- Roger Millions: Hearing that the Flames and Michael Ferland are getting a little closer on a new deal. The sides talked this week. Each side may have to give in more than they want to get a deal done. Ferland will be arbitration eligible soon and Millions is hearing they don’t want to give that up. Meaning, Ferland would need the money to justify the term.
- Craig Morgan of FOX Sports Arizona: The Coyotes weren’t able to trade for Dougie Hamilton like they had hoped, nor were they able bring in some free agents which was likely caused by the city voiding their arena deal.They were able to bring back Antoine Vermette and Zbynek Michalek, signed Brad Richardson and Steve Downie, and traded for Nicklas Grossmann – so ownership did give GM Don Maloney a little money.Shane Doan said that he doesn’t plan on waiving his no-trade clause and request a trade. He’s entering the final year of his contract, and does hope to continue playing beyond this year.
“I always want to approach it that way until I know I’m done,” he said. “I’d like to have a good year. If I feel I can still help the team and they still want me, we can go from there.”
- Rich Chere of NJ.com: It shouldn’t be a surprise if the Devils sign another free agent, or invite a player or two to training camp on a PTO.
“There are players still out there. We have a little more flexibility without (Dainius) Zubrus up front,” Shero told NJ Advance Media. “We’re looking to be in touch with some (player) agents for some free agents. Or with some teams. Or maybe the possibility of a tryout with one or two guys in training camp. Some guys are still trying to get contracts.
“There’s plenty of time there, but you’re always looking to see what’s there. And if it’s something that makes sense for us, we’ll jump in. If not, we’ll go into training camp with what we have and see what’s available after that.”
- Aaron Portzline: Christian Ehrhoff continues to listen and consider NHL offers, but nothing is imminent. At this time he’s not considering the KHL or Europe.
- Aaron Portzline: Have been told that the Blue Jackets are not one of the teams that is interested in defenseman Ilya Nikulin, who plans of leaving the KHL for the NHL The Hockey News.