On the Edmonton Oilers …
David Staples of the Edmonton Jouranl: Elliotte Friedman was on CHED 630 talking with host Bob Stauffer, and wondered if the Oilers would do a Jordan Eberle for Jason Demers deal? Demers visited the Oilers last offseason when he was a free agent.
“There was a time it looked like he was going there (to Edmonton),” Friedman said.
“I think Demers is a guy who could be available.”
notes that this was a discussion/speculation and not a trade rumor.
Jim Matheson: Not sure why the Oilers would want Demers at $4.5 million for another four years. They have top pair in Adam Larsson and Oscar Klefbom who make $4.1 million each.
Jim Matheson: With Andrej Sekera out for six to nine months, the Oilers really need to re-sign Kris Russell. If he’s looking for more than three years and $4 million per season, could be a non-starter.
On the Buffalo Sabres …
Aivis Kalnins: The Sabres and Viktor Antipin have talked recently and nothing has changed. He is still expected to sign with the Sabres.
Aivis Kalnins: New GM Jason Botterill has reached out to Zemgus Girgensons via a text message. There have been no contract discussion yet.
On the Toronto Maple Leafs and Nail Yakupov …
Luke Fox of Sportsnet: Maple Leafs coach Mike Babcock was at the Predators-Ducks game last week. The Ducks would be a perfect trade partner for the Maple Leafs who could use a right-handed top-four defenseman.
Sami Vatanen would be of interest at $4.875 million for another three years. Cheaper and less experienced options would be Brandon Montour and Josh Manson.
Another theory/hunch could be Mike Fisher as it’s doubtful that Brian Boyle returns.
Nail Yakupov is a RFA on July 1st and it’s very unlikely the Blues qualify him. Vegas or another team that is looking offense could be interested on a short-term, low money contract – like the LA Kings. Yakopov said he doesn’t want to return to the KHL.