- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Derek Roy’s days with the Oilers basically ended when the Oilers won the draft lottery, even though he helped get Nail Yakupov going. With training camp about six weeks away, Roy is still looking for work. Others still looking for work include Jarret Stoll, Cody Franson, Keith Aulie, Christian Ehrhoff, Scottie Upshall, Jiri Tlusty and Brad Boyes. Roy’s agent said that age (32) and size (5′ 9″, 184 lbs) may be a stumbling block for some teams.
“It’s been very quiet for Derek but there’s quite a few players looking … there’s probably 15 players (currently unsigned) who should be in the league,” said Hooper.
“I think lots of teams are evaluating what they’ve got in their own system. Others have cap issues.”
- Mike Morreale of NHL.com: Potential 2016 first overall pick Auston Matthews is still deciding on where he’ll be playing next season.
“There’s no (updated) news and I’m really just focused on this camp and wanting to continue to make an impression on the USA coaching staff,” Matthews said. “A decision should be made shortly after this camp.”
Matthews is deciding on playing with Zurich in the Swiss National League or Everett of the WHL.
“There are a lot of pros and cons (to playing in North American or Europe). I don’t think there’s any wrong way. Whether you play in the NCAA, major junior or play in Europe, it’s a lot of pros and cons both ways.”
- Aaron Vickers: Matthews decision will be made soon, and have heard as early as today.
- Michael Russo of the Star Tribune: The Wild have not made a trade this offseason, and their only signing was college free agent Mike Reilly. Among the players that left include Chris Stewart, Kyle Brodziak, Matt Cooke and Jordan Leopold. Zach Parise isn’t looking at the “negative side of things” and doesn’t seem to be too worried.
“So I’m not coming into this season sweating, nervous that we’re in trouble because we didn’t do more. I don’t think that’s the case at all.”