Thursday, July 31, 2008

NHL and hockey rumors for Aug 1, 2008

The Edmonton Oilers have hired Vancouver Canucks assistant GM Steve Tambellini as their new GM, while Kevin Lowe has been promoted to the role of President of Hockey Operations for Rexall sports. Kevin Prendergast, who has been the Oielrs' Vice-President of Hockey Operations, will move in as the new assistant GM. Brochu's take: Maybe those rumors of Tambellini not getting along with new Canucks GM Mike Gillis were true.

The Chicago Blackhawks Scotty Bowman as a Senior Advisor, Hockey Operations. Bowman's son Stan is an assistant GM, Hockey Operations with the Blackhawks. Bowman has spent the last 17 years with the Detroit Red Wings organization, recently as an advisor.

The Ottawa Senators have avoided arbitration with Antoine Vermette and has signed the forward to a two-year, $5.525 million contract. Brochu's take: Hopefully this will keep those stupid Vermette rumors coming from the Ottawa Sun to rest...until Bruce Garrioch comes out with his latest "musings".

The Nashville Predators have signed forward Jerred Smithson to a two-year, $1.475 million contract extension. The Preds announced today that the club signed defenseman Ville Koistinen to a one-year, $700000 contract, which he was awarded through arbitration earlier this week.

According to Newsday, Petr Nedved will be at the New York Rangers training camp, trying to earn a contract with the team. Nedved spent the last season with Sparta Praha in the Czech Republic, where he had 20 goals and 5 assists in 45 games.

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

NHL and hockey rumors for July 31, 2008

The Minnesota Wild have bought out the last 3 years of Mark Parrish's contract. The cap hit will be spread out for the next 6 years. Parrish is now an unrestricted free agent. Brochu's take: Parrish will be a cheap pick up for a team looking for a decent 2nd/3rd liner.

The Detroit Red Wings have avoided arbitration and have re-signed forward Valteri Filppula to a five-year, $15 million contract.

The Columbus Blue Jackets have re-signed goaltender Pascal Leclaire to a three-year, $11.4 million contract. The deal will pay Leclaire $3 million this season, $3.6 million in 2009-10 and $4.8 million in 2010-11.

The Carolina Hurricanes have signed forward Drayson Bowman to a three-year, $2.06 million entry-level contract.

Brochu's European rumor roundup:

Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Jaroslav Modry is very close to signing with Czech Extraliga club HC Bílí Tygři Liberec. Source

In an interview with hokej.sk, Ladislav Nagy acknowledged that he has had offers to play in Russia, but he wants to remain in the NHL. Nagy also expressed an interest in playing in Canada, and would not mind a lower salary to stay in the NHL. Brochu's take: This certainly adds to the rumors that the Toronto Maple Leafs were interested in him. Source

Swedish reports are indicating that Nashville Predators forward Jan Hlavac could be signing with Swedish team Linkoping.

There are rumors that Washington Capitals forward Ben Clymer could be signing with KHL team Ak Bars Kazan or Swiss Nationalliga A club Biel/Bienne. Source

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

NHL and hockey rumors for July 30, 2008

The Minnesota Wild have placed forward Mark Parrish on waivers. According to the Star-Tribune, if he clears the 24-hour waivers, it is likely he will be bought out of the remaining three years of his contract and will become a free agent. Brochu's take: A more than serviceable player, Parrish ended up in Jacques Lemaire's doghouse. I'm sure someone will pick him up.

The Ottawa Senators have re-signed forward Josh Hennessy to a two-year, two-way contract.

The Pittsburgh Penguins have re-signed center Dave Gove and defenseman Danny Richmond to one-year contracts.

In an interview on AM 640 in Toronto, Carolina Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford stated that defenseman Bret Hedican is likely to sign with a California based team. Brochu's take: The San Jose Sharks and Anaheim Ducks are pretty set on their defense, which makes the Los Angeles Kings the most likely destination. Rumors of him signing with the Kings have been strong all summer.

Brochu's European rumor roundup:

Several NHL teams have been pursuing Finnish free agent defenseman Juha Uotila, including the Phoenix Coyotes, Dallas Stars and Edmonton Oilers. Source

There are rumors that forward Marty Murray may be returning to the NHL. Murray spent last season playing for HC Lugano in Switzerland.

Monday, July 28, 2008

NHL and hockey rumors for July 29, 2008

The Florida Panthers have avoided arbitration with defenseman Jay Bouwmeester and has signed him to a one-year, $4.875 million contract. It's believed Bouwmeester wants to test the unrestricted free agent market next season, when he will be 25 years old. Brochu's take: When the Florida Panthers are out of the playoff run (it's a question of when, not if), expect Bouwmeester to be shopped aggressively. It would seem Bo has no intention of staying in Sunrise any longer.

The Atlanta Thrashers have signed forward Matt Siddall to a multi-year contract.

The Boston Bruins have signed forwards Nate Thompson and Martin St. Pierre to undisclosed contracts.

The Ottawa Senators have signed goaltender Jeff Glass to a one-year, two-way contract.

There are rumors that the Los Angeles Kings and Phoenix Coyotes are interested in unrestricted free agent forward Martin Gelinas.

The Tampa Bay Lightning are expected to announce the signing of the No. 1 overall pick in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft, Steven Stamkos, to a three-year, entry level contract on Tuesday.

Sunday, July 27, 2008

NHL and hockey rumors for July 28, 2008

Florida Panthers restricted free agent Jay Bouwmeester has reportedly turned down a multi-year contract offer from the Florida Panthers and will go forward with his arbitration hearing scheduled for July 29. Several reports say the all-star defenseman turned down a deal worth more than $5 million per season. Several teammates and "sources" don't believe that Bouwmeester will be in Florida for the 2009-2010 season. Brochu's take: Expect the Bouwmeester rumors to spiral out of control for the upcoming season. Source

Swedish reports are saying that the New York Rangers have re-signed forward Fredrik Sjostrom to a one-year, $840 000 contract.

There are rumors that the Toronto Maple Leafs, Atlanta Thrashers and Nashville Predators are interested in free agent forward Ladislav Nagy.

Brochu's European rumor roundup:

Atlanta Thrashers defenseman Alexei Zhitnik has signed a try-out contract with KHL team Dynamo Moskva (Moscow).

Phoenix Coyotes forward Mathias Tjarnqvist is rumored to be signing with a Swedish Elite League team. Source

Saturday, July 26, 2008

NHL free agent signings for July 26, 2008

The Boston Bruins have officially bought out the final year of Glen Murray's $4.15 million per year contract. Murray will become an unrestricted free agent.

The Minnesota Wild have avoided arbitration with forward Pierre-Marc Bouchard and have agreed to a five-year, $20.4 million contract.

The Nashville Predators have signed center Rich Peverley to a two-year contract and signed goaltender Pekka Rinne to a one-year contract extension.

The Colorado Avalanche have re-signed forward Marek Svatos to a two-year, $4.1 million contract.

The New York Islanders have re-signed defenseman Bruno Gervais to a three-year, $2.2 million deal.

The Montreal Canadiens have signed forward Yanick Lehoux to a one-year contract. Lehoux played the 2007-2008 season with Russian team Atlant Mytischy.

The Columbus Blue Jackets have signed forward Mike York to a one-year deal. Brochu's take: This is interesting, as York had already signed with KHL team Sibir Novosibirsk. Seems that "ceasefire" between the NHL and KHL didn't last long.

