- Bob McKenzie of TSN: Sources have said that LA Kings winger Ryan Smyth indicated to the Kings that he prefers to play next season in Edmonton if a trade could be worked out. Smyth is in the final year in which he is set to make $4.5 million, but carries a $6.25 million cap hit. He was 4th in Kings scoring last year with 47 points in 82 games, logging over 18 minutes a game. There haven’t been any trade talks between the 2 sides, but both are aware of the situation.
- Terry Jones of the Edmonton Sun: According to one report Smyth denied that he asked to be traded. “There’s even the thought that crosses one’s mind that Los Angeles Kings GM Dean Lombardi might be conjuring up some sort of way to make up for Steve Tambellini unloading that worthless piece of unmotivated Dustin Penner on him for the 19th pick in Friday’s NHL Entry Draft.”
“Dustin is at the crossroads of his career … he can either become a dominant power forward … or be a dominant number four hitter for the El Cid Lounge in a men’s softball league.” — Lombardi.
The Oilers have some depth on left wing, but Oilers fans think that Taylor Hall could move to center, or have Magnus Paajarvi and Linus Omark to right wing.
- Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: Ryan Smyth on his request to be traded back to Edmonton,
“Holy Cow … I have no idea where that’s coming from. I have not asked for a trade.”
The LA Times reported the Smyth had his agent sound out with the Kings about a possible move back to Edmonton. The Oilers can’t comment on the situation as he’s property of another team. The Oilers wouldn’t give up a lot to acquire him. Matheson thinks Paajarvi could move to the right side if they could work out a trade.
- Helene Elliott of the LA Times: A person with knowledge of the situation cites “family’s best interests and preference for the city” as reason’s for desire to return to Edmonton. Smyth had his agent talk with GM Dean Lombardi. Lombardi has spoken with Smyth, “But I would like to keep those discussions private,” Lombardi said Monday. If he was moved out, it would clear a big chunk of cap space for a future trade or free agent signing. The Kings may take a mid-range draft pick for Smyth.