- Sam Carchidi of Philadelphia Inquirer: Flyers president Paul Holmgren on if the Flyers will make an significant moves this offseason.
“That’s Ron’s responsibility,” he said. “I think we have a good group of players we can move forward with.”
The Flyers haven’t been consistent this season.
“The biggest problem has been our inconsistency,” Mason said. “We haven’t put together a string of games for a long period of time that was good enough to win hockey games. Moving forward in the future, that’s something we definitely need to address.”
GM Ron Hextall will have to look at whether to bring head coach Craig Berube back or not. They could look at the free agent market for winger, maybe Matt Beleskey, Chris Stewart or Michael Frolik. They could also look to move someone from their core. Nobody should be untouchable.
- Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe: Stars GM Jim Nill’s big priority this offseason will be their goaltending situation, either by finding someone to get Kari Lehtonen back on track or finding a team to Lehtonen’s contract off their hands. (A $5.9 million cap hit through 2017-18)
- Lowetide: A look at some options the Oilers could consider this offseason. If a team like the Blackhawks are looking to shed some salary, possibly Patrick Sharp, the Oilers could include the first round pick they received from the Penguins in the David Perron trade. The Oilers 2nd round pick, which is currently 33rd, holds a lot of value if some attractive options get passed over in the first round. The Oilers may not be in love with defenseman Martin Marincin. Marincin has been in the rumor mill before and could interest a team looking for a cheaper replacement. If the Oilers land either Connor McDavid or Jack Eichel or possibly Dylan Strome, they could look at moving Leon Draisaitl if they get the right return. Some teams could be interested in veteran Teddy Purcell – the Oilers might have to retain some salary. Don’t see the Oilers trading Jordan Eberle or Taylor Hall this offseason.
- Elliotte Friedman: Hearing that the Kings are considering calling up Mike Richards for their upcoming road trip. Andy Tonge: Have been told that a decision on Richards could go either way.
- Bob McKenzie: There have been 18 teams that have shown some interest in Kyle Baun (grandson of former Maple Leafs Bobby Baun). Contract offers will be submitted by today. It’s likely that he will forego his senior college season. Decision on leaving, and which offer to take if he does, will likely be made tomorrow or Wednesday.
- Bob McKenzie: Polled some NHL scouts on who they currently have rated higher at the moment – Dylan Strome and Mitchell Marner. 10 scouts responding: 5-5.