On the Winnipeg Jets and New York Islanders …
- Chris Nichols of Today’s Slapshot: Darren Dreger on TSN 1040 on if a Jacob Trouba for Travis Hamonic trade is in the ballpark.
“It’s in the ballpark. I just think that the Winnipeg Jets are still a little unsure as to what they have in Jacob Trouba. I think that they think they’ve got a real good young defenseman here. I think that they’re terrified of what his contract is going to have to look like (laughs) in the future.
“Look, you can always bridge and go through all of that nonsense, but a six-year term at what – 6.5, 6.75 – I mean, that’s a lot of money invested in a player that you’re still trying to get a handle on.
“I think it’s a considerable long shot that Jacob Trouba gets traded between now and Monday. And if Cheveldayoff is willing to consider that, and the Hamonic situation is still a good fit, then they do that in the summer if it’s still there.”
On the New York Islanders …
- Steven Marcus of Newsday: Pending UFA Kyle Okposo wants to remain with the Islanders. There have been no reports that they are having contract negotiations. His family and friends are asking what is going on.
“Yeah,’’ he said, “I don’t know about concerns, just maybe wanting to know what’s going on. I just tell them pretty much the same answer that I give to you guys. I’m playing for the Islanders. Once that passes, there’ll probably be a lot of questions answered, and whatever happens is going to happen. I hope I’m here and I hope I’m trying to help this team win a Stanley Cup.
“They’re going to make those decisions at an appropriate time. I never want that to be a distraction among the group. I’m just trying to keep a level head on my shoulders, go out there and play my game.’’