Chris Kuc of the Chicago Tribune: Marcus Kruger’s agent, J.P. Barry, said that they are still waiting for Blackhawks GM Stan Bowman to clear some salary cap space to be able to re-sign Kruger. Kruger didn’t file for salary arbitration in hopes of signing a long-term deal. Kruger’s agent said in an email that they “will be patient.” If the Blackhawks aren’t able to clear space, Kruger “will have no choice later in August but to do a shorter deal” according to Barry.
Chuck Gormley of CSN Washington: The Capitals are looking for a one-year deal for Marcus Johansson and offered $3 million. Johansson has filed for $4.75 million ahead of Wednesday’s arbitration hearing. Will the Capitals and Johansson now be able to get a deal done beforehand? The addition of T.J. Oshie and Justin Williams, and Andre Burakovsky expected role increase, some of Johansson’s minutes may be eaten up. The Capitals may not want a third line winger potentially earning $4.25 million. The Capitals appear to not want to go more than two-years on any contract with Johansson. He would be an unrestricted free agent in three years.
Don Brennan of the Ottawa Sun: Contract talks between the Senators and Mike Hoffman continue, but it appears that they are headed to salary arbitration on Thursday. They are expected to exchange numbers today. The Senators are looking for a one-year deal.
Bruce McCurdy of the Edmonton Journal: Veteran forward Mike Santorelli remains unsigned. He recorded 29 points in 57 games with the Maple Leafs, before struggling in Nashville where he only recorded 4 points in 22 games. McCurdy thinks that Santorelli could be intriguing for the Oilers, especially with him being a right handed shot.
