Monday, January 12, 2009

NHL and Hockey Rumors for Jan 13, 2009

Speculation around the NHL and hockey world is growing about the possibility of the Tampa Bay Lightning trading forward Vincent Lecavalier. Bob McKenzie notes that it's up to Lecavalier if he wants to stay in Tampa, or be traded. His no trade clause does not kick in until July 1st. McKenzie also noted that the the proposed deal with the Montreal Canadiens includes Tomas Plekanec, Chris Higgins, Josh Gorges, prospect P.K. Subban and a package of draft picks (including a first rounder ). Source

La Presse is also reporting that the Los Angeles Kings, Edmonton Oilers and New York Rangers could be interested. Brochu's take: Forget the Rangers, their lack of salary cap space is what prevented Mats Sundin from signing there. The Kings and Oilers have the cap room, but do they have the assets? Rumours are that any package from the Oilers would have to include forwards Shawn Horcoff and Rob Schremp. The Lightning would also like Alexander Frolov from LA. Source

ESPN's Scott Burnside reports the Phoenix Coyotes were penalized 25% of their portion of the revenue-sharing pot last season. Teams can only collect their share of the revenue-sharing money if they attain certain revenue and attendance targets. Also, the Coyotes last week laid off 18 staff members, approximately 10% of their staff. Rumors of contraction have spread through the league as well. Brochu's take: The CBC Hotstove panel were discussing the possibility ( and implementation) of the dispersal draft already! Before we talk about the "c" word, I believe the league and NHL will do everything possible to relocate the franchise first.

The Florida Panthers have placed defenseman Cory Murphy on waivers.

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