On the Boston Bruins …
Jimmy Murphy: Two sources have said that yesterday’s Boston Bruins press conference scheduling wasn’t set by the Bruins PR department, but it was ordered from above.
Jimmy Murphy: Sources also saying that the Bruins could be jeopardy of losing two major sponsors. The timing of yesterday’s press conference isn’t the only reason, but it definitely didn’t help.
On the Colorado Avalanche, Anaheim Ducks, Ottawa Senators, Edmonton Oilers, Chicago Blackhawks, Toronto Maple Leafs, New York Rangers …
Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet: Colorado Avalanche GM Joe Sakic and Tampa Bay Lightning GM Steve Yzerman both were at the Anaheim Ducks – Florida Panthers game on Friday. The Lightning played the Ducks the next night, but both the Avs and Lightning are looking for a defenseman. The Ducks have depth on the blueline and are thought be looking for help at forward. The Avs are looking for a young defenseman with term, the Lightning looking for a top-four defenseman, and the Ducks have both.
It makes sense that the Ottawa Senators checked in on Avalanche forward Matt Duchene, but the Senators are not trading defenseman Thomas Chabot, so there may not be a match.
Teams called the Senators when they scratched Curtis Lazar. The Sens may not be willing to pull the trigger just yet.
The Avalanche could be one of the teams interested in Edmonton Oilers defenseman Brandon Davidson.
The Oilers could have some big bonuses overages next year, which could play a role in what they do at the deadline.
The Chicago Blackhawks want to keep their first round pick this year. They could look at Thomas Vanek if the Red Wings decide to move him.
Friedman wonders if Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Matt Hunwick would interest the New York Rangers. Hunwick is a left handed shot, so it may work for the Rangers.