- Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet: The Islanders had hoped to be able to re-sign Johnny Boychuk around $5.8 million, came up to $6 million. Boychuk left money on the table, but he likes his role with the Islanders.
The Maple Leafs would rather keep Nazem Kadri than trade him. The question has been raise that if his recent team suspension would hurt his trade value, but after some investigation, it would appear that it’s a no.
“Past teammates and coaches, and even opponents, respect his ability and his compete level. That’s the highest compliment he gets: his fearlessness and willingness to stand up against anyone at any time. However, whatever worries the Maple Leafs away from the rink, it’s not a secret to the rest of the NHL. That’s why his value hasn’t dropped; because the teams I queried have the same concerns. Brendan Shanahan must know that, too.”
On executive pointed out that three coach that have had short-term success with Kadri are available: Peter DeBoer, Dale Hunter and Dallas Eakins. Friedman thinks they will talk to Hunter in the offseason, but it would surprise people if he would take the job.
Blues GM Doug Armstrong said that Vladimir Sobotka wants to play in the World Championship for the Czech’s and won’t be joining the Blues for the playoffs. Sobotka still owes the Blues another season.
The Blues, Lightning and Capitals were among the teams interested in Maple Leafs Roman Polak at the deadline. The Maple Leafs have coveted Blues prospects Petteri Lindbohm and Joel Edmondson. The Blues thought the price was too high.
Talk that the Maple Leafs and Kings had revisited Joffrey Lupul talks before the deadline were shot down.
The Bruins had turned down at least one trade offer that involved Danton Heinen of the University of Denver. Heinen was drafted 116th in the 2014 draft.
- Mark Purdy of the San Jose Mercury News: One theory is that Shanks GM Doug Wilson’s comments were to try and coax Joe Thornton to revoke his no-movement clause. Trading either Thornton or Patrick Marleau would net the Sharks a high draft pick or two. Will Thornton be angry enough to waive his no-move? Purdy doesn’t think so.
There might even be empathy for his situation. In a dressing room popularity election between Thornton and Wilson, it’s a sure bet Wilson would finish second. And it wouldn’t be close. Wilson said before the season that he wanted “players who are comfortable being uncomfortable.” He’s definitely succeeded in the “uncomfortable” part.
It may be time for owner Hasso Plattner to mediate the situation.
