On the Detroit Red Wings …
Ted Kulfan of the Detroit News: On the report that Pavel Datsyuk could return to Russia after this season. Datsyuk could be talking to the media after today’s practice. If he does leave, his $7.5 million salary cap hit would remain on the books since it was a 35+ deal. That cap hit would cripple the Red Wings. It might be possible to trade his contract to a team looking to reach the salary cap floor. The Red Wings could then use that added space to possibly look at free agent Steven Stamkos. Datsyuk’s agent:
“Pavel is concentrating on helping his team to make the playoffs and winning another Stanley Cup for the Detroit Red Wings,” Milstein said in an e-mail when reached by The Detroit News. “Pavel also has one more year left on his NHL contract. We will sit down with Ken Holland at the conclusion of the season for our annual year end meeting.”
On the Colorado Avalanche …
Mike Chambers of the Denver Post: Avs coach Patrick Roy had some harsh words for Matt Duchene after last night’s loss. Duchene was on the trade block earlier this season. Chambers thinks Duchene is the last player they should trade. Roy should try to repair his relationship with Duchene, but if GM Joe Sakic takes Roy’s side, Duchene could be traded.
On Jimmy Vesey …
Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe: From around the NHL, it appears to be foregone conclusion that Jimmy Vesey will either sign with the Boston Bruins or Toronto Maple Leafs.
On the Ottawa Senators …
Don Brennan of the Ottawa Sun: More was expected from Mika Zibanejad this year, especially when Kyle Turris went down to injury. Zibanejad is their fifth leading scorer, and it may be a little unclear where he fits in going forward. Do the Senators look for a “high-scoring, lefthanded shooting centre” that they could use this offseason? Could they give the spot to Colin White next year or try Zibanejad on the wing? Brennan thinks that Zibanejad could still turn out to be a big-time player, but part of Brennan also thinks he shouldn’t be building a $2 million mansion in Ottawa.
