On the Edmonton Oilers …
John Shannon: Even though they won last night, have to think that after that third period, GM Peter Chiarelli could enter the goalie market. May only be for a short-term goalie.
Jim Matheson: Won’t be a surprise if the Oilers trade Anton Slepyshev.
On the Buffalo Sabres …
The Fourth Period: Though nothing is imminent, and it could be weeks away, the Sabres appear to be getting closer to the point of trading winger and pending UFA Evander Kane. GM Jason Botterill is going to be looking to maximize is return. Pierre LeBrun said this week that the Sabres are willing to retain salary.
The Sabres and Kane have been linked to the Tampa Bay Lightning, New York Rangers, New York Islanders, St. Louis Blues and Washington Capitals.
Other Sabres who have been apart of trade speculation so far this season include Matt Moulson, Sam Reinhart, Benoit Pouliot, Josh Gorges, Robin Lehner and Chad Johnson.
On the Toronto Maple Leafs …
Steve Simmons: Some were wondering why the Maple Leafs didn’t trade Tyler Bozak or James van Riemsdyk for then Ducks defenseman Sami Vatanen. GM Bob Murray, or any other GM, wouldn’t trade a defenseman like Vatanen who is signed for two more years for a pending UFA like Bozak or van Riemsdyk.
It might have taken Nazem Kadri or Connor Brown and something else. Adam Henrique seems like a better fit for the Ducks than what the Leafs could have offered.
Kevin McGrann of the Toronto Star: (mailbag) GM Lou Lamoriello doesn’t have a contract beyond this season, but it shouldn’t be a surprise if they already have agreed to terms on an extension and to announce it during their ‘bye’ week.
When they move on from Lou, or when he moves on, Mark Hunter or Kyle Dubas are current internal options. A potential outside option would be Ken Holland, who is also without a contract for next year.