Garrioch Roundup …
- Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: Talk is that Joe Sakic is calling around the league desperately looking for help to kickstart the 4-9-1 Avs. Sources saying they are wanting to improve their blueline.
- Flames GM Brad Treliving has been trying to gauge the trade market for defensemen Dennis Wideman ($5.25 million) and pending UFA Kris Russel (could be looking for $4 to $4.5 million on a new deal). The Flames have to deal with pending RFAs Sean Monahan and Johnny Gaudreau, who both could be wanting $5 million on a new deal.
- Maple Leafs GM Lou Lamoriello has been checking out the goalie market. He’ll basically talk about anyone on their roster other than Morgan Rielly.
- Devils GM Ray Shero hasn’t been in a hurry to make a trade since taking over the Devils. Word is he’s been checking around to see if there is any interest in defenseman Eric Gelinas.
- Word is contract extension talks between the Lightning and Steven Stamkos are quiet.
- A couple teams have been talking to the Hurricanes about goalie Cam Ward.
- Flyers GM Ron Hextall is trying to make a move but isn’t having any luck. He’s trying to clear salary. Hextall has been trying to trade Luke Schenn. He’d like to recall Andy MacDonald.
- The Blackhawks would like to add another defenseman before the trade deadline.
- The Sabres, Blue Jackets, Avalanche, Blues, Bruins and Ducks have also been checking out what defensemen could be available.
Sportsnet’s Headlines …
- Jeff Simmons of Sportsnet: Elliotte Friedman on Patrick Marleau trade talk. Marleau has no-movement clause and a $6.66 million cap hit through the end of next year.
“It is a complex one. It’s difficult to pin down because none of the particulars are talking,” Friedman told Damien Cox during the weekly Headlines segment. “So I can’t say who is pushing for it, but his name is out there.”
- Damien Cox: The Maple Leafs don’t want to call up William Nylander or any of their better young prospects.