- TSN Insider Trading: The Sabres have extra first round picks (Blues and Islanders) and could be the most aggressive when it comes to Evander Kane. The Jets and Sabres had previously talked about Tyler Myers. The Canucks would also be interested in Kane, but it may be an offseason deal for them. The Bruins have talked to the Blue Jackets about Cam Atkinson.
- Stephen Lorenzo of the NY Daily News: Maple Leafs Phil Kessel has been mentioned as a possible trade candidate for the Islanders, who are missing Kyle Okposo for at least another month. It seems unlikely that GM Garth Snow would pursue Kessel and his $8 million cap hit.
- Dave Isaac of the Courier Post: If Flyers Kimmo Timonen want to chase one last Stanley Cup in his final season, he may ask the Flyers for a trade. He might be able to get into three games before the deadline. If a team like the Predators or Sharks are interested, they may want to see Timonen in some game action before giving up a draft pick for him.
“Not right now, no,” Timonen said. “I just…It’s three weeks away, that trade deadline. Once I get into team practices and that kind of stuff, I’m sure we’re gonna see how I feel and go from there. I haven’t thought about that far.”
- The Fourth Period: The Stars have been looking for help on their blueline and are one of the teams interested in Dion Phaneuf. Phaneuf had a 12 team trade list. It’s not known if the Stars are on his list. If the Leafs move Phaneuf, it’s thought that they will have to retain some salary. The Stars have Shawn Horcoff ($5.5 million), Erik Cole ($4.5 million) and Rich Peverley ($3.25 million) off the books this offseason. It’s not known how far they have discussed Phaneuf, but it’s believed they will continue talks leading up to the deadline.
- Hope Smoke: Ray Ferraro said the Maple Leafs could trade Jonathan Bernier at the draft if the right offer is there. They have missed the playoffs for two years with him so what is there to lose?
- Matt Larkin of The Hockey News: Viktor Tikhonov wants to return to the NHL next season. Artemi Panarin is also interested in heading overseas.
