If the Penguins look outside for a goaltender…
Dan Kingerski: If the Pittsburgh Penguins are looking for a goaltender, maybe they should take a look at Vancouver Canucks Jacob Markstrom. He could use a change of scenery, may not cost a lot to acquire and is on an affordable contract.
Canadiens looking for blue line help
Eric Engels of Sportsnet: Nick Kypreos reported over a week ago that the Montreal Canadiens have been looking for a top-pairing defenseman to play with Shea Weber.
It would worth giving up some assets if they are able to find a left-handed defenseman who has term left on his contract and is not on the downside of his career.
Los Angeles Kings defenseman Jake Muzzin is a name that could be an option. The 29-year old is owned $4 million through next season. The Canadiens have the cap room to add and possibly extend him.
St. Louis Blues defenseman Jay Bouwmeester is 35 and is in the final year of his contract. It would be risky to give up a high draft pick or prospect for him.
Can the Canadiens find a taker for Alzner?
Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic: It’s not going to be easy for the Canadiens to find a team interested in Karl Alzner and his $4.625 million cap hit for another three seasons.
If the Canadiens are willing to eat salary or take back another bad contract, would someone be interested in the 30-year old defenseman?
Alzner doesn’t fit the up-tempo style that they want their defensemen to play.
J.P. Barry, Alzner’s agent, has permission to talk with other teams.
Kovalchuk struggles
Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic: Los Angeles Kings forward Ilya Kovalchuk has another two years left on his deal at $6.25 million. The 35-year old has struggled of late and there may not be a team interested until he turns it around. Kovalchuk also holds a no-trade clause.
The Panthers would like to upgrade in net
Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic: The Florida Panthers would like to upgrade in net. Roberto Luongo has been often injured of late. The Panthers would need to move out goaltender James Reimer and his $3.4 million salary cap hit. Reimer has another two years left on his deal and is owed a $2.25 million signing bonus on July 1st, 2020.