Markstrom granted a leave of absence
Vancover Canucks: Canucks GM Jim Benning: “Jacob Markstrom has been granted a leave of absence to attend to a family matter and is expected to rejoin the #Canucks on the road this weekend. Respectfully, we will not offer any further comment.”
Cap Friendly: The Canucks recalled Zane McIntyre and put Markstrom on Active Non-Roster. The move would have put them over the salary cap ceiling so forward Antoine Roussel was played on the LTIR.
Sandin sent to the AHL … Dermott in a regular jersey
Kristen Shilton: The Toronto Maple Leafs have loaned defenseman Rasmus Sandin to the AHL and recalled defenseman Kevin Gravel.
Pierre LeBrun: “This is about the player’s development. He’s playing just 12 minutes a game in the NHL and no special teams. My sense is the Leafs feel his development is better served playing big minutes within a more impactful role in the AHL.”
Kristen Shilton: Defenseman Travis Dermott practiced yesterday in a regular jersey for the first time this season.
Welinski to waivers
Sam Carchidi: The Philadelphia Flyers have put defenseman Andy Welinski on waivers. If he clears he’ll be sent to Lehigh Valley of the AHL.
Will Heinola be sent to AHL or Finland?
Frank Seravalli: “After a great start with #nhljets, I’d imagine a conversation is coming about 18-year-old D Ville Heinola‘s immediate future after sitting out both games this weekend. Surely, #nhljets would want him playing with @ManitobaMoose, but Heinola can also return to play in Finland.”
Sproul to the KHL
Igor Eronko: Defenseman Ryan Sproul has signed a one-year deal with Kunlun Red Star of the KHL.
Capitals goaltending
Tarik El-Bashir: Washington Capitals coach Todd Reirden when asked after yesterday’s game if Ilya Samsonov has earned more playing time than they originally forecasted to.
“We evaluate all players, from every different position, and talk (with) specific position coaches…and (get) an overall feel from our entire staff when we’re making decisions like that. (Samsonov) is doing what he’s supposed to be doing, and that’s to make it a decision every night of who’s going to be considered to play that game. He’s been solid in his showings and we’ll continue to evaluate it appropriately for what gives our team the best chance to have success.”