On the Ottawa Senators …
Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Senators GM Pierre Dorion said he’ll continue to talk to teams leading up to the deadline.
“We’re going to be doing a lot of things to make sure that we can field as competitive a team as we can, whether it’s in the near future or whatever future you want to look at,” said Dorion.
The LA Kings were the only team the Senators were talking to with regards to Dion Phaneuf. The Senators retaining 25 percent of Phaneuf played a big role in getting the deal done with the Kings.
The Senators could buy out Marian Gaborik this offseason, saving the Senators even more money.
The Senators have received calls on Mike Hoffman, Zack Smith, Derick Brassard, Jean-Gabriel Pageau, Magnus Paajarvi, Cody Ceci and Johnny Oduya.
The Winnipeg Jets scouted the Senators-Penguins game on Wednesday and have kicked tires on Hoffman and Brassard.
Bobby Ryan and his $7.25 million salary cap hit through 2021-22 hasn’t been mentioned. They could try to put him in a package.
Dorion said he hasn’t put up the “For Sale” sign.
“We’re going to take it day-by-day, we’re going to do what’s right for the organization. We have a plan in place. We know how we’re going to go about the plan. I’m excited about the future of this team and I’m excited about the future of this organization.
“I don’t think there’s much more to add.”
On the San Jose Sharks and Ottawa Senators …
Paul Gackle of The Mercury News: Elliotte Friedman reported that the Sharks are interested in Senators forward Derick Brassard. The addition of someone like Brassard would give them four solid lines if Joe Thornton were to return from his injury.
Brassard has another year left on his deal, something that GM Doug Wilson prefers.
Pierre LeBrun reported that the Senators are looking for a first-round pick, a top prospect and another piece for Brassard. That is a high price.
The Sharks may not be interested in giving up a first-round pick, one of Rudolfs Balcers, Jacob Middleton or Joachim Blichfeld, and other piece. If it only cost the Sharks a 2nd or 3rd round pick and a prospect, then it might be worth it for the Sharks.
The Sharks may be better off looking at Oilers Mark Letestu.