On the Ottawa Senators and Marian Gaborik …
Eric Duhatschek of The Athletic: Marian Gaborik’s salary decreases in the final three years of this deal – $4.575 million, $3.175 million and $3.075 million. Not buying out Gaborik after this season and waiting a year, the cap number would be even lower. The Senators may need him on their roster anyways as they’ll need some proven NHL players to remain competitive.
On the Ottawa Senators and Derick Brassard …
TSN: Darren Dreger on the Senators asking for a lot for center Derick Brassard.
“As much as it appears that he is the top centre available, you know, if you’re paying the premium, which is what Pierre Dorion has got to be asking for – otherwise again, why trade him? You’re not moving him out for a piece that you’re going to regret after you move him unless you’re getting something that is tangible value that you can work with at the draft, that’s a prospect or something that’s going to help you in the very near future,” Dreger said.
“I can’t imagine that Dorion has any shortage of interest in Derick Brassard. I just think that understandably the price has to be high.”
On the Vancouver Canucks …
Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic: The Canucks and Erik Gudbranson‘s camp will have more serious contract talks over the next week or so. The Canucks would rather re-sign him as opposed to trading him at the deadline. If they can’t agree on a deal, they would trade him.
TSN Radio Vancouver: Bob McKenzie on where Thomas Vanek fits in with all the wingers that are available: “Right at 5 to 3 on deadline day for a 4th or 5th round pick.”
Rick Dhaliwal: Was a bit of surprised to see defenseman Ben Hutton scratched again. Have heard the Buffalo Sabres might have some interest. “How do you trade guy sitting out and whose confidence is at an all-time low.”