Jagr to retire?

The latest NHL and hockey rumours for April 30, 1980:

In a post-game interview after the Rangers loss in game 3 of the New York Rangers - Pittsburgh Penguins playoff series, Jaromir Jagr hinted that he may be playing his last game on Thursday. Brochu's take: In the NHL, maybe. Rumors have been swirling that he has an offer on the table to play with Omsk of the Russian Super League.

Speculation is rampant that the San Jose Sharks will fire head coach Ron Wilson if the Sharks lose their next game in Dallas.

The Columbus Blue Jacket have re-signed defenceman Jan Hejda to a three-year, $6 million contract extension.

The Anaheim Ducks signed forward Ryan Carter to a three-year contract extension.

The Dallas Stars re-signed centre Steve Ott to a two-year contract on Tuesday worth $2.85 million ($1.35 million in 2008-09 and $1.5 million in 2009-10) through the 2009-10 season.

The Los Angeles Kings have signed defenseman Alec Martinez to a three-year, entry-level contract.

Brochu's European rumour roundup:

Forward Brad Moran has left the Vancouver Canucks organization and signed a two-year deal with Skellefteå of the SEL. Source

There are rumours that forward Erik Westrum will leave Swiss side Ambri Piotta and return to the NHL. The Calgary Flames are apparently interested.

Steen, Jovo swap?

According to the NHL blog on Expressen.se, the Phoenix Coyotes are very interested in acquiring Alex Steen. The Coyotes were close to acquiring the Maple Leafs forward in the summer, but they have increased their efforts lately. They believe Steen would fit well into their young team. Gunnar Nordström also believes that the Maple Leafs may try to get Ed Jovanovski in return to boost their blueline. Source

Darren Dreger of TSN is reporting that Scott Niedermayer has established a personal deadline on his decision to return or retire. The veteran defenceman says he has been working out, staying in shape and is just starting to intensify his routine. Niedermayer admits a decision on his playing future will be made well before Christmas. Source

Anson Carter has committed to playing for HC Lugano in the Swiss Nationalliga A, starting from the international match break. Carter was unavailable to secure an NHL contract. Source

Jason Spezza has signed a 7 year, $49 million contract extension with the Ottawa Senators. The contract contains a no trade clause.

Carter, York to Switzerland?

According to Swiss newspaper "Blick", Anson Carter and Jason York could be headed to Switzerland. Carter, who suffered a concussion in his first pre-season game, has not been offered a contract by the Oilers yet. York, who is at the Senators camp, also has yet to sign with the club. York has previously played for HC Lugano in 2005-2006.

Steve Downie has been handed a 20 game suspension from the NHL. However, it is unlikely that he will make the NHL this season, and it's believed it will carry over to whenever he makes the Flyers squad.

Brent Sopel has left the Red Wings training camp and signed a one year, $1.5 million contract with the Chicago Blackhawks. Also, Mark Smith has signed with the Calgary Flames. Smith was released by the New York Rangers earlier this week. Source

Flashback Friday: With all the recent concussion talks, anyone remember this from 2004?

Lightning sale hits snag?

The sale of the Tampa Bay Lightning to the "Absolute Hockey" group seems to have hit a snag. The approval of the sale by the Board of Governors has been delayed until November. According to several league sources, the delay is due to a few of the financial backers of the group having pulled out. The group, led by former Blue Jackets GM Doug MacLean, may not have enough investors to buy the Lightning.

The rumours section of Yahoo Sports is speculating that Washington Capitals forward Ben Clymer may be traded. Clymer has two seasons left on his contract, and could go to a team looking for a reliable checking-line wing who isn't afraid to drop the gloves. Source

Injury reports: Jonathan Toews could miss 2-3 weeks with a broken right index finger, Petr Sykora will miss a few preseason games with a broken nose and Anson Carter suffered a concussion in his first preseason game.

Ozolinsh invited to Sharks camp

Sandis Ozolinsh has been invited to the San Jose Sharks training camp on a try-out basis. Ozolinsh played for the New York Rangers last season, but only had 3 assists in 21 games. Ozolinsh has been dealing with substance abuse problems, but feels healthy. “I have a lot of good memories here and I’m excited to be here,” said Ozolinsh. "I really hope to make this team." Source

According to TSN, Anson Carter has been invited to the Oilers training camp.

Vancouver Canucks fans got a few injury shocks today. Roberto Luongo got a high slapshot to the collarbone/throat, Sami Salo could have a possible broken wrist and Trevor Linden has a pulled groin.

Sullivan out 3 months

Steve Sullivan underwent back surgery Thursday and will be out for at least 3 months. Sullivan had been rehabbing in Vancouver but doctors recommended a second procedure to correct the disc problem in his back. This has set off rumours that the Predators will shop for some offense with their surplus of quality, young defenseman. Source

Bryan Berard has been invited to the Islanders training camp. Berard played for the Blue Jackets last season, amassing 3 assists in 11 games in an injury-plagued year. Source

According to a source in Vancouver, the Canucks have no interest in Anson Carter and are close to signing another defenseman.