- Elliotte Friedman of SportsNet: Friedman spoke with a GM about his team looking for a defenseman: “Everyone is looking for a defenceman.” Same GM said he talked with a team that has eight defenseman on one-way contracts and was told that none were available. The Canadiens are one team looking to see what’s out there.
Before some injuries on Wednesday, it may not have been a surprise if the Canadiens were looking to move a forward.
The Rangers are waiting to see what the Hurricanes are going to do with Andrej Sekera. Depending on Slava Voynov’s situation, the Kings could be interested as well. Zbynek Michalek’s name is coming up. Coyotes GM Don Maloney wouldn’t comment.On Keith Yandle, GM Maloney has said in the past: “If we trade him, you will (hear the deal) and understand why.” Yandle has only one-year left on his deal.
There is no evidence that the Jets are interested in anything involving Dustin Byfuglien or Andrew Ladd. Ladd’s trade list contains 15 teams. Byfuglien’s trade list would be five teams, if they asked for one. As long as the Jets are in a playoff race, don’t expect a big move.
Ryan Whitney told teams he wants to play in a few KHL games before deciding if he wants to come back to the NHL. He would require waivers now.
Stars GM Jim Nill denied that they might look at signing Martin Brodeur to replace the struggling Anders Lindback.
Friedman wonders about a Ilya Kovalchuk-like scenario for Hurricanes Alex Semin.
- Lisa Dillman of the LA Times: Slava Voynov’s agent will attempt to have his suspension lifted. He’s been suspended indefinitely after being arrested on suspicion of domestic violence. He hasn’t been charged yet. Detectives are expected to meet with the DA on Monday.
“The player hasn’t been charged with any offense at this point and it’s very difficult for the NHL. We understand that,” Hedges said. “The NHLPA, we understand that, as well.
“But there comes a point where the player’s rights have to be looked at. From this point forward, the player is going to see what can be done to have the suspension lifted. The player has no control over the criminal prosecution at this point, nor should he.”
“But he has cooperated with everything he’s been asked to do. All he’s doing is to look forward to get back to playing hockey. If he is subsequently charged, he looks forward to defending himself on those charges, if in fact they do occur.”
“Slava believes he is innocent. If he has to have his day in court, he will. We all respect the law. But there comes a point where you just can’t sit back.”
“…I think his rights are being infringed right now. That’s the unfortunate part of this process.”
- Kevin Allen of USA Today: Ducks GM Bob Murray has to at least explore his options with John Gibson out at least six with groin issues, and Frederik Andersen dealing with some leg tightness. Free agents include Ilya Bryzgalov, Martin Brodeur and Tomas Vokoun. Unlikely trade option, as they would have to give up assets, could include James Riemer. Riding it out is the likely option.
- Rangers and Marc Staal … Mike Babcock and the Red Wings