Rumours from Bruce Garrioch

Here are the latest rumors from Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun, who seems to have dipped into the eggnog early:

Garrioch reports that the Pittsburgh Penguins have talked to the Atlanta Thrashers about Marian Hossa. Penguins GM Ray Shero has been looking for a winger for Sidney Crosby and the UFA may be available at the trade deadline.

It's also possible that the Nashville Predators could send J.P. Dumont to the Pens. Shero used to be GM David Poile's assistant.

The New York Rangers haven't had any talks with goaltender Henrik Lundqvist, who can become a restricted free agent July 1 and is making $4.25 million this season. The Rangers are going to have to pony up about $8 million per season on a new contract to fend off the threat of an offer sheet from a team looking for goaltending help. The Tampa Bay Lightning, LA Kings and Edmonton Oilers would all be in the running.

Garrioch speculates that the Detroit Red Wings could be in the running to acquire Jaromir Jagr, if the Rangers decide to shop the forward.

Garrioch is repeating the rumors that Patrick Marleau is being shopped by the San Jose Sharks, and the Thrashers would love to bring him in as their no. 1 centre.

The Columbus Blue Jackets will entertain offers for three players if they drop out of the playoff race. Forwards Sergei Fedorov and Michael Peca, along with defenseman Adam Foote will be shopped by GM Scott Howson at the trade deadline if that happens.

The Ottawa Senators might move forward Antoine Vermette before the deadline. The Penguins made a call earlier in the season and may still be interested.