On the Calgary Flames …
Kristen Anderson: Flames GM Brad Treliving on possibly trading into the first round: “We have an opportunity to. But the cost-benefit analysis to where we are today, it doesn’t make a lot of sense. Are we any closer, probably not. Is it still something we’re looking at? Sure.”
On the Dallas Stars …
Sean Shapiro: Stars GM Jim Nill confirmed that they will sign Valeri Nichushkin to a two-year contract on July 1st.
On the Montreal Canadiens …
Chris Nichols: Bob McKenzie: “Montreal Canadiens continue to be a team that’s very interested in Ryan O’Reilly, amongst others, but one of the sticking points right now for the Montreal Canadiens is Buffalo seems like they really want that third overall pick”
On the Minnesota Wild …
Michael Russo: According to sources, the Wild are closing in on re-signing forward Kyle Rau.
On the Nashville Predators …
Adam Vingan: It doesn’t sound like the Predators will going after any big-named free agents this offseason, GM David Poile on free agency: “I don’t think we’re going to make too many moves for our team.”
On the Ottawa Senators …
WGR 550: Darren Dreger: “My gut feeling is that Erik Karlsson moves this offseason. I think the interest is incredibly high, and the Senators are recognizing that a rebuild is not a bad idea. I’m still captivated that Vegas could be the team to land Karlsson.”
On the Toronto Maple Leafs
Darren Dreger: Miro Aatlonen’s agent told the Maple Leafs that he’ll be returning to the KHL next season.
Kristen Shilton: Leafs GM Kyle Dubas said that they were informed that Aaltonen would be heading back to the KHL as he’ll get a top-line role, and that the Leafs respect his decision.
Michael Augello: “Aaltonen’s return to the KHL makes the #Leafs already thin center depth even thinner. Freddy Gauthier and Par Lindholm may compete for the 4th line C, but this may provide more impetus to Kyle Dubas to make a deal or dip into free agency.”
James Mirtle: Have to wonder if Calle Rosen and other good European players will want to head back to Europe/KHL rather than spending years in the AHL.