- Rob Vollman of ESPN: Vollman looks at some potential trade targets (using analytics) from the Coyotes, Sabres, Hurricanes and Oilers.
Forwards – aside from Eric Staal, Alex Semin, Chris Stewart, Nail Yakupov, Jordan Eberle and Antoine Vermette, some bottom-six could include: David Moss (versatile and inexpensive), Martin Erat ($4.5 million cap hit but could be available for cheap), Drew Stafford (provides secondary scoring and depth) and David Perron (secondary scoring).Defensemen – Tyler Myers and Keith Yandle are big names out there, but should also focus on Jeff Petry, Andrej Sekera and Zbynek Michalek.
Goalies – the Lightning and Capitals may look for a new backup goalie. The Flyers, Devils, Stars and Blue Jackets could look for one if they start to move up the standings. Options could be Viktor Fasth, Cam Ward, Devan Dubnyk, Michal Neuvirth and Jhonas Enroth.
Oilers – need a top-six center with defensive and/or leadership abilities, left-sided defenseman and a goaltender.
Coyotes – need low-cost scoring forwards, as well as some defensive help.
Hurricanes – could use a little of everything.
Sabres – already have lots of picks and prospects. Could use some more “role-playing components.” A veteran that doesn’t have a prominent role with a contender.
- Sarah McLellan of the Arizona Republic: Coyotes Shane Doan isn’t thinking of asking for a trade to seek out a Stanley Cup with another organization.
“It hasn’t even crossed my mind,” he said. “It’s not even something I’m thinking about. I don’t foresee me ever making that decision.”
- Sarah McLellan of the Arizona Republic: (chat) The Oilers trade demands for Taylor Hall and Jordan Eberle may not work with what the Coyotes would be willing to give up. May not be a realistic trading partner.
- James Gordon: “Have to admit in kinda stunned by this Taylor Hall trade talk. You’re probably guaranteed to draft a franchise C to play with him.”
- Michael Russo: 18 scouts at the Wild-Bruins game last night, including Blue Jackets GM Jarmo Kekalainen. Blues GM Doug Armstrong was on the list to attend the game, but he didn’t end up attending the game. Aaron Portzline: Kekalainen could be advance scouting for their New Year’s Eve game.
- Gary Lawless: The rumors that Alex Burmistrov is in Winnipeg are not true. He’s playing for Russia at the Channel Cup in Sochi.