- Scott Burnside of ESPN: Sources have told ESPN Friday night that the Ice Edge Holdings group and city of Glendale are going to sign a letter of exclusivity on Monday, as they’ve agreed on all points on in a new lease agreement. The memorandum won’t be officially submitted to the city for voting until the city and NHL come to agreement on several points, which will be discussed on Tuesday. The NHL wants the city to cover the operating losses for the team if an owner is not found by next year, which could be in the $20-30 million range. If all goes well, it could still take 4-8 weeks before a deal could be finalized. Check out yesterday’s post on Coyotes situation for some more background on what’s been happening.
- Bob McKenzie of TSN: Sergei Kostitsyn has worn out his welcome in Montreal. The players, coaches and managment have about had it with him. He’s a skilled player and could help them out now, but he’s got a bad work ethic and a terrible attitude. Players may be wanting to send him away right away, but coaches and managment are trying to keep this distraction to a minimum.
- Chuck Gormley of the Courier-Post: Gormley looks at the Flyers free agent situation this summer. Aaron Asham, Michael Leighton and Lukas Krajicek have all stated they’d like to return, but no word yet from management if there is an interest in bringing them back. Ray Emery isn’t expected to get a contract offer. The Flyers will most likely send qualifying offers to RFAs Daniel Carcillo, Darroll Powe, Braydon Coburn, and Ryan Parent.
- John Vogl of the Buffalo News: The Buffalo Sabres will be looking for a backup goalie this summer. Patrick Lalime is an option, but I doubt it, they didn’t seem to trust him that much down the stretch to give Miller the time off that he needed. Martin Biron is probably the leading candidate, though they can’t really admit it as he’s still under contract with the Islanders. The Sabres could also go ‘in-house’ with the 21-year old Jhonas Enroth who’s been in the AHL the past 2 seasons.
- Ted Kulfan of the Detroit News: Kirk Maltby’s final practice/game could be approaching. Currently he plans on training this summer like he’ll be returning, but he’s unsure if it will be with the Red Wings. The 37-year old is a UFA at seasons end, may not get a contract offer from the Wings, and may not see himself in another uniform.