Stone’s agent is in Ottawa today
Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Mark Stone‘s agent Craig Oster is in Ottawa today to watch his nephews – Matthew and Brady Tkachuk – and possibly to speak with Senators GM Pierre Dorion.
The gap for an extension between the Senators and Stone isn’t large.
A trade still seems the most likely route. He’s the top target for Winnipeg Jets, with the Boston Bruins, Calgary Flames and Vegas Golden Knights also interested.
The Senators want a first-round pick, two strong assets, and a conditional pick if Stone re-signs or how far team goes in the playoffs.
Kings have been in constant contact with Kovalchuk and his camp
Helene Elliott of the LA Times: The Los Angeles Kings have spoken with Ilya Kovalchuk about options for his future. He has two years left on his deal at $6.25 million.
A team spokesman on Friday said that GM Rob Blake “has been speaking regularly with Ilya and his representatives as it relates to all various aspects and options leading up to the trade deadline.”
Kovalchuk holds a no-movement clause and the Kings would likely have to retain salary if they could find a trade partner for Kovalchuk and if he approves it.
Clifford generating some interest
Curtis Zupke of the LA Times: Los Angeles Kings forward Kyle Clifford has already tied his career high in goals with seven and his two points shy of his career high in points at 15.
Teams have noticed his play and are showing trade interest.
“I think in some ways his roles changed a little bit,” coach Willie Desjardins said. “I think, before, he was a little bit more of an enforcer, a guy that had to play that role more, and I think the league’s gone away from that a little bit. So now he has more room to play. And he sees himself in a different light.”