Devils should make a decision on Palmieri this offseason
Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic: The New Jersey Devils and Kyle Palmieri‘s camp have held preliminary talks according to sources. Palmieri has a year left on his deal at a $4.65 million cap hit. Don’t get the sense that a contract extension is in the works though. It may be better for the sides to wait before getting into any extension talks.
Teams are calling the Devils about Palmieri and GM Tom Fitzgerald has to at least listened. This offseason the Devils should have a number as to what it would take to get him signed. They can weigh the trade offers. Trade deadline offers for pending UFAs isn’t what it use to be so it may be better to have the situation addressed before the season starts.
Will the Canucks be able to move Eriksson this offseason?
Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic: Is this the offseason that the Vancouver Canucks move on from Loui Eriksson as they look to lower their salary cap number. Canucks GM Jim Benning spoke with Eriksson’s agent, J.P. Barry last week.
Eriksson carries a $6 million cap hit but $1 million in salary next season, $4 million in 2021-22, and a 15-team no-trade clause. Could bottom payroll teams like the Buffalo Sabres, Detroit Red Wings or Ottawa Senators be interested?
The Rangers decision with pending UFA Fast could have a domino effect
Rick Carpiniello of The Athletic: The New York Rangers will need to figure out if they’ll be able to re-sign center Jesper Fast or not. Either way, he’ll have a big effect on their lines. notes:
“But if they do, they also have to decide if he’s the answer on that second line. And they have to ask themselves if Strome slots in there, as well. If Fast departs, then the juggling really begins. But even if he stays, are the Rangers ready to roll with that line again?”
The Rangers could consider trading the first-round pick they got from the Carolina Hurricanes for a second-line center or for a Fast replacement if he leaves.