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Panthers looking for an explanation … Backes at $5 million? MRI for Armstrong … Spezza playing Saturday?
Mark Easson
Ian Mendes via twitter: Florida Panthers coach Peter DeBoer said that Dale Tallon will seek to get further explanation on the Colton Orr’s goal from last night. (video of goal at bottom of this entry with Kypreos, Watters and Millard talking about it).
Andy Strickland of True Hockey: St. Louis Blues forward David Backes will be an unrestricted free agent this summer, both sides would like to get something done, but there is no rush. Backes may look to deals signed by Patrice Bergeron and Ryan Kesler as comparables, in the $5 million range. Kesler may have a more offensive upside that Backes, but plays a similar all-round game. Backes intangibles make him a valuable commodity.
Darren Dreger via twitter: MRI on Colby Arstrong will be this afternoon. Luca Caputi expected to get the call-up from the Maple Leafs. Update:Nick Kypreos via twiter: Colby Armstrong may need surgery on his hand, could be out 4-6 weeks.
Bruce Garrioch via twitter: Jason Spezza, Erik Karlsson, Milan Michalek, Robyn Lehner and Filip Kuba are not on the ice at Senators practice. Ian Mendes noted that coach Clouston says that Spezza is targeting Saturday versus Boston, unlikely for Thursday.
James Mirtle via twitter: Bryan McCabe is happy in Florida and is hopeful to get another contract from the Panthers.
Bob McKenzie via twitter: Jeff Skinner was told to find a place to live in Raleigh, he won’t be going back to Kitchener of the OHL.
Craig Custance via twitter: Atlanta Thrashers GM Dudley told Custance that there is a 99% chance that Burmistrov will stay with the club.
Dmitry Chesnokov via twitter: Erik Ersberg will take his KHL medical today, expected to sign with Salavat Yulaev after.