Could Winnipeg support a team? Doan at least a week away … Bernier possible broken cheekbone, Burns to be suspended?
  • Toronto Sun: It’s been awhile since the Sun group posted an article on how Winnipeg can support an NHL team. Mario Lefebvre (Conference Board of Canada director – I have no idea what that means) says that Winnipeg, Quebec City and Hamilton all reach 4 things necessary to have a successful sports organization. “1) the size of the market; 2) the wealth of the market; 3) a sound corporate presence; 4) a level playing field.”
  • Craig Custance of the SportingNews: The Coyotes sent defensive prospect Oliver Ekman-Larsson to the minors yesterday, but it’s not expected to be a long stay. According to GM Don Maloney, “Rather than sit him in and out of the lineup, we just thought we should let him play in all situations in the .” “Whether it’s two weeks or two months, I don’t know,” he said. “He’s a good player for us. I think he’ll help us this year.”
  • Ron Brennan of the Ottawa Sun: Filip Kuba will see how he feels this morning, and if he’s able to go. But as Brennan points out, he’s been close before without playing. Kuba was cleared last week by doctors, and in a roundabout way, questions is manhood. Other teammates are fighting through their injuries. Mike Fisher is battling through an upper-body injury.
  • Iain MacIntyre of the Vancouver Sun: Peter Schaefer will be a healthy scratch again tonight, and could find his days number with the Vancouver Canucks. He’s on a 2-way contract and could be sent to the minors.
  • George Richards of the Miami Herald: Steve Bernier of the Florida Panthers was taken to the hospital after being hit in the face by Brent Burns, who still had his stick in his hand. Bernier has a cut under his eye and possibly a broken cheekbone. After watching the below video, I’m sure the NHL will be taking a look at it.