On some remaining RFAs and UFAs …
Kevin Allen of the USA Today: Allen looking at some story lines as training camp approaches.
Anaheim Ducks defenseman Hampus Lindholm still needs to be signed. When the Ducks re-sign the RFA, they are expected to move one of their blueliners as they have eight NHL defensemen, with prospects Shea Theodore and Brandon Montour close to being NHL ready. Cam Fowler‘s name has been in the rumor mill this offseason. The Boston Bruins, Detroit Red Wings and Edmonton Oilers could use help on the blueline.
Other RFAs that are still awaiting deals include Johnny Gaudreau and Nikita Kucherov. Those deals will be done before the start of the season.
The Winnipeg Jets and RFA defenseman Jacob Trouba remain at odds. Money is an issue, but so is Trouba’s role with the team. There are multiple teams that would be interested Trouba if they go that route. The Jets need to get him signed though, as he’s a top-four defenseman and fits with the direction of their team.
Defenseman Kris Russell remains available and is this offseasons version of Cody Franson. Several teams are still needing a defenseman, so someone will get him at a bargain.
Others free agents that are still out there include Patrick Elias, Kyle Quincey, Dominic Moore and Dennis Seidenberg.
Jim Matheson: Don’t know why anyone ever talks about teams potentially signing someone to an offer sheet. It’s pretty much a waste of time as teams are almost always going to match it.
On Las Vegas …
Ken Boehlke of the Sin Bin: The Black Knights has been ruled out as a team name. Owner Bill Foley’s Black Knight Sports and Entertainment company has trademarked the Desert Knights, Silver Knights and Golden Knights.
“Can’t guarantee (these are the final three names) but the filings are on behalf of Black Knight Sports and Entertainment.”
During George McPhee‘s press conference in July, Foley mentioned that “Silver Knights” may not be what he’s looking for in a team name.
A decision on the team name is expected to happen sometime in September or October.