On Artemi Panarin and the Columbus Blue Jackets …
L.A. Lariviere: Artemi Panarin’s agent said that it’s unlikely that he gets traded this offseason. Blue Jackets GM Jarmo Kekalainen does want to know where he stands.
L.A. Lariviere of TVA Sports: Panarin’s agent said that Blue Jackets GM Kekalainen will travel to Russia to meet up with Panarin for an informal meeting.
There have been some reports that Panarin wants to be traded, but Panarin’s agent Dan Milstein said the rumors are unfounded.
“He is not in a hurry to sign a new agreement. He wants to take his time and know the intentions of the organization, “nuanced the agent.
On the New Jersey Devils …
Chris Ryan of NJ.com: Defenseman Brooks Orpik was bought out by the Avalanche earlier this week and he might be of interest to the Devils on a short-term deal.
Devils free agent defenseman John Moore is geting lots of interest.
On Jonathan Bernier and Michael Grabner …
Craig Custance of The Athletic: Jonathan Bernier is at the top of the Red Wings list of potential goaltenders. It would be a surprise if he got less than three years. Jimmy Howard has a year left on his deal, and Jared Coreau has let the Red Wings know he won’t be back.
Michael Grabner is getting plenty of interest, with upwards of 10 teams.
On Thomas Hickey and the New York Islanders …
Arthur Staple of The Athletic: There appears to only be minimal interest in 29-year old pending free agent defenseman Thomas Hickey. The Penguins and Jack Johnson reportedly have deal in place, so Hickey might get some more interest. He could get a three- or four-year deal in the $3 million range.
With a few goaltenders reportedly off the market, the Islanders could go the trade route if they don’t like the remaining free agent options in Petr Mrazek, Robin Lehner, Jaroslav Halak and Kari Lehtonen.
