- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: The Coyotes are open for business, but it won’t be cheap. When the Senators called about Antoine Vermette, the Coyotes asked for Curtis Lazar or another top-end prospect. They want two pieces and a draft pick for Keith Yandle.
“If you can get Yandle at this deadline you can get him for two playoff runs,” noted a league executive. “This isn’t an easy move but you’re getting a guy who can play 20-plus minutes and is pretty good offensively.”
Devils GM Lou Lamoriello may have some of his ‘power’ trimmed back. He’ll be looking to trade Jaromir Jagr, Michael Ryder and Peter Harrold.
The Stars are one of the teams that called the Islanders about pending UFA Johnny Boychuk. Doubtful he’ll be moved.
Leafs GM Dave Nonis sent out word that pretty much everyone is available except for James van Riemsdyk and Morgan Rielly. Lots of teams are scouting the Leafs and are interested in Phil Kessel, Joffrey Lupul, Mike Santorelli, Leo Komarov, Dion Phaneuf, Cody Franson and Korbinian Holzer. Kessel and Phaneuf are more likely offseason trades. Word is the Devils, Flames and Stars have shown interest in Phaneuf. David Clarkson won’t be going anywhere.
The Avs are looking for two blue-chip prospects, a top young player and a 1st round pick for Ryan O’Reilly.
Can expect the Ducks to step up their efforts for Sabres Tyler Myers. Ducks GM Bob Murray has held regular talks with the Sabres. The Avs have also looked at Myers.
Talk that Canadiens GM Marc Bergevin is looking for another defenseman. They would be interested in Mike Green and Myers.
Though he cleared waivers last week, Dylan Olsen may get some interest if the Panthers are willing to take back an asset.
- Scott Lewis of Sportsnet: Elliotte Friedman said that Cody Franson and Maple Leafs have been unable to agree on a mulit-year deal at $4.6 million per season. Franson rejected the offer. The Leafs are going to be tight up against the cap next season and they still have to deal free agents in Jonathan Bernier and Nazem Kadri.
- Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun: Hearing the Sharks will trade Antti Niemi by the trade deadline.
Ray Shero may have the inside track to take over the Senators when GM Bryan Murray leaves.If the Sharks fire head coach Todd McLellan (hasn’t seen eye-to-eye with GM Doug Wilson), the Maple Leafs, Red Wings (if they don’t re-sign Babcock) and Oilers.