Larry Brooks of the NY Post: The Rangers are interested in Alexander Radulov, but are internally weighing the upside of acquiring over players like Rick Nash, Bobby Ryan and Zach Parise. There is reportedly one other team that is closer to acquiring Radulov’s rights. A problem with trading for Nash would what you have to give up to get him and his $7.8 million cap hit. In the new CBA, there is no guarantee that there will be a player salary rollback. The Rangers are not as confident anymore that Derek Stepan and Artem Anisimov are 2nd line centers. They may have an interest in Ryan Getzlaf if the Ducks are looking to move him. Jordan Staal would interest them as well. If the Rangers were able to sign Justin Schultz, Michael Del Zotto could become available.
Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Garrioch lists the top 5 pre-draft trade possibilities: 1. Rick Nash – The Rangers, Maple Leafs and Sharks looked at Nash at the trade deadline. Don’t be surprised if the Sabres show some interest. 2. Roberto Luongo – The Lightning, Maple Leafs, Blue Jackets and Blackhawks may be looking for goaltending help. Luongo has a $5.3 million cap hit through 2021-22. 3. Jordan Staal – The Sabres and Blues could be 2 of the many teams interested in Staal. 4. Jonathan Bernier – The Blue Jackets tried to trade for him a last year but couldn’t work out a deal. 5. Tim Thomas – Thomas has said he’s going to sit out next year. He may be dealt to a team looking to get to the salary floor.
Jimmy Murphy via twitter: Murphy doesn’t think the Bruins will be interested in Alexander Radulov as he doesn’t fit their team style or concept.
HNIC Hotstove Link: Spector’s Hockey via twitter summary: Elliotte Friedman suggested that Sidney Crosby’s new contract could be 10 years. The Penguins and Crosby’s agent are working on a deal that could come by July 1st. Glen Healy thinks that if Crosby is re-signed, Jordan Staal could be traded. Wharnsby believes the Hurricanes could be interested. Wharnsby said the Oilers coaching search could go past the entry draft. Friedman said that there could be increase in trade activity this year as GMs aren’t thrilled with the depth in the free agent crop.
Ken Wiebe of the Winnipeg Sun: Elliotte Friedman suggested on the Hotstove that SKA St. Petersburg has made an offer to Jets goalie, Ondrej Pavelec. Pavelec’s agent, Allan Walsh, would not comment. Pavelec made $1.3 million last year and will be looking for a nice raise. Signing Pavelec is a priority for the Jets.
