On free agent Kris Russell …
Michael Augello: Darren Dreger was theorizing on TSN radio yesterday that the Toronto Maple Leafs could be interested in free agent defenseman Kris Russell on a one-year deal, and then they could trade him at the deadline.
Darren Dreger: The Leafs-Russell comment was pure radio fodder, though Russell is in serious discussions with eight teams. He’s expected to sign with someone before the start of training camp.
Chris Nichols: LeBrun said when he checked in with Kris Russell’s reps around a month ago, they said that teams were “very interested,” but they would need to create the cap space to bring him in.
On the Edmonton Oilers …
Jim Matheson: The Oilers would have definitely drafted Mikhail Sergachev with their first round pick had Jesse Puljujarvi not been available.
On the Florida Panthers …
Harvey Fialkov: Tomas Fleischmann is using the Panthers training facility with their permission, but the sides are not talking contract.
On the Arizona Coyotes …
Sarah McLellan of the Arizona Republic: Tobias Rieder is still looking for a contract with the Coyotes, but will play for Team Europe at the World Cup of Hockey. Contract talks with are ongoing though.
“We continue to discuss things and made a series of very fair offers – different ways, shapes and forms,” General Manager John Chayka said. “Nothing yet that’s in agreement yet with his camp. We like the player a lot. We think he’s a very good player. He adds a lot of value to our team and impact, and we hope and expect him to be at camp and be a part of our group.”
Dhiren Mahiban: If he doesn’t have a contract in place, Rieder won’t be attending the Coyotes training camp when the World Cup is over. Rieder has KHL offers, though he would have visa complications.