Jason Mackey: Penguins GM Jim Rutherford. “The two deals went hand in hand so we could add more depth.” Rutherford adds that trade talks started before the draft.
Jason Mackey: GM Rutherford: “We’re up against the cap. We certainly have room if we want to add another forward.”
Stephen Whyno: Rutherford said one reason they traded Brandon Sutter was that they likely wouldn’t be able to afford him next season as he was set to become a UFA.
Jason Brough: Canucks GM Jim Benning said that he would like to get Sutter signed to a contract extension over the next few days.
Elliotte Friedman: On Mitch Marner entry-level contract. He is getting “A” bonuses, which is something Lou Lamoriello usually doesn’t believe in. Negotiations started with Marner before Lamoriello was hired, so understanding is that he made an exception. It will be interesting to see if this continues.
J.J. Regan of CSN Washington: Capitals defenseman Brooks Orpik had successful wrist surgery yesterday. Orpik will be able to continue full activities in about two weeks and is expected to be ready for the start of training camp. It’s not known if it’s a new injury or something that has been bothering for awhile and they finally decided to have it fixed.
Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News: (mailbag) The Stars could move defenseman Jordie Benn if they have too. They don’t want to give away someone if they don’t have too. Jamie Oleksiak still has a lot to prove to earn a roster spot.Stars management may have a ‘black mark’ if they don’t start seeing some results from four of their top 14 picks – Scott Glennie (gone), Jack Campbell, Oleksiak and Radek Faksa.
