On Offer Sheets
Brian Lawton: “Keep in mind with offer sheets that most clubs would prefer to 1st try and make a trade. So instead of just sending over an offer sheet they contact the club in hopes of jump starting negotiations for a trade. It’s a good way to avoid a barn fight.”
Canadiens have some cap space to take advantage of
Habs Links: Bob McKenzie on TSN 690 on the Canadiens: “If you were creating the profile of a team who’s in a real strong position to make an offer sheet, the Montreal Canadiens would fit the profile.”
Offer sheets and the Hurricanes
Chip Alexander: Carolina Hurricanes GM Don Waddell on the rumblings of an offer sheet: “We will match any offer.”
Craig Custance: “Part of the reason you’re seeing so much smoke around Aho is the belief out there that Carolina squeezing him in talks. He’s not arb eligible, so wouldn’t be surprising if they’re offering just a QO or very team friendly long-term deal while they have leverage.”
No money for a top-six forward for the Canucks.
Ben Kuzma: Vancouver Canucks GM Jim Benning said that Roberto Luongo‘s cap recapture penalty and buying out Ryan Spooner now prevents them from going after a top-six forward in free agency.
It was reported that they had some interest in Gustav Nyquist and Marcus Johansson.
Canucks looking for even more defense
Rick Dhaliwal: With the eventual signing of defensemen Tyler Myers and Jordie Benn, the Canucks are still expected to make another blue line signing.
Some interest for Bellemare
Andy Strickland: At least five teams have shown some interest in forward Pierre-Edouard Bellemare.
Hathaway won’t be back with the Flames
Pierre LeBrun: Garnet Hathaway won’t be signing with the Calgary Flames.
Ennis heading to Ottawa
David Pagnotta: Sounding like Tyler Ennis will be signing with the Ottawa Senators.