pick,’ or a third-round pick, or whatever the market value is set at the time. And then you make an easy decision based on that.”
Elliotte Friedman was on Sportsnet 960 and said that he believes the Flames are looking for a winger.
“I think he’s looking for somebody who can play high up in the lineup,” said the Insider. “Somebody who can score. I don’t want to start any specific rumors or anything like that, but I could see a Kane-like kind of guy. I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s one of the teams checking in on Evander.”
Friedman notes that it may not be easy for the Flames to do after the draft picks they’ve already given up for Travis Hamonic. The Sabres would likely be looking for picks in a deal. Would Flames GM Brad Treliving be willing to move one of his goalie or defense prospects?
Pierre LeBrun on TSN 1040 on if he’s heard Evander Kane and the Flames being linked together.
“Not for Calgary I don’t think,” said LeBrun. “They’re fairly good on that side, I think, on the wing. But they do need some top-six help elsewhere, I think. And it’s not something that suddenly has become an idea to the Flames. I think they’ve thought about this for awhile.
“Again, I think the tough part for Calgary is what’s the right fit. With Ottawa dangling some of their forwards, I mean is that a place where teams like Calgary and Vancouver can look. Perhaps. But again, I don’t think anything is imminent.”
Elliotte Friedman was on 630 CHED and said that the Ottawa Senators are getting lots of phone calls. They’ve been asked about Mike Hoffman, Cody Ceci, and Matt Duchene. Don’t believe they are interested in trading Erik Karlsson and Mark Stone right now.