- Elliotte Friendman of Sportsnet: Ducks GM Bob Murray tried to sign Matt Beleskey before the trade deadline, and will likely make another attempt. Contract decisions he can put off until next summer include Frederik Andersen, Simon Despres, John Gibson, Ryan Kesler, Hampus Lindholm and Sami Vatanen.
Friedman thinks the Ducks will talk to Kesler about a contract extension this offseason.An executive said that he wouldn’t be shocked if the Ducks traded one of Andersen or Gibson this offseason.
If the Rangers don’t bring back Martin St. Louis, would the Devils make a run at him? The Devils need some short-term veterans and they could flip him at the deadline for draft picks or prospects.
The Maple Leafs would like to talk to Rangers assistant GM Jeff Gorton, but can’t see the Rangers allowing it. A logical successor to Glen Sather.
Heard similar rumor of Phil Housley being the lead candidate for the Devils, but it was also met with some strong denials. Believe that John Hynes is a finalist for the position, and sources are saying their is at least one other candidate.
The Competition Committee meet this week in New York. They will vote on GM recommendations including the coaches’ challenge and three-on-three overtime. The players may ask to try it in the preseason, which would put it off for another year.
Executive compensation will be cleared up with the Board of Governors meeting in Las Vegas. Some of the supporters of the compensation rule didn’t figure it would involve fired coaches and managers. Wonder if it’s possible that the Oilers and Sabres get their picks back for Peter Chiarelli and Dan Bylsma.
Known candidates for the Maple Leafs vacant GM position: Mike Futa, Mark Hunter and George McPhee. They won’t have a traditional manager position.
The power rests with Brendan Shanahan and Babcock, with Kyle Dubas, Hunter (especially in amateur scouting) and Brandon Pridham in major roles. What the GM is going to do is have a voice, then take the plan and find ways to implement it. Dave Nonis did a lot of this last season, using his connections and knowledge to lay the groundwork for trades.
Scott Howson could fit what the Leafs are looking for. They might also be interested in the Brandon Wheat Kings owner, GM and head coach Kelly McCrimmon in some role.
The Avs are looking for someone to play with Erik Johnson. The Blue Jackets and Sharks are also looking for a defenseman. The Sharks also need to add a goalie.
Doesn’t sound like contract talks between the Wild and Devan Dubnyk began last week. On GM who is looking for a goalie wasn’t counting on Dubnyk being available.
The Capitals are looking for a top-six winger, but don’t bother about asking for Andre Burakovsky or Evgeny Kuznetsov.
Zach Hyman has told the Panthers that he won’t be signing and will become a free agent in August. Some teams might be interested in trading for him, despite the fact that they could sign him without giving up assets. There is some interest from the Red Wings, Sharks, Leafs and others. The Panthers would love to get a draft pick for him.
