Jason Robertson wanting more than Mikko Rantanen may force a trade
Nick Kypreos of Sportsnet: Dallas Stars pending RFA Jason Robertson is looking for more than Mikko Rantanen‘s $12 million, which may lead to his eventual trade. The Stars would be looking for players and not just picks and prospects. It may be more of an offseason move.
Maple Leafs prioritizing a right-handed D, but the lack of assets may lead them to the bargain bin
TSN: Chris Johnston thinks the Toronto Maple Leafs top priority is finding a right-handed defenseman, with Chris Tanev out. They are also checking out the trade market to see what forwards are available.
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“Now, the problem have had all year long, and it remains a hurdle, is that they can’t get into the big game stuff. They just don’t have the first-round picks and other assets that you’re seeing move in some of the larger trades we’ve had already this season. So it’s going to take some creativity. It may take some bargain hunting. But the Leafs are focused on a couple different fronts right now, when it comes to potential activity that they’d like to add players.”
Exploratory talks between the San Jose Sharks and Kiefer Sherwood
TSN: With the San Jose Sharks giving up two second-round picks for forward Kiefer Sherwood, you’d think they’d want to sign him to a contract extension, according to Chris Johnston.
“And I do think there have been some initial exploratory conversations, but the sides don’t necessarily see the world the same way just yet. And so this one might take a little bit of work and time for things to sort themselves out.”
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Johnston adds that Sherwood will likely start with Macklin Celebrini when he returns from injury, and that he’s likely willing to sign an extension, but it’s going to cost the Sharks. Not sure if the Sharks are ready to go that high just yet.
TSN: Johnston says that there is still a pretty big gap and hasn’t been much progress.
“There’s still some work that needs to be done there, and I think Sherwood is comfortable that he can push for as much as $30-million on a long term deal.”
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