- Aaron Portzline of the Columbus Dispatch: The Blue Jackets and Ryan Johansen may still be far apart in contract talks, but at least they have been in contact after weeks of no communication. A source saying that Johansen’s camp recently sent a second contract offer to the Blue Jackets, a two-year deal. Johansen said last month that the Blue Jackets “bridge” offer was a slap in the face. To date, term has been the major stumbling block, with the Johansen looking long-term and the Blue Jackets looking short term.
“Ryan wants to be a Blue Jacket and he wants to be in Columbus,” said Overhardt, who declined to discuss the negotiations. “That has never been an issue in any of this. He loves it there.
“He was very excited to see the club wrap up Brandon Dubinsky with such a long-term contract (earlier this month). That’s the kind of player he wants as a teammate, the kind of player he wants beside him.”
It’s unclear what both sides are offering on a two-year deal, and how far apart they are on salary.
- Mike Brehm of USA Today: Five interesting salary arbitration cases that are schedule to begin today.Vladimir Sobotka – determining salary for when he decides to return to the NHL.
Ryan O’Reilly – had a $6.5 million salary last season, with the Avalanche trying to get much lower than that. Recorded 28 goals and 64 points, while picking up the Lady Byng Trophy.
James Reimer – had 3.29 GAA last year, but a .911 save percentage. Had $1.8 million salary cap hit last year, $1.6 million in salary.
Chris Kreider, Mats Zuccarello and Derick Brassard – the Rangers have about $12.3 million available for four roster players.
P.K. Subban – comparable to when the Predators and Shea Weber went to arbitration. Weber was awarded $7.5 million in 2011. Subban could break Weber’s ruling record.
- Andrew Walker: Free agent Devin Setoguchi won’t be signing with the Maple Leafs. He is considering two teams in the East.