- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: Brooks thinks that Dan Cloutier could be a backup option for the NY Rangers. Cloutier has played part of 1 game in the AHL in an attempt to make an NHL comeback after missing the last 18 months from 2 hip surgeries. Should be start looking for Dan Blackburn number as well. If Cloutier is one of the better options, you need to look harder.
- Chris Botta of Fanhouse: Rick PiPietro stopped 13 of 14 shots before leaving in the 2nd period with some tightness. His next schedule minor league start is next Tuesday. I don’t see how the Islanders would be able to rely on DiPietro being healthy for an extended period of time.
- Chis Botta also reports that Tomas Vokoun is being shopped around the league. The Panthers signed Scott Clemmenson to 3 year deal in the off-season, and have top prospect Jacob Markstrom ready to make the jump to North America. Vokoun is under contract for next season at over $6 million. Moving Vokoun this season seems like a bit of strange idea (unless they are blown away by an offer) considering they are still in the playoff race, and in my opinion, must show the fans that they are trying to win. Losing their top 2 stars in 2 years doesn’t do much for fan relations.
- Terry Koshan of the Toronto Sun: Jonas Gustavsson return to the ice yesterday after his 2nd heart ablation surgery. Only a handful of Leafs were on the ice with him. He is slated to ready for game action sometime next week.