Justin Braun addition could mean Philadelphia defense subtraction?
Dave Isaac of the Courier Post: A crowded Philadelphia Flyers’ defensive corps includes Justin Braun now. It begs the question. So, who may be out of town by the time the season starts?
Chuck Fletcher looks actively for a number-one defenseman to play with Ivan Provorov. That tends to mean a homegrown defenseman could be on their way out of Philadelphia.
“You’re always looking to upgrade if you can, but it would depend on if you could acquire that player and even whether that player’s available,” Fletcher said.
Alas, could that mean Shayne Gostisbehere gets shipped out of town? Anything is possible.
The Bob Murray lists continue for Anaheim
Elliott Teaford of the Orange County Register: Bob Murray accomplished a lot over the past few weeks including naming Dallas Eakins head coach. He filled several other important positions as well. Also, he bought out Corey Perry (updated).
So, what is left? There is the NHL Draft this weekend where Anaheim has three picks in the first 40. Also, the free agent window begins on Sunday. Anaheim’s prospect camp takes place next week as well. Ryan Miller, Derek Grant, and Korbinian Holzer all re-signed on Thursday.
Lastly, Bob Murray and Dallas Eakins must round out the coaching staff. Marty Wilford stays as a coach but after that, there is work to do. Finally, does Bob Murray dip into the free agent pool or not?
Ranking the Oilers’ trade assets
Daniel Nugent-Bowman of The Athletic: Again, there are several levels of trade value that Oilers players possess. Some won’t be entertained and some will.
It appears Ryan Nugent-Hopkins is safe. Hopkins has two years left on his deal at $6 million AAV and comes off a career-best 69 points.
Darnell Nurse is another near untouchable but it is possible he just plays out his contract and revisits negotiations next year. Oskar Klefbom is good but injury prone. Adam Larsson would be a change for change’s sake. Matt Benning is much the same but a decent bottom-six blueliner.
Kris Russell and Andrej Sekera are moves made only to save some money. Then, there is Jesse Puljujarvi who wants out of town. Edmonton sells low there but it is clear the forward has made his intentions known.