On the New York Islanders and Ottawa Senators …
Jimmy Murphy: Have been hearing that the Islanders and Senators have been discussing Sens forward Matt Duchene. The Islanders have been previously interested in Duchene.
One the New York Islanders …
David Pagnotta: It’s sounding like the Islanders made a four-year offer to defenseman Calvin de Haan as well but it was closer to $4 million per season.
Andrew Gross of Newsday: The Islanders aren’t believed to be a trade destination for Senators defenseman Erik Karlsson.
GM Lou Lamoriello added forwards Tom Kuhnhackl, Leo Komarov, Valtteri Filppula and Matt Martin, as well as goaltender Robin Lehner.
They must be looking to improve their blue line. On their roster they have Thomas Hickey, Johnny Boychuk, Nick Leddy, Adam Pelech and Scott Mayfield.
If Lamoriello isn’t able to make a deal for a defenseman or two, they could have some internal battles for the last couple of spots – Devon Toews, Sabastian Aho, Mitchell Vande Sompel, and Yannick Rathgeb.
Justin Faulk could be available after the Hurricanes signed former Islander Calvin de Haan, or may the Winnipeg Jets will look to move RFA Jacob Trouba.
The cost to acquire either Faulk or Trouba would be high.
On the Carolina Hurricanes …
Bob Stauffer: One of the bigger surprises after the draft and through the start of free agency is that Hurricanes haven’t moved at least one of Jeff Skinner or Justin Faulk.
On the Ottawa Senators …
Shawn Simpson: Arbitration deadline is today and can expect Mark Stone to file if they aren’t far along on talks. Would provide protection for him if a long-term deal can’t be worked out. He could get a one-year deal at more than $6 million and then be a UFA after next season.