Jim Matheson: Matheson wonders about a Ales Hemsky for Michael Del Zotto deal. Hemsky’s $5 million salary could be an issue though.
Jim Matheson: Matheson wonders if the Oilers would be interested in Rangers Chris Kreider.
Patrick Kearns: “I think there’s a good chance they were eyeing Ducks players more so because Messier is probably pretty damn familiar with NYR players.”
Hope Smoke: Darren Dreger: “the chatter around the league has really picked up. MacTavish is working the phones hard for a defenseman”
Jonathan Willis of the Edmonton Journal: Willis thinks the Oilers have been looking at a Rangers defenseman: Marc Staal, Ryan McDonagh, Dan Girardi or Michael Del Zotto. Staal and McDonagh seem unlikely. Girardi is a UFA at the end of the season and has struggled. McDonagh is basically a left-handed version of Justin Schultz. Del Zotto is also a pending a free agent. Chris Kreider would be a nice fit for the Oilers. J.T. Miller might have the Oilers interest too. The Rangers also have some other guys who have size but play in a lesser role: Brian Boyle, Benoit Pouliot and Derek Dorsett. Nail Yakupov is a player the Rangers GM Glen Sather would be interested in.
Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: If the Oilers and Rangers are discussing a trade, it’s unlikely the Rangers would give up Chris Kreider unless Nail Yakupov is involved. A source did say that Kreider could be their best player this season. He’s a big, fast winger, something the Oilers could use. He’s something the Rangers need too though. Odds are the Oilers are pitching Ales Hemsky. The Oilers have liked Michael Del Zotto for awhile.