Washington Capitlas defenseman Shaone Morrisonn was awarded a one-year contract worth $1.975 million in salary arbitration.

Thursday, July 24, 2008

Mariusz Czerkawski retires from hockey


Mariusz Czerkawski has decided to retire from hockey. The Polish forward played in 745 NHL games for the Edmonton Oilers, Boston Bruins, Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens and New York Islanders, totaling 215 goals and 220 assists. Czerkawski played the last two seasons for the Swiss Nationalliga A team Rapperswil-Jona Lakers, where he was the amongst the team leaders in points. Brochu's take: The "Polish Prince" was a decent scorer, both on and off the ice. Not only did he manage 20+ goals in 6 seasons, he managed to find time to marry (and divorce) ex-James Bond girl Izabella Scorupco. (The woman in the picture is his new wife, Miss Poland 2000). Source

The Chicago Blackhawks have traded forward Martin St. Pierre to the Boston Bruins for forward Pascal Pelletier.

Boston Bruins forward Glen Murray has passed waivers. It's rumored that he will be bought out as soon as possible.

Brochu's European rumor roundup:


Los Angeles Kings defenseman Kevin Dallman has left the organization and signed with KHL team Barys Astana in Kazakhstan.

Florida Panthers defenseman Magnus Johansson has signed a three-year contract with Swedish team Linkoping. He will be loaned to KHL team Atlant Mytischy for the first year. Source

Defenseman Tom Wandell has left the Dallas Stars organization and signed with SEL team Timra for the 2008-2009 season.

Montreal Canadiens defenseman Mathieu Biron will play with DEL team Frankfurt Lions for the 2008-2009 season. Source

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

NHL and hockey rumors for July 24, 2008

Here's another edition of Brochu's European rumor roundup:

Martin Rucinsky has signed with HC Sparta Praha (Prague) for the 2008-2009 season.

Niko Dimitrakos has left the Ottawa Senators organization and signed with Skellefteå of the Swedish Elite League.

Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Duvie Westcott has signed with Dinamo Riga in Latvia.

Detroit Red Wings forward Mark Hartigan has also signed with Dinamo Riga.

There are rumors that Anaheim Ducks forward Geoff Platt could be signing with Finnish club Ilves. Source

There are rumors that Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Niclas Wallin could be signing with SEL team Lulea.

Finnish reports have Atlanta Thrashers defenseman Mark Popovic signing with Tappara.

NHL free agent signings for July 23, 2008

The Vancouver Canucks have signed forwards Ryan Shannon, Rick Rypien, Mike Brown and defencemen Nathan McIver, Zach Fitzgerald and James Sharrow. They were all restricted free agents.

The Detroit Red Wings have signed forward Darren Haydar to a one-year, $525,000 contract. The Wings also re-signed left wing Ryan Oulahen to a one-year contract. Source

The Boston Bruins have placed forward Glen Murray on waivers. Murray has one year left on his contract that pays him $4.15 million in 2008-2009.

The Buffalo Sabres have signed forward Mathieu Darche to a one-year, two-way deal. Source

The Anaheim Ducks have re-signed head coach Randy Carlyle to a two-year contract extension.

Tuesday, July 22, 2008

NHL free agent signings for July 22, 2008

Look for my rumor report sometime later this week.

The Anaheim Ducks have signed left wing Ryan Donally to a two-year contract and forwards Josh Green and Troy Bodie to one-year contracts. The Ducks also signed their first round draft pick in the 2007 NHL Entry draft, Logan MacMillan to a three-year, entry-level contract.

The New York Rangers have agreed to terms with forward Hugh Jessiman.

The Philadelphia Flyers have signed defenseman Kevin Marshall.

The San Jose Sharks have re-signed left wing Riley Armstrong and right wing Mike Morris to one-year contracts. The Sharks also signed goaltenders Tyson Sexsmith and Timo Pielmeier to three-year contracts.

The Phoenix Coyotes have re-signed forward Daniel Carcillo to a two-year contract.

Poll Results:

What's been the dumbest signing so far?

Jeff Finger (4 years, $14 million)
222 (51%)
Cristobal Huet (4 years, $22.4 milllion)
19 (4%)
Brian Campbell (8 years, $56.8 million)
27 (6%)
Michael Ryder (3 years, $12 million)
32 (7%)
Wade Redden (6 years, $39 million)
86 (20%)
Mike Commodore (5 years, $18.75 million)
37 (8%)
Other
5 (1%)

Total Votes: 428

Thanks to everyone who voted in the polls! And in this case, the Jeff Finger deal won, but really there are only losers in this poll. ;-)

Monday, July 21, 2008

NHL and hockey rumors for July 22, 2008

The Los Angeles Kings have traded forward Lauri Tukonen to the Dallas Stars for forward Richard Clune. Brochu's take: The Kings' 11th overall pick in the 2004 NHL Entry draft, Tukonen has not developed as well as the other youngsters in the Kings' system. A fresh start could change that. As for Clune, he's an AHL depth player at best.

The Kings also re-signed defenseman Peter Harrold to a three-year contract.

According to Sportsnet, the Boston Bruins have avoided arbitration with defenseman Dennis Wideman and has signed a four-year deal worth $3.95 million a season.

The Detroit Red Wings have re-signed defenseman Jonathan Ericsson and goaltender Jimmy Howard to three-year contracts.

The Philadelphia Flyers have signed forward Joffrey Lupul to a four-year, $17 million contract extension, due to start in 2009-2010. Brochu's take: While this doesn't affect Philly's current cap problems, someone still has to go before the season starts.

The New York Rangers have agreed to terms on forward Greg Moore.

The Pittsburgh Penguins have re-signed defenseman Paul Bissonnette to a one-year deal and forward Jonathan Filewich to a two-year contract.

The Chicago Blackhawks have re-signed goaltender Corey Crawford to a one-year contract.

Sunday, July 20, 2008

NHL and hockey rumors for July 20, 2008

In the latest scuttlebutt about Mats Sundin signing with the Vancouver Canucks, a Swedish publication was running with the rumor that Sundin has chosen to play with the Canucks, whenever he does decide to return to the NHL. Sundin's Swedish based representative Claes Elefalk has already told TSN that the story was completely fabricated. Brochu's take: Why does the Toronto media skip a beat when Sundin sneezes? The simple fact is that he won't decide until August and no one in the world knows what Sundin is thinking. Source

The Philadelphia Flyers salary for the 2008-2009 NHL season is currently $60.592 million (according to nhlnumbers.com), which is around $4 million above the cap. There have been rumors that Mike Knuble and Derian Hatcher have been shopped, but there doesn't seem to be many takers.

According to the NHLPA website, forward Jeff Taffe has signed a one year deal with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

The Calgary Flames have signed forward Andre Roy to a one-year, two-way deal.

The Minnesota Wild have signed forward Stephane Veilleux to a one-year contract. They also re-signed left wing Peter Olvecky and defenseman Clayton Stoner to one-year contracts.

The New York Islanders have signed Danish forward Frans Nielsen to a four-year, $2.1 million contract. Brochu's take: The more Danes the better. Denmark is an emerging power in the hockey world.

Poll Results:

Which team was the biggest winner on July 1st?

