On the LA Kings …
Eric Duhatschek: (when asked about the Flames) From Duhatschek’s understanding, John Stevens will be staying with the Kings. It’s a good fit for him there.
On the Edmonton Oilers …
Bob Stauffer: Won’t be a surpise if the Oilers sign their 2015 5th round pick in Ethan Bear soon.
On the Colorado Avalanche …
Chris Nichols of Today’s Slapshot: Elliotte Friedman on 630 CHED on Colorado Avalanche defenseman Tyson Barrie.
“You know what, I do think Tyson Barrie is going to go.
“I did a game there where Montreal was in Denver. Don Meehan was there at the time with Craig Oster. They’re the Newport guys who handle Barrie. I just got the impression from everybody involved that they weren’t really even in the same ballpark.
“Knowing the way they finished their year, I’ve got to think it’s very likely he moves on.”
On the New York Islanders …
Arthur Staple of Newsday: It’s safe to assume that there is a rift between Jaroslav Halak and the NY Islanders. If they were to trade him, he wouldn’t bring back much of a return, maybe a mid-round draft pick. Halak has two years left on his deal at $4.5 million per.
The Islanders have been happy with Thomas Greiss’ play and his laid-back attitude. GM Garth Snow seems to think that Greiss could be a No. 1 goalie.
“He came in and displayed a great work ethic, whether he was playing or backing up. Thomas earned the respect from our players and coaches because of his personality, his demeanor, his work ethic and when he got the opportunity to play, he seized it. He proved to be a No. 1 goalie this season. The challenge is to improve, build off that and get better.”
Greiss has another left on his contract at $1.5 million.
Jean-Francois Berube is a pending RFA and has the same agent as Halak – Allan Walsh
“I want a bigger role next season,” Berube said. “Past couple years I played 40-45 games, that’s when I perform the best is when I play a lot, but again it’s the management’s decision. I’m just here to do what they tell me to do and I have to make sure I show up ready in training camp.”