Leafs prospect Dzierkals decision soon
Aivis Kalnins: Source is saying that a decision on Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Martins Dzierkals could be made soon. Dzierkals has an option for Dinamo Riga of the KHL. He would rather sign with the Maple Leafs and have a spot in the AHL for next year.
Flyers offseason work almost over
Dave Isaac of the Courier Post: The Philadelphia Flyers are working getting restricted free agent defenseman Robert Hagg signed to a new deal.
“We’re looking at a two-year deal,” general manager Ron Hextall said. He expects a deal to be done before August. “Where Hagger’s at in his career, it seems to be a fair term. If he decides to sign his (qualifying offer of $874,125), that’s up to him.”
Flyers GM Ron Hextall expects that after Hagg is signed, they’ll be done for the summer. There is always the chance a trade offer comes up.
Hextall has noted they that they wouldn’t mind adding a penalty-killing forward. That may not come from the free agent market.
Blackhawks are having to look at the trade market more often than they had to in the past
Chris Kuc of The Athletic: It’s not as easy for the Chicago Blackhawks to lure free agents as it once was when they were a contender every season. GM Stan Bowman is having to look at the trade market more often to fill roster holes.
The Blackhawks could use some help on the blue line and a top-six forward. There is also the question market surrounding Corey Crawford‘s health.
The Marian Hossa trade gives the Blackhawks around $5.5 million in cap space to work with.
They were able to sign free agents Chris Kunitz, Brandon Manning, and Cam Ward this offseason.
“There isn’t one thing that we need to do,” Bowman said. “I think we’re always trying to make our team better. We were able to add some new players at different positions already. As we go along, if there’s a player that’s going to make our team better then we’re going to pursue it.”