Blackhawks (Campbell, Huet)
193 (35%)
Oilers (Cole, Brule)
216 (39%)
Devils (Rolston, Holik)
43 (7%)
Rangers (Redden, Rozsival)
46 (8%)
Other
51 (9%)

Total Votes: 549

Thanks to everyone who voted in the polls!

Saturday, July 19, 2008

NHL free agent signings for July 19, 2008

A lot of NHLer's have been signing in Europe, so here's another edition of Brochu's European rumor roundup:

San Jose Sharks forward Curtis Brown has signed with Kloten Flyers of the Swiss Nationalliga A.

Anaheim Ducks defenseman Joe DiPenta has signed with Swedish team Frolunda for the 2008-2009 season.

Dallas Stars goalie Johan Holmqvist has also signed with Frolunda Indians of the SEL.

Philadelphia Flyers forward Patrick Thoresen has signed with HC Lugano in Switzerland.

The Anaheim Ducks have signed forward Eric Boguniecki from ERC Ingolstadt in the DEL.

Columbus Blue Jackets forward Nate DiCasmirro has signed with HC Bolzano of the Italian Serie A.

New Jersey Devils forward Sergei Brylin is rumored to have signed a three-year deal with SKA St. Petersburg of the KHL.

Blue Jackets forward Mark Rycroft has signed to play with KHL team Dinamo Minsk in Belarus.

Friday, July 18, 2008

NHL free agent signings for July 18, 2008

The Buffalo Sabres have signed goalie Ryan Miller to a 5-year contract extension worth $6.25 million a year.

The Edmonton Oilers have signed goaltender Jeff Drouin-Deslauriers to a two-year contract.

The Atlanta Thrashers agreed to terms with center Angelo Esposito on a multi-year contract.

The Los Angeles Kings have signed forward David Meckler to a three-year, entry-level contract.

The New York Rangers agreed to terms with defenseman Brian Fahey.

The Columbus Blue Jackets have re-signed defenseman Aaron Rome to a one-year contract.

The Phoenix Coyotes have signed center Garth Murray to a one-year contract. The Yotes also signed left wing Jeff Hoggan and defenseman Ryan Lannon to one-year contracts.

The St. Louis Blues have re-signed defenseman Jeff Woywitka to a one-year contract, and have signed defenseman Andy Wozniewski to a contract.

Thursday, July 17, 2008

NHL free agent signings for July 17, 2008

The Pittsburgh Penguins acquired the rights to defenceman Danny Richmond from the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for the rights to Tim Brent.

The Atlanta Thrashers have signed forward Marty Reasoner to a contract. The Thrashers also re-signed restricted free-agent forward Brett Sterling to a multiple-year contract on Thursday.

The Montreal Canadiens have signed forward Max Pacioretty to a three-year, entry-level contract.

The San Jose Sharks have signed defensemen Matt Kinch and Brett Westgarth to one year deals.

The Calgary Flames have signed forward Jamie Lundmark and defenseman Adam Pardy to one-year contracts.

The New Jersey Devils have signed defenseman Jay Leach and left wings Jon DiSalvatore and Chad Wiseman.

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

NHL free agent signings for July 16, 2008 part 2

The Buffalo Sabres have signed Daniel Paille to a two-years, $2.25 million contact. Clarke MacArthur and Mark Mancari have also resigned, accepting their qualifying offers.

The Montreal Canadiens have re-signed defenseman Ryan O'Byrne to a three-year, $2.85 million contract. They have also signed free agent right-winger Mike Glumac and recently acquired defenceman Shawn Belle to one-year, two-way contracts.

The Nashville Predators have signed defenseman Kevin Klein to a two-year, $1.3 million contract.

The Columbus Blue Jackets have re-signed left wing Alexandre Picard and defenseman Marc Methot to one-year contracts; signed center Steve Kelly to a one-year contract.

The Los Angeles Kings have re-signed restricted free agent forward Gabe Gauthier to a two-year contract; goaltender Erik Ersberg to a one-year contract; forward Matt Moulson to a one-year contract; and defenseman Joe Piskula to a one-year contract.

NHL free agent signings for July 16, 2008

Catching up on some backlog, here are the latest NHL free agent signings:

The Edmonton Oilers have re-signed Shawn Horcoff to a 6-year, $33 million contract extension. Brochu's take: That's a lot of money for a 29-year old guy that's reached 70+ points. Even including his intangibles, he's overpaid.

The Oil have also re-signed Zach Stortini to a three-year, $2.1 million contract. They also signed right wing Carl Corazzini on a one-year contract.

The Atlanta Thrashers have signed restricted free agent goalie Kari Lehtonen to a one-year, $3 million contract. They also re-signed defenseman Nathan Oystrick and right wing Joey Crabb.

The New York Islanders have re-signed forward Jeff Tambellini to a two-year, $1.175 million contract. The Isles also signed forward Sean Bergenheim to a two-year contract worth $1.725 million.

The New York Rangers have have signed Nigel Dawes to a 1-Year, $587,500 contract. They have also signed Dan Fritsche to a one-year deal.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have agreed to terms with defensemen Jaime Sifers and Richard Petiot, center Alex Foster and right wing Ben Ondrus on one-year contracts.

NHL and hockey rumors for July 16, 2008

Here's an actual rumor report, as opposed to a list of signings. A post about that will be posted tonight.

According to Don Brennan of the Ottawa Sun, there are rumors of a three way trade between the Chicago Blackhawks, Los Angeles Kings and Ottawa Senators. According to "insiders", Ottawa would trade goalie Martin Gerber and defenceman Andrej Meszaros to Los Angeles, the Kings would move forward Anze Kopitar to Chicago and the Blackhawks would send goalie Nikolai Khabibulin and either of defenseman Brent Seabrook or Cam Barker to the Senators. Brochu's take: A rumor that came from the Ottawa Sun and it's not from Bruce Garrioch? It's GOTTA be true! But seriously, this won't happen. Kopitar is part of the youth movement in LA, and Ottawa really doesn't get any better. The likelihood of the Hawks shopping one of their young D-men is well known. Source

There's also a rumor going in Vancouver circles that the Canucks would trade Kevin Bieksa to the Kings for Michal Handzus and a 3rd round pick in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. Brochu's take: Bieksa's been speculated to be"on the block" recently, but this doesn't really make sense from the Canucks part.

The Carolina Hurricanes are rumored to be interested in signing Jeff O'Neill to a two-way contract. It's believed that O'Neill is holding out for a one-way deal.

The Columbus Blue Jackets have traded winger Joakim Lindstrom to the Anaheim Ducks for a conditional pick in the 2009 draft.

The Blackhawks have also signed defensemen Aaron Johnson and Doug Janik to one-year contracts, and re-signed center Colin Fraser to a one-year contract.

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

NHL free agent signings for July 15, 2008

The Colorado Avalanche have re-signed forward Cody McLeod to a one-year contract; agreed to terms with goaltenders Jason Bacashihua and Tyler Weiman, defensemen Darcy Campbell and Aaron MacKenzie and centers Nathan Smith and Philippe Dupuis. The Avs also re-signed right wing Cody McCormick to a one-year contract and signed right wing Brian Willsie to a one-year contract.

The Minnesota Wild have re-signed defenseman John Scott, center Corey Locke and right wing Danny Irmen to one-year contracts; signed center Bryan Lundbohm to a one-year contract and defenseman Brandon Rogers to a multi-year contract.

The St. Louis Blues have forward Cam Paddock.

