On the Arizona Coyotes …
Sarah McLellan of the Arizona Republic: Contract talks between RFA winger Tobias Rieder are ongoing. Agent Darren Ferris said they are not close to a deal.
Contract talks with RFA defenseman Connor Murphy started last week according to his agent Brian Bartlett. Talks are ongoing .
On the Toronto Maple Leafs …
Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun: After the Maple Leafs sales pitch to the Steven Stamkos during the interview process, he told his advisors “no more meetings.”
Stamkos spoke with the Canadiens and Sabres before he spoke with the Maple Leafs, and nobody after. The Red Wings were very interested in Stamkos, and they never got a phone call.
“I think they scared him off,” said an NHL executive.
The Maple Leafs have been able to trade the ‘untradeable’ contracts of David Clarkson, Dion Phaneuf, Phil Kessel and Jonathan Bernier – clearing $23.1 million in salary. Will the Leafs be able to trade Joffrey Lupul and his $5+ million a year?
If the Maple Leafs don’t trade for a goalie, free agent options include Joni Ortio, Anders Lindback and Jhonas Enroth.
On the San Jose Sharks …
Kevin Kurz of CSN Bay Area: After the free agent signings of Mikkel Boedker and David Schlemko, it could mean that the Sharks might move at least one player. Five players who could be traded:
Tommy Wingles – one year left at a $2.475 million.
Matt Nieto – a RFA who recorded 17 points in 67 games last year.
Patrick Marleau – likely out of their top-six and he may not be happy with that. One year left at $6.67 million. The Sharks might have to retain some salary.
Brenden Dillon – was effective last season, but struggled in the playoffs. Four years left at $3.27 million.
Mirco Mueller – after signing Schlemko, they could dangle the 2013 first round pick as trade bait. Doesn’t look like there is much room for him on the blueline this season or next.
