On 2018 Draft prospect Rasmus Kupari …
Igor Eronko: Potential 2018 first-round draft pick Rasmus Kupari has said that he’ll play in Finland for another two years as he believes it’s better for his development.
On the Ottawa Senators …
Murray Pam: Senators Ville Pokka is close to signing with Avangard Omsk of the KHL. The Senators acquired Pokka from the Blackhawks this year for Chris DiDomenico.
On the Toronto Maple Leafs …
TSN 1050 Toronto: Brian Lawton expects that the Toronto Maple Leafs would be able to re-sign Mitch Marner, Auston Matthews and William Nylander for around $27 to $28 million combined per season.
On the Dallas Stars …
Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: The Stars need to bring a backup goaltender this offseason that can support starter Ben Bishop, but one that could also handle starting duties if Bishop gets injured again. Free agent options include Carter Hutton, Jonathan Bernier, Andrew Hammond, Michael Hutchinson and Anton Khudobin. Hutton may be the best free agent option, but he’ll be looking for a raise over the $1.125 million he made this past year.
It’s looking like Miro Heiskanen and Julius Honka will join John Klingberg and Esa Lindell in their top six. Will Marc Methot be healthy enough? Do they consider trading either Methot or Stephen Johns for a more reliable top-four defenseman? Do they re-sign Dan Hamhuis or Greg Pateryn?
The Stars will have to decide whether Jason Spezza will fit in with new coach Jim Montgomery or do they look to go with more youth. Martin Hanzal is another question mark at center as he might not be ready for the start of the season due to his back surgery. If the Stars retain some of Spezza’s salary, there could be a market for him.
Tyler Seguin is eligible for a contract extension after July 1st. He could be looking for something similar to Jamie Benn’s deal – eight years at $9.5 million.