The Detroit Red Wings have announced the retirement of right wing Dallas Drake.

Monday, July 14, 2008

NHL free agent signings for July 14, 2008

The New York Rangers have traded forward Ryan Hollweg to the Toronto Maple Leafs for a 5th round pick in 2009.

The New York Islanders have fired coach Ted Nolan. Nolan had one year left on his contract. GM Garth Snow cited "philosophical differences" as the reason he was let go. Brochu's take: "Philosophical differences" means the two didn't like each other. Nolan is a talented coach, but he seems to get on the wrong side of GMs. Will another team give a chance, perhaps a young team like LA?

The Dallas Stars have signed coach Dave Tippett to a two-year extension.

The Tampa Bay Lightning have re-signed goalie Mike Smith to a two-year, $4.4 million contract extension that begins in 2009-2010.

The St. Louis Blues have resigned Jay McClement to a one-year, $950,000 deal.

The San Jose Sharks have signed forwards Tom Cavanagh and Brad Staubitz to one-year contracts.

The Columbus Blue Jackets have re-signed forward Derek MacKenzie to a two-year contract.

The Nashville Predators have signed forward Joel Ward to a one-year contract.

The Carolina Hurricanes have signed centers Patrick Dwyer and Joe Jensen and defenseman Mark Flood to one-year contracts.

Sunday, July 13, 2008

NHL and hockey rumors for July 14, 2008

There's been a lot of movement to the KHL lately, so without further ado:

Brochu's European rumor roundup:

There are rumors that Brendan Shanahan has been pursued by several Russian teams, including SKA St. Petersburg and Dynamo Moskva (Moscow).

The Florida Panthers are rumored to be close to re-signing forward Janis Sprukts, who played in Finland last season.

Defenseman Branislav Mezei has signed with Barys Astana in Kazakhstan for the 2008-2009 season. Source

Forward Josef Stumpel has also signed with KHL team Barys Astana for one year.

Forward Mike York has signed with Sibir Novosibirsk of the KHL.

Defenseman Steve McCarthy has signed with Salavat Yulaev Ufa of the KHL.

The Atlanta Thrashers have signed forward Jason Williams to a one year, $2.2 million contract.

The Pittsburgh Penguins have signed forward Kris Beech to a one year, two-way contract.

The Columbus Blue Jackets have signed forward Craig MacDonald to a contract.

The Dallas Stars have signed forward Jamie Benn to a three-year, entry level contract.

The St. Louis Blues have signed forward Brad Winchester to a contract.

Saturday, July 12, 2008

NHL free agent signings for July 11, 2008

Sorry about the delay, there will be another post later today focused on the KHL (Russian) rumors that have been around lately.

The Minnesota Wild have traded defenseman Shawn Belle to the Montreal Canadiens for forward Corey Locke.

The Wild have also signed forward Krys Kolanos to a contract.

The Anaheim Ducks have signed defenseman Brennan Evans to a two-year contract and defenseman Steve Montador to a one-year contract.

According to RDS.ca, the Tampa Bay Lightning have re-signed Vincent Lecavalier to a 11 year, $85M contract extension.

The Bolts also announced the resignation of executive vice president and general manager Jay Feaster. He has come to terms with the owners, as Feaster had 3 years left on his contract. Brochu's take: Everyone saw this coming when most of the deals were announced by Koules, Barrie or Lawton. It won't take him long to find a job though, as he is well respected member in the old boys club.

The Tampa Bay Lightning have re-signed forward Chris Gratton to a one-year contract.

The Ottawa Senators have signed goaltender Mitchell O'Keefe and defenseman Brendan Bell to one-year contracts.

The Vancouver Canucks have signed forward Jason Krog to a one-year deal.

The Washington Capitals have signed RFA forward Boyd Gordon to a one-year contract.

The St. Louis Blues have signed defenseman Andy Wozniewski to a contract.

Thursday, July 10, 2008

Radulov signs with Salavat Yulaev Ufa!

Nashville Predators forward Alexander Radulov has signed a three-year contract with KHL team Salavat Yulaev Ufa. In an interview with Russian paper Sport-Express, Radulov stated that he was approached by the Russian team with a great offer, an offer that Nashville could not match. Brochu's take: This isn't a rumor folks, this has happened. Radulov is due to be a RFA next year, so his contract will be suspended. If he ever returns to the NHL, he will have one year remaining on his entry-level deal. Source

There are rumors that Philadelphia Flyers forward Patrick Thoresen could be headed to Switzerland or Sweden, with SEL clubs Skellefteå, Timrå, and Brynäs the most interested in the Norwegian forward. Source

Swedish sources are saying that defenseman Jaroslav Modry could be signing with Malmo of the Elitserien for 2008-2009. Source

Florida Panthers defenseman Magnus Johansson is rumored to be headed to Atlant Mytischi of the KHL.

The San Jose Sharks have signed defenseman Brendan Buckley to a contract. Buckley spent last season playing for German club Iserlohner Roosters. Source

Goalie Mike Morrison has left the New York Islanders organization and signed with Olimpija Ljubljana in Slovenia. Source

Defenseman Bryce Lampman has left the Dallas Stars organization and signed with Amur Tigers Khabarovsk in Russia.

Edmonton Oilers forward Jonas Almtorp has been given a try-out for Lulea.

NHL free agent signings for July 10, 2008

The Team 1040 radio in Vancouver is reporting that several sources believe that Mats Sundin will be signing the 2-year, $20 million contract offered by the Canucks in the next 7-10 days. Brochu's take: No one knows what Sundin is thinking at the moment (neither does Sundin himself), but the feeling in the Canucks organization is that they feel confident they can sign him.

The Vancouver Canucks have signed Pavol Demitra to a two-year, $8 million contract. Brochu's take: So the rumor we heard back in April has finally come true.

The Canucks also signed defenseman Rob Davison to a one-year, $560,000 contract.

The Edmonton Oilers have signed defenseman Jason Strudwick to a one-year contract.

The Columbus Blue Jackets have signed left wing Nikita Filatov to a three-year, entry level contract.

Martin Straka has officially signed a one year deal with HC Lasselsberger Plzen in the Czech Republic. Straka will also be be manager-general (general manager?) of the team. Source

The New York Rangers have signed defenseman Vladimir Denisov.

The Washington Capitals have re-signed forward Eric Fehr.

The Chicago Blackhawks have signed defenseman Aaron Johnson to a one-year contract.

The New Jersey Devils have signed goalie Scott Clemmensen to a one-year deal.

Wednesday, July 09, 2008

NHL and hockey rumors for July 10, 2008

There will be a European rumor report later today. Stay tuned.

The Atlanta Thrashers have re-signed left wing Eric Boulton to a multi-year contract. The Thrashers also signed right wings Junior Lessard and Mike Hoffman and center Grant Stevenson to contracts.

The Nashville Predators have signed forward Josh Gratton to a two-year contract.

The New York Islanders have signed defenseman Joe Callahan to a one-year contract.

The St. Louis Blues have signed forwards Matt Foy and Steve Regier to contracts.

The Pittsburgh Penguins signed defenseman T.J. Kemp and left wing Adam Henrich to one-year contracts. They also agreed on terms with Connor James and Joey Mormina.

The San Jose Sharks have re-signed forward Marcel Goc.

