On the New York Islanders, Edmonton Oilers, Nashville Predators and Brian Gionta …
TSN Insider Trading: Pierre LeBrun: Asked New York Islanders GM Garth Snow Thursday if he’d consider trading John Tavares before the trade deadline if they fall out of the playoff race and he said: “I am not trading John Tavares.”
Darren Dreger: Some think that Tavares has decided to at least see what the free agent market look like. Some also think that Tavares will use this time to see how GM Snow deals with their other free agents like Josh Bailey.
Bob McKenzie: Two rentals that could be on the move are Edmonton Oilers forwards Patrick Maroon and Mark Letestu. GM Peter Chiarelli won’t move Maroon until he gets a better understanding of what it might cost to re-sign him. Maroon would like to remain in Edmonton, and they’d like to bring him back, but only if the price is right.
“I would expect over the next week to see some negotiations on that front, but if they don’t come to a contract agreement, then most certainly Maroon’s name will become front and centre in those trade rumours leading up to the deadline. As a rental. Letestu is another guy that is more than likely going to be moved. They’re getting action on both Maroon and Letestu.”
Pierre LeBrun: The Predators could be adding Mike Fisher as a bottom-six center if all goes well, and they would also like to add a top-six scoring winger.
Darren Dreger: Brian Gionta has let teams know that after the Winter Olympics he’d be interested in returning to the NHL. Gionta would need to sign before the trade deadline to be eligible for the playoffs. Teams have said they want to see how he plays in the Olympics before making any decisions.
