NHL and hockey rumors for Oct 9, 2008

According to Marty York of Metro News, the Minnesota Wild have reached an "impasse" in contract negotiations with forward Marian Gaborik, and are entertaining offers for the Slovakian star. The Vancouver Canucks, Ottawa Senators, Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens, Pittsburgh Penguins, New York Rangers and Los Angeles Kings are reportedly interested. Brochu's take: Gaborik won't be traded yet, and only if the Wild are out of the running for the playoffs by trade deadline day. Source

Vancouver Canucks defenseman Lawrence Nycholat is rumoured to be headed to the Pittsburgh Penguins or St. Louis Blues once he comes off the injured reserve. Source

Rumors are swirling that the Rangers are close to re-signing forward Brendan Shanahan to a contract. However, the Rangers still have to cut some salary from their cap to fit him in.

The Penguins have placed forward Jeff Taffe on waivers. Forward Kris Beech has been placed on unconditional waivers and is trying to find a job in Europe. Rumors are that he may be close to a deal with Swedish team HV71.