On the Detroit Red Wings …
Ansar Khan of MLive: (mailbag) Jimmy Howard isn’t going anywhere this offseason, and likely not during next season either. The Red Wings are planning on having Jared Coreau backup Petr Mrazek in 2017-18.
If Las Vegas doesn’t select Howard in the expansion draft, he might be easier to trade after next season as he will have only two years left on his deal. A buyout after next season is also possible.
The asking price for Jacob Trouba is probably more than what the Red Wings have, or would be more than what they would want to give up for him.
At the moment, Ducks defenseman Cam Fowler could be the most likely trade candidate. Avs Tyson Barrie is also a possibility.
Doubtful that Johan Franzen will be cleared to play again.
On the Boston Bruins …
Joe Haggerty of CSNNE: The Bruins have just over $8 million in salary cap space and are still looking for a puck moving top-four defenseman. Five remaining free agents that could be options for the Bruins:
Kris Russell – he was initially looking for a five year, $30 million deal. Reports are that he turned down a four year offer from the Leafs at around $4.3 million per season. Would expect the Bruins to be interested at the right price.
James Wisniewski – only played one game last season due to a knee injury. Could look at a one year deal.
Justin Schultz – Schultz played well in a reduced role after being acquired by the Penguins at the trade deadline. Could be a bargain signing for someone on a one or two year deal.
Jiri Hudler – scored 31 goals and 76 points just two years ago, and recorded 46 points last year. Mostly invisible during the Panthers five playoff games.
Luke Schenn – the right handed defensman is not much of an upgrade over Adam McQuaid or Kevan Miller.