On the Detroit Red Wings …
Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press: Detroit Red Wings GM Ken Holland said that they are interested in re-signing forward Darren Helm, and Helm has said he wouldn’t mind staying. Helm has played up and down the Red Wings lineup, and he wanted to the discuss that instability before making a decision.
The 29-year Helm knows he’ll get plenty of interest on the open market due to speed – which could include the Washington Capitals and St. Louis Blues. He’s coming off a four-year deal with a $2.125 million cap hit.
On Alexander Radulov …
Chris Nichols of Today’s Slapshot: Bob McKenzie on TSN 690 on if he thinks Alexander Radulov will return to the NHL, and what it may cost a team to sign him.
“Well, I know Darren Dreger reported last week the Wings offered him a one-year deal at $4 million which, for me, I think that’s a real fair offer. I’m sure he wants two years, and I’m sure he’d like to get $7.5 million (per season). I’d be surprised if anybody is going to give it to him. Maybe somebody will give him a two-year contract. I know I wouldn’t.
“I mean given his history – he’s a talented guy, but obviously the last go-round with Nashville was embarrassing for everybody concerned. And if I’m not mistaken, and correct me if I’m wrong, but I don’t think he was named to the World Cup team for the Russians, with Kovalchuk, and there’s a reason for that too. He’s a talented guy. He should be on the team. The ability to be a team guy and get along with people and what have you…”
McKenzie thinks that most teams will only want to give him a one-year deal and not two, as they’ll want to see what he can bring to the team