Peca to Blue Jackets?

According to the Columbus Dispatch, Michael Peca may sign with the Blue Jackets. It's believed that GM Scott Howson wants to use the money freed from the Svitov contract on an offer to Peca. The Rangers are still negotiating with him, and the Maple Leafs are still interested. Also, the article mentions that the Jackets may go after Jason Allison, Mike Johnson and Danny Markov. Source

According to the Boston Globe, Nikita Alexeev may be signing in Russia. Alexeev played for the Chicago Blackhawks last season. Source

The same Globe article mentions that GM Bob Gainey "inquired about Bergeron's availability approximately a month before the 2007 trade deadline." GM Peter Chiarelli said he wasn't interested at the time. Source

RDS has reported that the Philadelphia Flyers have invited Patrick Lebeau to their training camp. The 37 year old last played in the NHL for the Penguins, and has spent the last five years playing for the Frankfurt Lions in the DEL. Source

Selanne update

According to the official Ducks website, the Finnish interview reported yesterday was not true. Selanne has not talked to anybody about retiring and is looking forward to returning to the United States to decide his future. Source

With Alexander Svitov abandoning the Blue Jackets to sign with Avangard Omsk, could the Jackets be looking for help in their forwards? GM Scott Howson may be looking for help via the UFA route, as there are still some forwards such as Eric Lindros and Jason Allison still available.

There's a rumour that Trevor Linden has signed a one year, $750,000 deal with the Vancouver Canucks and will be announced officially on Monday.

Staios to be traded?

According to the Metro News, Steve Staios could be traded for an established scorer. It's believed that Edmonton would package Staios and a prospect to get some scoring help. Rumours have swirled that it could be Glen Murray or Miroslav Satan, who is due to become an UFA next offseason. Source

Another Forsberg rumour has popped up in New York. According to Newsday, the Islanders have been pursuing Peter Forsberg. They have also inquired about the services of Josef Vasicek and Jason Allison. It's believed that GM Garth Snow and owner Charles Wang would offer a substantial contract to Forsberg, possibly in the $7-7.5 million range to entice him to the Island. Source

Mike Ricci has officially retired after 16 years in the NHL. Source