On the Pittsburgh Penguins, Colorado Avalanche, Carolina Hurricanes, Edmonton Oilers, Montreal Canadiens and Toronto Maple Leafs …
Rory Boylen of Sportsnet: Nick Kypreos said that there is trade speculation between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Colorado Avalanche regarding Matt Duchene.
“Those deals are hard to make. Usually when you’re dealing with star players of that magnitude that deal happens at the NHL Draft or even in the off-season, but there is some thought that Joe Sakic is pushing really hard. Some people are even suggesting that Jimmy Rutherford may even take a run at him,” Kypreos said. “Feeling is that they’re still always looking for scoring for Sidney Crosby, but will he have enough pieces? Can he shed enough of that salary to move in a guy like Duchene at $6 million?”
Colorado Avalanche GM Joe Sakic is asking for as many three assets for Duchene: A top pick, a prospect and maybe a top defenseman.
Kypreos suggests the Avalanche could be interested in Derrick Pouliot, and maybe Marc-Andre Fleury could be potential fit.
Elliotte Friedman said he spoke with Penguins GM Jim Rutherford, and not specifically referring to Duchene:
“I will do anything I can to win and if I have to sort it out after the season I will do that.”
Another team that could be interested in Duchene.
“Carolina is another team that you don’t necessarily put making a huge impact trade at the deadline. I’m hearing them also in play as well.”
Nick Kypreos also said that St. Louis Blues defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk has a list of 12 teams that he would consider signing a long-term deal with. The Montreal Canadiens and Toronto Maple Leafs are among the 12 teams, the Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames likely aren’t.
Nick Kypreos said that the Oilers, Columbus Blue Jackets and Maple Leafs have some interest in Tampa Bay Lightning center Brian Boyle. Been reports that the Maple Leafs are looking to add some depth at center.