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NHL Rumors VII: Panthers, Canucks, Niskanen, Lecavalier, Penguins and Pacioretty
Mark Easson
Darren Dreger: The Panthers are considering multiple trade options for the first overall pick, which includes teams outside of the top 10 that are offering current NHL players. The Panthers plan to make their decision on whether or not to trade the pick before they hit the draft floor, which is likely before 5:00 pm.
Brian Lawton: Lawton thinks that the Panthers will trade the pick and end up with one of two centers. One will be very elite or the other could be good but not proven and a top 10 pick.
Brian Lawton: Lawton is told that there is a 100 percent chance that the Canucks sign a UFA starting goaltender.
Katie Strang: Matt Niskanen is gathering info from interested teams. They will take a break through Saturday. They will likely narrow the list down on Sunday, identifying the teams that are a good fit for him.
Brian Lawton: The trade market is very limited for Vincent Lecavalier unless the Flyers eat 50 percent of the cap hit and salary. Has a $2 million signing bonus on July 1st.
Will DePaoli: Penguins GM Jim Rutherford is in a win-now mode and it’s not a surprise that the No. 22 is very much in play. They would be looking for an established player.
Jimmy Murphy: Surprising that Canadiens Max Pacioretty name is out there again when talking to agents and scouts.