- Brett Cyrgalis of the NY Post: After signing Jaroslav Halak to a four year deal, Islanders GM Garth Snow said that talks between the Islanders and Evgeni Nabokov are “still ongoing.” The Islanders will keep the 5th overall pick this year and will send the Sabres their 2015 1st round pick as part of the Thomas Vanek-Matt Moulson trade. Snow is open to trading the 5th pick.
“Absolutely. We’re open to any deal that might make the team better. If that’s trading the pick for a player, standing pat and picking a quality player at No. 5, or trading it to move up or down, we’re open.”
- Rory Boylen of The Hockey News: Secondary scoring remains an issue for the Islanders, they lack a proven leader on the blueline and need improve their overall depth. It is looking like GM Garth Snow could be active this summer. Could the Islanders make their 5th overall pick available to fill a roster hole or two? Teams that could be looking to do something big at the draft are the Penguins, Sharks, Canucks and Islanders.
- SportsNet: Flames executive Craig Conroy said they have a specific player in mind at the No. 4 slot at this years draft, but are excited at the group of players that could be there for them.
- Hope Smoke: Darren Dreger: “There hasn’t been any contact with the Leafs & Oates. Leafs are respectful that Oates wants to be a head coach.” … “The Leafs will allow that process to continue with interest from Carolina.” … “Although I’m told Carolina really wants to go cheap in the hiring of their coach” … “and what interest Tallon may have in Florida ” … “So there’s a process the Leafs are comfortable waiting for Oates & others to go through” … “I know that the Leafs are still working on the fact finding side of things. Putting names on paper” … “They’ll get to the interview process very shortly”