- Craig Davis of the Sun-Sentinel: (quote is before yesterday’s meeting) Panthers GM Dale Tallon said that contract extension talks with Jaromir Jagr’s agent have only been in general terms, but they are interested in bringing him back.
“I can see what the effect he’s had on our young players already and the effect he’s had on our team. If that continues and he wants to stay here, then we have definite interest in bringing him back. But it has to be a mutual understanding that he wants to be here before we can have those discussions. That hasn’t come to fruition yet,” Tallon said.
“We’re not going to discuss any of that until after the season. We’re going to make sure we’re all thinking about the playoffs and that’s all we’re thinking about .”
- Evan Peaslee of Sportsnet: Elliotte Friendman saying that Panthers 2010 5th round draft pick and Hobey Baker Award finalist Zach Hyman is likely to become a UFA this offseason.
“At this point in time there’s some doubt that the Panthers are going to be able to get it done,” Friedman said during the second intermission’s Headlines segment. “If Florida does not sign him by August 16th he’s an unrestricted free agent.”
- Aaron Portzline: Blue Jackets college prospect Mike Reilly last week: “There’s probably no real chance that (leaving school immediately to play in the NHL) will happen. I’m worried about finishing my degree. That’s more important to my family.”
- Ronnie Shuker of The Hockey News: Title: “Why the Penguins should trade Sidney Crosby for the No. 1 pick”
After an off-season of upheaval in which Pittsburgh brought in a new coach, a new GM and a new supporting cast for Sidney Crosby, there would be few options left but to raze the roster to the ground and begin anew. Sure, the Penguins could use Marc-Andre Fleury as a scapegoat and try using the same roster again next season with a different goalie, but that would only be putting off the inevitable.
Would the Pens actually trade Crosby for the No. 1 pick?
Well, there’s the Captain Obvious argument that if Wayne Gretzky can be traded, then anyone can be dealt, but that’s not the only reason for the Penguins to deal Crosby. Assuming McDavid comes as advertised, they would be getting a potential Crosby for an about-to-pass-his-prime Crosby who will remain one head hit away from retirement for the rest of his career.
The Sabres may be on the lottery team that might keep the No. 1 pick over Crosby, the others might be more shortsighted. Crosby be does hold a no-trade clause.