On the Detroit Red Wings …
Sportsnet’s Headlines: Chris Johnston: The Red Wings have re-signed GM Ken Holland to a two-year contract extension.
Nick Kypreos: The Red Wings will address head coach Jeff Blashill’s status by Tuesday. Things are pointing to Blashill getting the same opportunity as Holland did on continuing the rebuild.
Elliotte Friedman: Henrik Zetterberg said as long as he’s healthy he will play next season. Some players say he deals with a lot for his back just to play.
On the New York Rangers …
Larry Brooks of the NY Post: Potential head coaching candidates for the Rangers: Jim Montgomery (U of Denver), David Quinn (Boston U), Rick Bennett (Union College), Sheldon Keefe (AHL – Toronto), Dan Bylsma, Darryl Sutter, Dave Tippett, Patrick Roy, Bill Peters (has an out clause in his Hurricanes deal), and John Tortorella (doubtful that he becomes available).
On the Ottawa Senators and Erik Karlsson …
Chris Nichols of FanRag Sports: Elliotte Friedman was on Sportsnet 960 and said that he believes that Senators defenseman Erik Karlsson will be traded this offseason.
“I do expect he’s going to get traded. I think the biggest question that they have is is this going to be a hockey trade, or is this going to be a salary dump. And I hope for their sakes it’s a hockey trade. But I do think he gets traded. I don’t think he re-signs there.”
The Senators have some big decisions to make this offseason – Karlsson, Guy Boucher, goaltending, Mark Stone and Matt Duchene.
On the Buffalo Sabres …
Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic: The Sabres finished last in the league and will have some tough decisions this offseason. Do they listen to offers on Ryan O’Reilly or any of their core players?
“Let’s be honest, with our team, we have some good, young pieces, but when you finish 31st, you do have to evaluate everything,” Botterill said. “Even with our core guys, we’re going to have to make the assessment here leading up to the draft and free agency, do we keep our guys or make an adjustment there?”