Jim Jamieson of the Vancouver Province: The Canucks biggest offseason need is to find a dynamic, mobile defenseman, whether through free agency or trade. Bo Horvat’s role with the Canucks needs to expand next season to their second line center, moving Nick Bonino to the No. 3 slot where he’s better suited. They could look to move one of Kevin Bieksa (34-years old) or Dan Hamhuis (32-years old). Pending UFA Shawn Matthias will likely be moving on. The Canucks would consider re-signing Brad Richardson for their fourth-line center.
Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun: Leafs president Brendan Shanahan, and assistant GMs Kyle Dubas and Mark Hunter just returned from scouting the under-18 championships in Switzerland. Mike Futa, Paul Fenton, George McPhee or Joe Nieuwendyk could be on the Leafs GM radar. Shanahan is not putting his own name in the GM race. Among the coaches the Leafs could be interested in, include Ken Hitchcock, Todd McLellan and Mike Babcock. Some think Hitchcock could end up in Edmonton. McLellan could be a replacement in St. Louis or Detroit if their coaches move on. Jeff Blashill could replace Babcock.
Elliotte Friedman: Hearing that Artem Panarin (KHL’s St. Petersburg’s leading scorer) is close to signing with the Blackhawks. Chris Johnston: The Flames were also interested.
Lou Korac: Blues coach Ken Hitchcock said that he’s going to sit back with his family and reflect before deciding his future.
Jimmy Murphy: Don Sweeney is still the leading candidate for the Bruins GM position. A source is saying that Sweeney would like to retain Claude Julien and others wouldn’t. His Julien opinion isn’t the only thing that is holding the hiring up. The Bruins are doing their due diligence.
