NHL and Hockey Rumors for March 6, 2013

The Toronto Maple Leafs have re-signed defenseman Korbinian Holzer to a two-year contract extension.

The Nashville Predators have claimed forward Zach Boychuk off waivers from the the Pittsburgh Penguins.

The Penguins have placed forward Tom Kostopoulos on waivers.

The Washington Capitals have placed defenseman Roman Hamrlik on waivers.

The St. Louis Blues have signed forward Yannick Veilleux to a three-year, entry level contract.  Veilleux was the Blues' 4th round pick, 102nd overall in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft.

The Anaheim Ducks have signed free agent defenseman Kevin Gagne to a contract.

According to sources, the Chicago Blackhawks are interested in Edmonton Oilers forward Eric Belanger.  It's believed the 'Hawks have asked NHL teams about acquiring a veteran forward for their bottom 6 forward group.  Brochu's take:  The Blackhawks are the NHL's current best team, and Belanger could be the last piece of the puzzle.  He could be had for a mid round pick.

Hockey and NHL Rumors for Sept 15, 2010

The Anaheim Ducks have re-signed restricted free agent forward Bobby Ryan to a 5-year, $25.5 million contract extension.  Brochu's take:  Good deal for both sides. Ryan has 40 goal potential, and now the Ducks have the core signed for at least the next 3 years.

The Phoenix Coyotes have signed forward Eric Belanger to a one-year, $750,000 contract.  Brochu's take:  An absolute bargain.  There were rumors that had signed with the Capitals, but that was unfounded.

The Boston Bruins have invited forward Brian McGrattan to training camp.

There's a rumor that the Anaheim Ducks have signed defenseman Paul Mara to a one-year deal.

Brochu's European rumor roundup:

Free agent defenseman Tom Preissing has left the NHL and signed with Karpat in the Finnish league.  Source