On the Tampa Bay Lighting and Arizona Coyotes …
- Craig Custance of ESPN: It’s becoming clear that Steven Stamkos may be better suited in Tampa to play on the wing. Stamkos finds it easier to create speed for his game when he’s at center. A scout agrees that Stamkos is better suited for the Lightning on the wing, but for other teams it could be down the middle.
“In their situation, Stammer has to go to the wing,” the scout said. “The coaches, they’re not going to say it , but they would probably say the same thing. The GM and the scouts and everyone else would too. But Stammer wants to play center.”
It’s just another thing to take into consideration when it comes to a new contract. Stamkos wants to win a Cup, but he may need more convincing if he wants to do it in Tampa, it may have to be on the wing.
- With a Stamkos contract extension still not in place, it could be delaying other extensions, including RFA Nikita Kucherov. There have been no contract negotiations between the Lightning and Kucherov yet.
“I think it’s a perfectly reasonable way to go about things for the Lightning,” one source said. “All the dominoes fall into place after he’s signed or not signed because is such a big piece.”
Kucherov has put up better numbers than Brandon Saad at a similar age. Another good regular/post season could put in Saad territory – six years, $36 million. An offer sheet threat could be there, especially his Stamkos gets a big deal.
- If the Coyotes fall out of the playoff race, Mikkel Boedker’s name could join the trade market. After signing a one-year deal, he’s not eligible for a contract extension until after January 1st. The 25-year old will be a UFA and there could be a good market for him. It might be best for the Coyotes to stockpile some more assets.
On the Pittsburgh Penguins …
- Bob McKenzie: The Penguins would like to make a trade first, but based on GM Jim Rutherford’s comments, coach Mike Johnston appears to be put on notice. McKenzie notes that it’s his opinion/interpretation of the comments and not “reporting” on what is happening.
On Alexander Semin …
- HabsLinks: Renaud Lavoie said that if Alexander Semin clears waivers, he’ll be sent to the AHL. Semin’s agent if looking for a team in Europe.