On the Minnesota Wild …
Michael Russo: The Wild assigned defenseman Kyle Quincey to the AHL as they continue to try and trade him. He carries an NHL salary cap hit of $1.25 million, but while in the AHL he’ll count $225,000 against the Wild’s cap.
On the Edmonton Oilers …
Ryan Rishaug: With Jesse Puljujarvi and Kailer Yamamoto in their system, Anton Slepyshev is a moveable piece that could get something done. He’s still a young player with upside.
Jim Matheson: Oilers GM Peter Chiarelli could be looking for a veteran backup, but there isn’t much available – Eddie Lack, Andrew Hammond.
Frank Seravalli of TSN: Oilers GM Chiarelli is calling teams looking for a backup goaltender. The Oilers don’t have any cap issues at the moment for this season.
After claiming defenseman Brandon Davidson, Eric Gryba and Yohann Auvitu could be out the lineup. The 23-year old Anton Slepyshev could be another trade piece.
Five potential backups for the Edmonton Oilers.
Chad Johnson – Buffalo Sabres – Johnson is a pending UFA and Buffalo Sabres GM Jason Botterill could be looking for draft picks. They have had interest in Johnson in the past. The Pittsburgh Penguins could also be interested in Johnson.
Michael Hutchinson – Winnipeg Jets – The Jets aren’t actively shopping Hutchinson now that Steve Mason is out with a concussion. Hutchinson is a pending UFA with a $1.15 million cap hit.
Michal Neuvirth – Philadelphia Flyers – The Oilers were interested in Neuvirth back in 2015 to backup Cam Talbot. Neuvirth has another year left on his deal at a $2.5 million cap hit.
Calvin Pickard – Toronto Maple Leafs – The cost to acquire Pickard may be higher than others on the list. The Leafs don’t appear to be in a rush to move Pickard, and may not be interested in trading him before the Leafs play the Oilers on Sunday.
Petr Mrazek – Detroit Red Wings – Still struggling and carries a $4 million salary cap hit. He’s 25 years old and will be a restricted free agent after the season.