Garrioch roundup …
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Thought is that unless things turn around quickly in Columbus, Todd Richards could be relieved of his duties. John Tortorella could be the top candidate to replace Richards if they make a move. Other possibilities include Jacques Martin, Randy Carlyle and Ron Wilson.
- The Ducks have Paul MacLean on staff if they decided to replace Bruce Boudreau.
- Bruins Claude Julien has three years left on his contract at $3 million per season. Problem is, if they make a move, they won’t find a better coach.
- Kings players may be tuning out head coach Darryl Sutter. The Kings may have an in-house replacement in John Stevens – who they gave a lot of money to remain with the team.
- Wild’s Niklas Backstrom is now the teams No. 3 goalie. The 37-year old has $4 million left on his contract. The Wild couldn’t buy him out in the summer as he was injured. GM Chuck Fletcher tried to trade him in the offseason, but there were no takers.
- At some point the Flames will have to trade one of their three goalies. The Flames like all three and will wait to see if the goalie market improves.
- It’s doubtful that Bruins GM Don Sweeney will trade Zdeno Chara anytime soon. There was talk that he was quietly being shopped, but that is not the case. The Bruins are already without injured Dennis Seidenberg. Chara’s name may have come up as there are some teams looking for help on the blueline – the Blackhawks, Kings and Blue Jackets. The Bruins are also looking for a defenseman.
- The Blues may be willing to listen to offers on defenseman Carl Gunnarsson.
- Braydon Coburn or Matt Carle could be available in Tampa.
On the Sabres and Blue Jackets …
- Michael Russo of the Star Tribune: It seems unlikely that the Sabres would have interest in Minnesota’s goalie Niklas Backstrom. If Chad Johnson doesn’t work in Buffalo, they would likely find a younger, cheap option.
- Blue Jackets coach Todd Richards could be on the hot seat with John Tortorella, Randy Carlyle and Ron Wilson looking for employment.