On the Buffalo Sabres …
Nick Filipowski: Source saying Nashville Predators assistant GM Paul Fenton interviewed with for the Sabres GM position on Tuesday.
Nick Filipowski: Can confirm that following people have interviewed with the Sabres: Tom Fitzgerld, Jason Betterill, Bill Guerin and Fenton. They have permission to speak with LA Kings assistant GM Mike Futa.
Nick Filipowski: Have been told that there are six main candidates for the Sabres GM position.
On Ilya Kovalchuk and Jonathan Drouin …
Larry Brooks of the New York Post: Ilya Kovalchuk wants to return to the NHL next season and sources are saying that it will be a sign-and-trade with New Jersey. Source are saying there will be significant interest in the 34-year old winger. A return to the Devils is not on the agenda.
Several sources are saying that the Tampa Bay Lightning will use Jonathan Drouin as trade bait to acquire a top-four defenseman. The Anaheim Ducks are the most likely trade partner. At least six of the top clubs will be looking for a top-four defenseman and Drouin could help put the Lightning at the top of the group.
Aivis Kalnins: There is no truth to the report that Ilya Kovalchuk playing for the New Jersey Devils is “absolutely out of question.”
On the Toronto Maple Leafs …
Michael Augello: From a report from Expressen.se, Swedish defenseman Calle Rosen will sign with the Maple Leafs after the World Championships.
On the Calgary Flames, Chad Johnson and Brad Treliving …
Kristen Odland: Pending unrestricted free agent goaltender on his contract situation: “The Flames have gotta get Tree (Brad Treliving) signed first..”
Bob McKenzie: (When asked if GM Treliving is getting re-signed and what’s taking so long) “The longer we go without an announcement, the more uncertain I’m feeling.”