NHL free agent signings for July 9, 2008

Former Ottawa Senators goalie Ray Emery has signed a one-year deal with Atlant Mytishchi of the new Russian Continental Hockey League. The deal is reportedly worth in excess of $2 million plus bonuses. Brochu's take: This was pretty obvious as none of the teams looking for goaltending even went near the guy. Maybe he can get his act together and come back to the NHL in 2009-2010.

The Washington Capitals have re-signed forward Sergei Fedorov to a one-year, $4 million contract.

The Caps also signed forward Brooks Laich to a three-year, $6.2 million contract extension.

The Montreal Canadiens have re-signed defenseman Josh Gorges to a three-year contract.

The San Jose Sharks have re-signed defenseman Christian Ehrhoff to a three-year, $9.3 million contract extension.

The Columbus Blue Jackets have signed centre Michael Peca to a one-year, $1.315 million contract. The BJs also signed defenseman Andrey Plekhanov to a two-year contract and defenseman Clay Wilson and left wing John Vigilante to one-year contracts.

The Carolina Hurricanes have re-signed forward Chad LaRose to a one-year, $875,000 contract extension.

The Edmonton Oilers have re-signed forward Jean-Francois Jacques to a two-year contract.

Tuesday, July 08, 2008

Another offer sheet matched, more signings

The St. Louis Blues signed restricted free agent forward Steve Bernier to a one-year, $2.5 million offer sheet. The Vancouver Canucks have subsequently matched the offer sheet. Brochu's take: This is nothing but pure vindictiveness on the Blues part. They knew the Canucks would match. What is the point of these two offer sheets?

The Blues also signed defenseman Mike Weaver to a contract.

According to a Slovakian publication, the Vancouver Canucks have signed Pavol Demitra to a three-year, $12 million contract. However, in an interview with Team 1040 radio, he revealed nothing is for certain, but Vancouver is his no. 1 choice. Brochu's take: It looks like the most known Canucks rumor is about to come true. Source

The Ottawa Senators have signed defenseman Jason Smith to a two-year, $5.2 million contract.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have named Joe Nieuwendyk has a special assistant to the GM.

The Montreal Canadiens have re-signed goalie Jaroslav Halak to a two-year, $1.55 million contract extension.

The Edmonton Oilers have signed forward Marc-Antoine Pouliot to a two-year contract.

The New York Islanders have signed defenceman Brendan Witt to a two-year, $6 million contract extension.

The Tampa Bay Lightning have signed forward Brandon Bochenski to a two-year contract.

The Lightning also signed forward Evgeny Artyukhin to a two-year, $1.9 million contract. Artyukhin played for CSKA Moskva (Moscow) in the 2007-2008 season.

The Bolts also signed defenseman Andrew Hutchinson to a two-year contract.

Kyle Wanvig has left the Tampa Bay Lightning organization and signed with Amur Tigers Khabarovsk in Russia.

NHL and hockey rumors for July 8, 2008

The Calgary Herald is reporting that Flames GM Darryl Sutter has a couple of moves planned, and one could be acquiring Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Bryan McCabe. Writer Bruce Dowbiggin also speculates that the Flames could go after New Jersey Devils forward Brian Gionta. Brochu's take: A strange rumor, as the Flames are very near the cap, and why would they need another huge contract? As for Gionta, they are looking for wingers to play in the top 6. Source

The Ottawa Senators have signed forward Greg Mauldin to a two-year contract.

The Carolina Hurricanes have signed defenseman Dennis Seidenberg to a one-year, $1.2 million contract.

Brochu's European rumor roundup:

The Minnesota Wild have signed defenseman Tomas Mojzis to a multi-year contract. Mojzis spent the past two seasons in Russia.

Forward Ivan Khomutov has left the New Jersey Devils organization and has signed with CSKA Moskva (Moscow) for the 2008-2009 season. Source

There are rumors that Columbus Blue Jackets forward Joakim Lindstrom could be returning to play in Sweden.

There are also rumors that New Jersey Devils forward Sergei Brylin could be signing with Lokomotiv Yaroslavl if he gets no offers from NHL teams.

Swedish reports are saying that the Nashville Predators are close to signing forward Linus Videll.

Monday, July 07, 2008

NHL free agent signings for July 7, 2008

The Toronto Maple Leafs have re-signed Matt Stajan to a two-year, $3.5 million contract extension.

The Columbus Blue Jackets have signed restricted free agent forward R.J. Umberger to a four-year, $15 million contract.

The BJ's have also agreed to terms with centre Michael Peca.

The Calgary Flames have signed forward Todd Bertuzzi to a one-year, $1.95 million contract. Brochu's take: Keenan strikes again. Time to bring Brian Noonan to Cowtown.

The Tampa Bay Lightning have signed forward Mark Recchi to a one-year, $1.25 million contract. Brochu's take: The Lightning continue to try to sign every single free agent forward on the market. Do they know that they have to play with six or seven defenseman on an NHL team?

The Anaheim Ducks have signed Brendan Morrison to a one or two year deal.

The Ducks also signed goalie David LeNeveu to a one-year contract.

The Philadelphia Flyers signed GM Paul Holmgren to a three-year contract extension and signed right Arron Asham to a multi-year contract.

The Pittsburgh Penguins have signed defenseman Ben Lovejoy to a contract. Brochu's take: I'm sure his nickname will be "Reverend".

The Ottawa Senators have signed left wing Ryan Flinn to a two-year contract.

Sunday, July 06, 2008

NHL and hockey rumors for July 7, 2008

According to the Columbus Dispatch, the Blue Jackets are close to re-signing forward Michael Peca.

The Toronto Sun is reporting that the Maple Leafs are close to re-signing restricted free agent Matt Stajan to a multi-year deal, worth around $1.8 million a year.

The Minnesota Wild have signed forward Owen Nolan to a two-year, $2.4 million contract. The Wild also signed goaltender Barry Brust to a multi-year contract, and forward Jesse Schultz to a one-year contract.

Brochu's European rumor roundup:

Russian forward Igor Grigorenko has left RSL team Salavat Yulaev, citing a lack of ice time as the reason. Brochu's take: An NHL team might give him a chance, as he once a top prospect in the Detroit Red Wings farm system. Source

There are rumors that Ottawa Senators forward Randy Robitaille could be joing HC Lugano of the Swiss Nationalliga A. Source

Poll Results:

Do you think an NHL team will sign Ray Emery?

Yes
69 (61%)
No
43 (38%)

Total Votes: 112

Thanks for participating in the polls! You can also leave comments in the posts if you want to continue the discussion.

NHL and hockey rumors for July 6, 2008

According to the Ottawa Sun, the Senators could be close to acquiring San Jose Sharks defenseman Kyle McLaren or Anaheim Ducks defenseman Mathieu Schneider. Brochu's take: This is a Bruce Garrioch rumor, so take it with a bag of salt.

The star 940 radio is reporting that the Chicago Blackhawks are trying to move forward Martin Havlat. Teams rumored to be interested are the Vancouver Canucks, Pittsburgh Penguins, Buffalo Sabres and Atlanta Thrashers, as well as the Edmonton Oilers and Montreal Canadiens. Brochu's take: The Hawks have to get rid of some salary soon, and Havlat has only one year left on his contract. This could be a salary dump type of trade.

In an interview with Global TV in Vancouver, Canucks GM Mike Gillis revealed he has had more discussions with Brendan Morrison, and it's still possible a deal could be made to keep the UFA forward in Vancouver.

