- Mark Spector of SportsNet: The Oilers core players are likely remaining with the team.
“Because I know how difficult it is to acquire those pieces,” says MacTavish, who has had this discussion with his own people, with other GMs, and today, with Sportsnet. “You’ve got to build your team around somebody. I know you need advancement, but for me… I know the character of the people. They’re budding stars, and they’re doing that on a team that’s had very little team strength.
“As our team grows and gets better, the performance level of the group you’re talking about is going to be off the charts. I want to buy them some time to get the development they need, by (acquiring) guys I can surround them with.”
Sam Gagner is likely available. GM Craig MacTavish is working the phones.
“We’ll add bodies through the UFA market, which is always a little dangerous, the draft, and potential trades,” MacTavish says. “We’re in the process now of making those phone calls. We’re a team that can take some salary, so we’re in that market too.”
They’ll be looking for a puck-moving defenseman and a five-six shut-down type player. The Oilers have liked Flyers Braydon Coburn and could go after him again this offseason. They could look at Ron Hainsey and Matt Niskanen. Other Free agent options could be Andrej Meszaros and Matt Green. They could also use some help down the middle, and some size on their second or third lines. Possibilities could be Daniel Winnik or Michal Handzus. MacTavish said they will be active on the free agent market.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post: It is unclear what the Avalanche’s plans are for pending RFA Jamie McGinn. He is one year away from being a UFA. Dater thinks the Avalanche will want to bring him back.
- Tom Gulitti of the Bergon Record: Adam Larsson’s agent said that Larsson’s only intention is to play with the Devils next season. There was speculation that he might return to Sweden next year. They have started contract talks with Lamoriello.
“We’re talking to Lou and just trying to figure out what his role would be for next year and what’s best for him developmentally,” Barry said. “I don’t know where that (the talk of him going to Sweden) came from.”
- Tony Gallagher of the Vancouver Province: Gallagher thinks the Canucks should consider signing pending UFA Brian Boyle, even if they have to overpay him. Boyle is coming off a three-year deal with a $1.7 million cap hit, and will no doubt be looking for a raise.
- Hope Smoke: Bob McKenzie: “The Sabres are willing to buy first round picks by taking on big salary and then giving that player a compliance buyout” … “Tim Murray has let that be known to other teams”