NHL and hockey rumors for Sept 30, 2008

The Tampa Bay Lightning have traded forward Nick Tarnasky to the Nashville Predators for a conditional pick in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. Tampa Bay will receive a sixth-round pick that would turn into a fifth if Tarnasky plays at least 50 games.

The Chicago Blackhawks have placed goaltender Nikolai Khabibulin on waivers. There's speculation that he may also be traded if he clears. Khabibulin has a cap hit of $6.75 million cap hit this season. There's also an interesting rumor that he could be headed to Russia to play in the KHL. Brochu's take: Odds are that he won't be claimed. It would seem to be the trend for players with high contracts don't get picked up.

The New York Islanders have claimed defenseman Thomas Pock off waivers from the New York Rangers.

The San Jose Sharks signed defenseman Jason Demers to a three-year contract.

There was a rumor this morning about billionaire Jim Balsille was "close" to a deal to buy the Predators. However, it was refuted by both sides, and the matter appears to be dead. Brochu's take: Read the article, and could someone explain what"scintilla" means?? Source