The Pittsburgh Penguins have signed Matt Cooke to a two-year, $2.4 million contract.

Sources tell TSN that former Maple Leaf Joe Nieuwendyk is scheduled to meet with Toronto general manager Cliff Fletcher this week to discuss joining the team's management group. Nieuwendyk's contract as advisor to Florida Panthers GM Jacques Martin expired June 30.

Saturday, July 05, 2008

NHL and hockey rumors for July 5, 2008

According to TBO.com, The Tampa Bay Lightning may have one or two more moves in the near future, and it could happen sometime this weekend. Writer Erik Erlendsson speculates that the Lightning could be signing defenseman Jason Smith, and forwards Jussi Jokinen and Michel Ouellet could be on the block. Brochu's take: Rumors are that the Canucks, Oilers and Leafs are interested in the forwards. Source

The Vancouver Province is reporting that UFA forward Brendan Morrison has rejected the Canucks offer of a one-year, $1.9 million contract and will sign with another team next week. Morrison is currently fielding offers from up to 9 teams. The Minnesota Wild may be the frontrunners to land the centre. Source

The Lightning have also signed forward Zenon Konopka to a two-year contract.

Brochu's European rumor roundup:

The New Jersey Devils have signed forward Fedor Fedorov to a contract. Fedorov spent last season playing with Dynamo Moskva (Moscow).

The Pittsburgh Penguins have signed forward Janne Pesonen to a contract. Pesonen played for Karpat in 2007-2008. Source

The Atlanta Thrashers are rumored to be close to signing defenseman Ilya Nikulin from Ak Bars Kazan.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have officially signed defenseman Jonas Frogren to a contract.

Friday, July 04, 2008

Sharks, Sabres, Lightning, Canucks make trades

The Tampa Bay Lightning have traded defensemen Dan Boyle and Brad Lukowich to the San Jose Sharks for defensemen Matt Carle, Ty Wishart and first round selection in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft and a fourth round selection in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. Boyle waived his no trade clause after deciding on which deal would be best for him. Brochu's take: The Sharks gave up a lot of good young talent to get Boyle. Also, this should quiet nay-sayers about players never waiving their no trade clauses.

The Sharks also sent defenseman Craig Rivet and a seventh-round selection in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft to the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for second-round selections in the 2009 and 2010 drafts.

The Vancouver Canucks acquired forward Steve Bernier from the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for a second round draft pick in 2010 and a third round pick in 2009.

Jaromir Jagr has officially signed with Avangard Omsk of the KHL for $5 million a year contract, believed to be a two-year deal with an option year.

The New York Rangers have re-signed defenseman Paul Mara to a one-year, $1.95 million contract.

The Canucks have also signed forward Mark Cullen to a contract. Terms were not disclosed.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have signed forward Mikhail Grabovski to a one-year deal.

European free agent rumor update for July 4, 2008

This is the big version of Brochu's European rumor roundup, a regular feature on this blog.

The Toronto Maple Leafs are close to signing Swedish defenseman Jonas Frogren. Frogren plays with Farjestads BK, and also played for Sweden at the IIHF world championship in Quebec and Halifax this past spring. Source

New York Islanders forward Josef Vasicek has signed with Lokomotiv Yaroslavl of the Russian Super League (KHL). Source

The Colorado Avalanche have signed defenseman Daniel Tjarnqvist. Tjarnqvist spent last season with Lokomotiv Yaroslavl.

Nashville Predators forward Matt Ellison has signed with Dinamo Riga in Latvia.

Phoenix Coyotes forward Marcel Hossa has also signed with Dinamo Riga. Source

Philadelphia Flyers forward Stefan Ruzicka has signed a contract with Spartak Moskva (Moscow) of the KHL.

The Carolina Hurricanes have signed forward Dwight Helminen to a one-year, two-way contract. Helminen spent last season with JYP in the SM-Liiga.

There are also rumors that San Jose Sharks defenseman Sandis Ozolinsh could be signing with Dinamo Riga as well. Source

Thursday, July 03, 2008

More July 3rd NHL signings, part 2

The New York Islanders have signed center Mike Iggulden and defenseman Brett Skinner to one-year contracts. They also signed Chris Lee, forwards Kurtis McLean and Mitch Fritz and goaltender Peter Mannino.

The Phoenix Coyotes have re-signed restricted free agent Brian McGrattan to a one-year deal. The desert dogs have also signed Francis Lessard to a contract.

The Chicago Blackhawks have signed Matt Walker to a one-year deal.

The Toronto Maple Lefas have re-signed center Dominic Moore to a one-year contract They also signed center John Mitchell to a two-year contract and signed right wing Greg Scott to a three-year, entry-level contract.

The Edmonton Oilers have signed defenseman Taylor Chorney to a three-year, entry-level contract.

The Colorado Avalanche have signed forward Chris Durno to a one-year deal.

More July 3rd NHL signings

There will be a rumor report later tonight/early tomorrow with a heavy European focus. Stay tuned!

The Washington Capitals have signed forward Keith Aucoin to a two-year contract.

The Phoenix Coyotes have signed defencemen David Hale to a two-year, $1.4 million contract. The Yotes also re-signed defenseman Matt Jones to a two-year deal.

The St. Louis Blues have re-signed center Yan Stastny to a two-year deal.

The Minnesota Wild have signed forward Antti Miettinen to a three-year, $7 million contract.

The Dallas Stars have signed right wing Landon Wilson to a one-year contract; signed defensemen Maxime Fortunus and Garrett Stafford and left wing Francis Wathier to two-year contracts.

The Tampa Bay Lightning have signed forward Wyatt Smith to a one-year deal. They have also signed defenseman Scott Jackson to a three-year, entry-level contract.

The Montreal Canadiens have signed defensemen Alex Henry to a one year contract. They also signed goaltender Cedrick Desjardins to a two year contract.

Naslund, Satan sign, Habs/Leafs trade?

The Montreal Canadiens have traded forward Mikhail Grabovski to the Toronto Maple Leafs in exchange for the rights to Greg Pateryn and a second-round draft pick in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. Brochu's take: How many times have you seen a Leafs-Habs trade?

The Habs also signed tough guy Georges Laraque to a three-year, $4.5 million contract. They also signed goalie Marc Denis to a one-year, two-way contract.

The New York Rangers have signed forward Markus Naslund to a two-year, $8 million contract. Brochu's take: There were rumors that the Canucks didn't even speak to Naslund during free agency.

The Rangers also signed defenseman Dmitri Kalinin to a one-year deal.

The Pittsburgh Penguins have re-signed goalie Marc-Andre Fleury to a seven-year, $35 million contract extension, with a no move and limited no trade clause.

The Pens also signed forward Miroslav Satan to a one-year, $3.5 million contract. They also signed Ruslan Fedotenko to a $2.5 million contract.

The San Jose Sharks have signed defenseman Rob Blake to a one-year, $5 million contract.

The Florida Panthers have signed defenseman Rory Fitzpatrick to a two-year deal. The club also agreed to terms on two-year contracts with goaltender Chris Beckford-Tseu and forward Steve MacIntyre. They also signed defenseman James DeLory to a three-year, entry level contract.

NHL and hockey rumors for July 3, 2008

TSN is reporting that the Tampa Bay Lightning have asked Dan Boyle to waive his no trade clause. It's believed the Lightning have been talking to several teams about dealing Boyle, and one of them are the Ottawa Senators.

