NHL and Hockey Rumors for Jan 30, 2009

The New York Rangers have traded forward Dan Fritsche to the Minnesota Wild in exchange for defenseman Erik Reitz. Frtische cleared waivers on Wednesday.

The Anaheim Ducks have re-signed forward George Parros to a three-year contract extension. The deal is believed to be worth $875,000 annually. Brochu's take: It was supposed to be a two-year contract, but his moustache got an extra year.

According to USA Today hockey writer Kevin Allen, there are many players believed to be available before the March 4 trade deadline. Among the most talked about are Ottawa Senators forward Dean McAmmond, Los Angeles Kings defenseman Sean O'Donnell, Nashville Predators defenseman Greg De Vries and forward Radek Bonk. Allen also believes it's possible that the Anaheim Ducks could shop one of their impending UFAs, a group which includes Brendan Morrison, Steve Montador, Todd Marchant, Sami Pahlsson, Travis Moen, and both Niedermayer brothers. Brochu's take: Allen lists others, but they have been all reported earlier in rumors. I don't think the Ducks will shop anyone yet, as they are fighting for a playoff spot. Source

The Chicago Blackhawks are considering re-signing forward Martin Havlat. Havlat is in the last year of his $6 million a year deal. Brochu's take: Rumours of the Hawks wanting to trade Havlat have really died down. His strong play and injury-free status this year should get him a good contract in the offseason. Source

Prucha for Malholtra?

The New York Rangers continue to scout the Columbus Blue Jackets closely, as another scout was at Sunday's game. The Puck-rakers blog adds that the Rangers have dispatched scout Gilles Leger to some Blue Jackets’ games. Word is that the Rangers like Manny Malholtra. The Blue Jackets have been interested in Petr Prucha for a few years. Could a swap be imminent? Source

Larry Brooks of the New York Post is reporting that Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Brooks Orpik could be available. Orpik was recently scratched for two games by coach Michel Therrien. Brooks claims there are players on the Pens that have ill feelings towards Therrien. Jarkko Ruutu and Gary Roberts have reportedly asked for trades. Source

On CBC's Hockey Night in Canada broadcast on Saturday night, Al Strachan mentioned that the Vancouver Canucks could be interested in three players on the Nashville Predators. Strachan, on the intermission program "Hotstove", reported that the Canucks should be looking at centres David Legwand, Jason Arnott and Radek Bonk. Legwand recently signed a long term extension with the Predators.