On the San Jose Sharks …
Ross McKeon: Sharks GM Doug Wilson said he wasn’t even aware of the report that tied the Sharks and Steven Stamkos.
Kevin Kurz: Matt Nieto’s agent said they haven’t had much contract talks, but expects things will get done.
On Patrick Wiercioch …
Craig Custance: Several teams are calling Patrick Wiercioch. Could be a good value signing as he’s looking to re-establish himself.
On the Los Angeles Kings …
Dennis Bernstein: The Kings have been trying to trade Dustin Brown’s contract, but there were no takers. If the Kings don’t sign a UFA forward, they will need Brown.
On the Toronto Maple Leafs …
Darren Dreger: Believe that the Maple Leafs are one of four teams that are still in on Kris Russell.
James Mirtle: The Maple Leafs buyout of Jared Cowen has been disputed due to his continuing injury. Maple Leafs want Cowen’s cap hit off the books.
Bob McKenzie: As speculated earlier, Jared Cowen won’t be bought out by the Maple Leafs during this buyout window.
Bob McKenzie: The Leafs and Cowen’s camp won’t comment on the situation. It’s believed that they are saying Cowen is still injured and an injured player can’t be bought out.
Bob McKenzie: The NHLPA may now be involved and it could result in a grievance arbitration. Details are scarce at the moment.
Bob McKenzie: When the Leafs traded for Cowen they shut him down with a hip related injury.
Elliotte Friedman: Hearing that an arbitration case started yesterday with the NHL and NHLPA on Jared Cowen to see if he can be bought out or not. A decision is not expected in the immediate future. No side is saying anything. Cowen had been cleared by the Marlies, but after he left Toronto, he had surgery on a doctor’s recommendation. An arbitrator will decide as whether Cowen was healthy or not.