Sportsnet is also reporting that the Lightning are shopping goalie Mike Smith.

The Ottawa Sun is reporting that several teams, including the Senators and Oilers, are interested in acquiring free agent Miroslav Satan.

There are rumors that the Minnesota Wild have made an offer to Markus Naslund.

There's speculation that the Nashville Predators are interested in signing Georges Laraque.

Mats Sundin gave a statement on Wednesday indicating that he is flattered with all the interest, but doesn't know if he wants to play next season. Brochu's take: If this isn't a rejection of the Canucks 2-year, $20 million offer, I don't know what is.

The Phoenix Coyotes have re-signed goaltender Al Montoya and left wing David Spina, signed defenseman Drew Fata and right wing Derek Nesbitt to contracts. The Yotes have also signed 2008 NHL Entry draft picks Mikkel Boedker and Viktor Tikhonov to three-year, entry-level contracts.

Wednesday, July 02, 2008

More July 2nd NHL signings

Look for my rumor report to be posted later tonight or early morning.

The Atlanta Thrashers have signed defenseman Ron Hainsey to a five-years, $22.5 million contract.

The Ottawa Senators have signed forward Jarkko Ruutu to a three-year, $3.9 million contract.

The Sens also re-signed forward Shean Donovan to a two-year contract worth $1.25 million.

The New York Islanders have signed Doug Weight to a one-year, $1.75 million contract, with performance bonuses that could earn him up to $4 million.

The Isles have also signed goalie Yann Danis to a one-year contract.

The Colorado Avalanche re-signed forward Wojtek Wolski to a two-year contract extension.

The Calgary Flames have signed forward Curtis Glencross to a three-year, $3.2 million contract. The Flames also re-signed defenseman Jim Vandermeer to a three-year, $6.9 million contract. The Flames also signed Pete Vandermeer to a contract.

The Anaheim Ducks have signed defenseman Stu Bickel to a three-year, entry-level contract.

The Washinton Capitals have signed right wing Graham Mink and defenseman Tyler Sloan.

The Philadelphia Flyers have signed left wing Sean Curry to a two-year contract.

Columbus signs Huselius, other signings

The Columbus Blue Jackets have signed forward Kristian Huselius to a four-year, $19 million contract. Brochu's take: A somewhat decent deal, as Huselius was amongst the better wingers left in the free agency market.

The Vancouver Canucks have signed defenseman Nolan Baumgartner to a one-year, two-way contract. The Canucks have also signed forward Alexander Bolduc and re-signed goalie Curtis Sanford.

The Calgary Flames have re-signed left wing Brandon Prust and right wing David Van Der Gulik, and also signed defensemen Mark Giordano and Ryan Wilson.

The Philadelphia Flyers have signed defenseman Randy Jones to a two-year contract and forward Riley Cote to a three-year deal.

The Carolina Hurricanes have signed left wing Ryan Bayda and defensemen Wade Brookbank on one-year contracts and defenseman Tim Conboy on a two-year contract.

The Minnesota Wild have re-signed defenseman Kurtis Foster to a one-year deal.

Zherdev to NY, Hossa, Malkin, Avery signed

The Columbus Blue Jackets have traded Nikolai Zherdev and Dan Fritsche to the New York Rangers for Fedor Tyutin and Christian Backman. Brochu's take: Zherdev and Fritsche had been on the block for some time, and rumors of a Columbus/NY trade have been percolating for a year now.

The Detroit Red Wings have signed Marian Hossa to a one-year, $7.45 million contract. Brochu's take: The NHLPA is not going to like this one, but Hossa wants to win the cup. So get ready for the Hossa sweepstakes in 2009.

The Pittsburgh Penguins have officially signed Evgeni Malkin to a five-year deal worth $8.7 million a year.

The Pens have also signed defenseman Brooks Orpik to a six-year, $22.5 million contract extension.

The Dallas Stars have signed forward Sean Avery to a four-year, $15.5 million contract, with a limited no-movement clause.

The Stars also signed restricted free agent forward B.J. Crombeen to a one-year deal.

The Carolina Hurricanes have signed restricted free agent defenceman Joni Pitkanen to a three-year contract worth $12 million.

The 'Canes have also signed defenceman Josef Melichar to a one-year contract worth $1 million.

The Tampa Bay Lightning have re-signed defenceman Janne Niskala to a one-year deal.

The Bolts have also re-signed forward Ryan Craig to a two-year contract worth $1.575-million.

Tuesday, July 01, 2008

More free agent signings from July 1

The St. Louis Blues have matched the 3-year, $7.5 million offer sheet give to David Backes by the Vancouver Canucks. Brochu's take: Well, that didn't take long. It was pretty obvious that it would be matched. Rumors were that GM Mike Gillis tried to get Backes via trade but was rejected.

The Canucks have signed forward Darcy Hordichuk to a three-year deal. Terms were not disclosed.

The Canucks also signed forward Ryan Johnson to a two-year, $2.4 million contract.

The New Jersey Devils have signed Brian Rolston to a four-year, $20.25 million contract.

The Devils have also signed Bobby Holik to a one-year contract worth $2.5 million.

The Nashville Predators have signed goalie Drew MacIntyre to a one-year deal.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have signed forward Niklas Hagman to a four-year contract worth $12 million. Brochu's take: Maybe the Leafs ARE capable of making a decent signing.

The Minnesota Wild have signed forward Craig Weller to a two-year contract worth $600,000 a season.

The Boston Bruins have signed forward Michael Ryder to a 3-year, $12 million contract. Brochu's take: Will the Bruins actually play him?

The Columbus Blue Jackets have sigend defenceman Mike Commodore to a 5 year, $18.75 million contract.

Campbell, Redden, Streit, Rozsival signed

The Chicago Blackhawks have signed defenceman Brian Campbell to an 8-year, $56.8 million contract. Brochu's take: The fact that Brian Campbell will make more money than Scott Niedermayer or Chris Pronger makes me sick in the stomach.

The New York Rangers have signed defenceman Wade Redden to a six-year, $39 million contract. Brochu's take: No wonder he went to the open market. Redden did not play well enough last season to garner this type of salary. But this is the "silly" season for a reason.

The Rangers also re-signed defenseman Michal Rozsival to a four-year, $20 million contract.

The Rangers also re-signed goalie Steve Valiquette. Terms were not disclosed.

The Rangers also signed forward Patrick Rissmiller to an undisclosed deal.

The New York Islanders have signed defenceman Mark Streit to a five-year, $20.5 million contract.

The Tampa Bay Lighting have signed goaltender Olaf Kolzig to a one-year, $1.5 million contract.

The Lightning have also signed forward David Koci to a one-year, two-way deal worth $525,000 in the NHL, $100,000 in the minors.

The Philadelphia Flyers have signed forward Nate Raduns to a one-year contract and forward Glen Metropolit to a two-year deal.

The Flyers also signed defenceman Ossi Vaananen to a one-year, $1 million contract.

The Buffalo Sabres have signed goaltender Patrick Lalime to a two-year, $2 million contract.

The Ottawa Senators have signed goaltender Alex Auld to a two-year, $2 million contract.

Fletcher got Finger-ed, Canucks send offer sheet to Backes

The Vancouver Canucks have signed restricted free agent forward David Backes to an offer sheet, 3 years $7.5-million. The St. Louis Blues has seven days to match or accept a 2nd round draft pick as compensation. Brochu's take: Backes is a good young player with size and skill. However, I expect the Blues to match the offer very soon.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have signed defenseman Jeff Finger to a four-year, $14 million contract. Brochu's take: ...and the award for the dumbest free agent signing of the summer goes to GM Cliff Fletcher. Did he forget to take his medication this morning?

The Pittsburgh Penguins have signed Eric Godard to a three-year deal. Terms were not disclosed.

The Tampa Bay Penguins....Lightning have signed forward Adam Hall to a three-year, $1.8 million contract. Brochu's take: The Lightning are building a nice stable of ex-Pens in Tampa.

The New York Rangers have signed forward Aaron Voros to a contract.

The Florida Panthers have signed forward Cory Stillman to a three-year, $10.6 million contract. Brochu's take: Stillman has to be on the criminally underpaid list of NHL players.

The Chicago Blackhawks have signed goalie Cristobal Huet to a four-year deal worth $5.6 million a year.

The Colorado Avalanche have signed forward Darcy Tucker to a two-year, $4.5 million contract. Brochu's take: This would make two player that Avs have signed that were recipients of a buyout. And they also signed Tucker's ex-Leafs teammate Raycroft as well.

Canucks offer Sundin 2 year, $20 million

TSN is reporting that up to four teams have made offers to Mats Sundin, including the Vancouver Canucks who have made a two-year, $20 million contract with a no trade clause. Brochu's take: Fans in Vancouver must be screaming for the return of Dave "Sensible" Nonis. Source

According to the Fan 590 radio station, the Pittsburgh Penguins have made an approach to Jaromir Jagr.

The Columbus Dispatch blog "Puck-rakers" is reporting the the Blue Jackets have made offers to Wade Redden and Kristian Huselius, and are waiting for a response.

The Montreal Canadiens have signed restricted free agent Andrei Kostitsyn to a three-year, $9.75 million contract extension.

The Detroit Red Wings have signed goalie Ty Conklin to a one year, $750,000 contract.

The Colorado Avalanche have signed goaile Andrew Raycroft to a one year deal. Terms were not disclosed.

The Washington Capitals have signed goalie Jose Theodore to a two-year, $9 million contract.

The Phoenix Coyotes have signed defenseman Kurt Sauer to a four-year, $7 million contract. The 'Yotes also signed forward Todd Fedoruk to a three-year deal. Terms were not disclosed.

The Pittsburgh Penguins re-sign defenseman Mark Eaton to a two-year, $2 million contract.

Zidlicky traded to Wild, more rumors

The Nashville Predators have traded defenseman Marek Zidlicky to the Minnesota Wild for Ryan Jones and a second round pick in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. Brochu's take: A bit of a salary dump, and I wonder how much new Wild owner (ex-Preds owner) Craig Leipold has to do with this trade.

The Philadelphia Flyers have traded defenseman Denis Gauthier and a second round pick in the 2010 draft to the Los Angeles Kings for Patrik Hersley and Ned Lukacevic. Brochu's take: I guess the Flyers didn't have to buyout Gauthier's contract. Source

The Minnesota Wild have signed forward Andrew Brunette. Terms were not disclosed as of this post.

The Boston Bruins have signed UFA forward Blake Wheeler to an entry-level contract.

The Vancouver Canucks have signed forward Kyle Wellwood to a one-year, $997,500 contract. The Canucks are also rumored to be in pursuit of forward Niklas Hagman.

There are rumors that the Boston Bruins have made a 12-year, $100 million contract offer to Marian Hossa.

There are also rumors that Olaf Kolzig could be signing with the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Lightning sign Vrbata, Leafs sign Joseph

The Tampa Bay Lightning have signed forward Radim Vrbata to a three-year, $9 million contract. Brochu's take: The Lightning are amassing an impressive group of forwards. But what about their defensive core? There are also question marks in goaltending.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have signed goalie Curtis Joseph to a one-year, $800,000 contract.

Pitkanen traded for Cole, more signings

The Edmonton Oilers have traded restricted free agent Joni Pitkanen to the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for forward Erik Cole. Brochu's take: This is one of those rare trades that have been rumored for quite some time and has actually taken place. Pitkanen gets a third chance to prove himself while Cole should take Torres' place on the top six of the Oilers' forwards.

The Chicago Blackhawks have traded restricted free agent forward Rene Bourque to the Calgary Flames in exchange for a future second round pick.

The Anaheim Ducks have officially re-signed restricted free agent forward Corey Perry to a 5 year, $26.625 million contract extension.

The Carolina Hurricanes have signed defenseman Anton Babchuk to a one-year, $1 million contract. Babchuk spent the 2007-2008 season playing with Avangard Omsk of the RSL. Source

Torres traded for Brule, other signings

Brochu is Hockey will be live blogging every signing and trade for the next few hours, so keep refreshing!

The Edmonton Oilers have traded Raffi Torres to the Columbus Blue Jackets for Gilbert Brule. Brochu's take: GM Kevin Lowe has once again shown how savvy he can be. Brule is a cheaper, younger version of Torres with more upside. Source

According to TSN, the Washington Capitals have re-signed restricted free agent defenseman Mike Green to a four-year, $21 million contract extension.

The New Jersey Devils and defenceman Bryce Salvador have agreed to terms on a four-year deal worth an average of $2.9 million per season. The Devils have also re-signed forward Jay Pandolfo and declined an option on forward Sergei Brylin, according to the Bergen Record. The team also re-signed David Clarkson and Barry Tallackson, plus recent draftees Matt Halischuk and Vladimir Zharkov.

TSN is reporting that the Pittsburgh Penguins are close to a 5 year contract extension with Evgeni Malkin worth around $8.7 million a year.

The Detroit Red Wings have re-signed defenseman Brad Stuart to a four-year, $15 million contract extension.

The Pittsburgh Penguins have re-signed forward Pascal Dupuis to a three-year, $4.2 million contract extension.

The lull before the storm

One quick rumor update before today's NHL free agent frenzy begins:

According to Sportsnet, the Tampa Bay Lightning have an offer on the table to Brian Rolston, but Rolston and his agent wants to wait for other offers before accepting or rejecting it. The deal is rumored to be around the same term and a little bit less than what Ryan Malone signed. (7 year, ~$29 million)

TSN is reporting that the Anaheim Ducks and forward Corey Perry are close to a new deal; a contract similiar to similar to the one that Ryan Getzlaf signed last season worth approximately $5.325 million per season. Brochu's take: This should put all the "offer sheet" rumors to rest.

Impending free agent Brian Campbell could be signing with the Atlanta Thrashers, who are rumored to be offering more money than most teams. The Ottawa Senators are in heavy pursuit of the rearguard as well.

The Edmonton Oilers could be offering a huge contract worth $9 million a year to Marian Hossa. The Vancouver Canucks are also interested in signing the winger. Brochu's take: If some team is stupid enough to give Hossa $9 million per, the NHL should implement some kind of rule to stop this silliness. Source

The Detroit Red Wings have signed Peter Worrell...err...Andreas Lilja to a two-year, $2.5 million contract extension.

The New York Rangers have signed goalie Matt Zaba to a contract extension.

The Ottawa Senators have signed forward Jeremy Yablonski to a two-year entry level contract.

The Boston Bruins have re-signed forward Petteri Nokelainen to a two-year, $1.7 million contract extension.