NHL and Hockey Rumors for June 9, 2009

The Philadelphia Flyers have signed goalie Ray Emery to a one-year, $1.5 million contract. The deal cannot be officially announced until July 1, when Emery is eligible to be signed. Brochu's take: Here we go again! The Pennsylvania Highway Patrol better get their tickets ready.

The Chicago Blackhawks have signed forward Rob Klinkhammer, defensemen Jonathan Carlsson and Brian Connelly and goaltender Alec Richards to entry-level contracts. Carlsson was the Hawks' fourth round choice in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft. Klinkhammer and Connelly had been playing with the AHL Rockford IceHogs, while Richards is a college free agent from Yale University. Source

The Atlanta Thrashers have re-signed forward Marty Reasoner to a two-year, contract extension.

The Calgary Flames have re-signed goalie Curtis McElhinney to a one-way, two-year deal, worth slightly over $1 million. Brochu's take: Hmmm, they must have a lot of confidence in him to sign a one-way contract. I would have guessed the Flames would go out this summer to find some better backup goaltending.

The Anaheim Ducks have re-signed forward Mike Brown to a two-year, $1.075 million contract extension.

NHL and Hockey Rumors for June 4, 2009

The Colorado Avalanche have fired head coach Tony Granato and named Greg Sherman as the new general manager. Along with Granato, five others in the Avs' front office were also fired. Brochu's take: It's absolutely bush-league the way the Colorado organization let Granato sit like a sitting duck, waiting for the hammer to fall. I think future players and management will be more careful about joining the Avs. Source

According to Tim Panaccio of CSNPhilly.com, the Philadelphia Flyers are close to signing goalie Ray Emery to a contract. Several NHL GMs have confirmed that this is pretty close to a "done deal". Emery cannot sign a contract until July 1, because he is still considered a UFA, even though he spent last season with KHL team Atlant Mytischi. Source

Here comes Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun:

Garrioch claims that Tampa Bay Lightning forward Vincent Lecavalier is available, despite numerous denials by Bolts GM Brian Lawton. Speculation is that the Montreal Canadiens and Los Angeles Kings remain the frontrunners to land the superstar, while Garrioch claims the Edmonton Oilers made a pitch for him last season. Brochu's take: Expect the Lecavalier rumors to reach a crescendo near the NHL Entry Draft.

San Jose Sharks GM Doug Wilson has fielded calls on forwards Patrick Marleau and Joe Thornton, but it's unlikely that Wilson will move either. He is however, certain to make moves this summer.

The Boston Herald is reporting that the Bruins may consider trading RFA forward Phil Kessel, as they are limited by the amount of cap space after re-signing forward David Krejci. The Herald is also reporting speculation that forward Marc Savard be willing to waive his no trade clause. Brochu's take: There's just no more salary cap space for the Bruins to keep all that talent. Teams will be lining up to get their hands on Savard and Kessel, but that's a shocker that Savard would be willing to waive his NTC. Source

NHL and Hockey Rumors for May 4, 2009

According to the New York Post, Markus Naslund has retired from the NHL at the age of 35. Naslund notified New York Rangers GM Glen Sather of his decision at an exit interview on Thursday. The Rangers have not commented on the newspaper report. Naslund still has one year remaining on his contract, worth $3 million. Brochu's take: Naslund was once amongst the top 3 players in the league. However, he's never really been the same since the Steve Moore hit.

The San Jose Sharks have signed forward John McCarthy to a two-year, entry-level contract. McCarthy was the Sharks' 7th round pick in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft.

According to TSN, the Philadelphia Flyers have had significant discussions with Ray Emery's agent, J.P. Barry, about a return to the NHL. Emery played in Russia last season in the Kontinental Hockey League with Atlant Mytischi and has a lucrative offer on the table to return to the KHL with the same club. The Flyers have been rumored to be looking to improve their goaltending position, and they are also interested in Florida Panthers goalie Craig Anderson and Atlanta Thrashers goalie Kari Lehtonen. Brochu's take: There's also rumors that the Edmonton Oilers are looking closely at the young netminder. Source

The Chicago Sun-Times is reporting the Blackhawks and free agent-to-be forward Martin Havlat are discussing a 8-10 year contract extension. Brochu's take: While Havlat finally had an injury-free season, his questionable injury history should scare any team off a long-term offer like that. The Hawks would be making a big mistake if they did that. Source

Brochu's European rumor roundup:

Buffalo Sabres goalie Mikael Tellqvist has left the organization and has signed with Russian club Ak Bars Kazan for the 2009-2010 season.

NHL and Hockey Rumors for Feb 12, 2009

Speculation continues to mount that Montreal Canadiens GM Bob Gainey will start making moves to pull his team out of their losing streak. The Canadiens held a players-only meeting right after their loss to the Calgary Flames, which actually violated NHL rules about player accessiblity immediately after games. Brochu's take: Gainey does have a history of making deadline moves, no matter how good or bad the team is doing. Remember Huet being traded last season?

Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun believes that defenseman Senators defenseman Filip Kuba will gather a lot of interest as the trade deadline approaches, but Kuba controls his destiny with a no trade clause. Garrioch states that "it's believed the Bruins, Panthers, Sharks, Flames, Wild, [Blue] Jackets, Hurricanes and Flyers are among the teams looking for help on the blue line." Brochu's take: Hmm...didn't know Kuba had a no-trade clause. [Why?] His offensive skills could be valuable to a playoff contender. Source

Brochu's European rumor roundup:

According to Pierre LeBrun of ESPN, goalie Ray Emery has returned to his KHL team, Atlant Mytishchi. “I talked to Ray on Monday, and we made the decision that he should go back [to Russia],” his agent, J.P. Barry, told ESPN.com on Tuesday. “I felt that he should finish what he started and that we would continue to work out the compensation issue. There was NHL interest here, but the problem was that even if he signed, he would have to clear waivers, and we had no idea where he would have ended up," Barry said. "He'll be an unrestricted free agent and can hit the market as early as May." Brochu's take: Hmmm, I wonder what NHL teams were interested? It looks more and more like Emery will be returning to North America in the summer. Source

Poll Results:

Do you think Vinny Lecavalier will be traded?

Yes	58 (45%)
No	69 (54%)

Total Votes: 127

Do you think firing Craig Hartsburg will save the Senators season?

Yes	4 (4%)
No	57 (63%)
Who cares	29 (32%)

Total Votes: 90

There are four veeeerry die-hard Senators fans! ;-)

Weekend rumor roundup for Feb 7-8, 2009

There will probably be another part of the rumor roundup on Monday, just to pick up the rest of the reports this weekend.

According to Pierre LeBrun of ESPN, the Detroit Red Wings can only sign one of Johan Franzen or Marian Hossa, because of the CBA's tagging rule. The other player will have to wait until July 1st. Brochu's take: The moneys' on Franzen being signed, as he will cost significantly less than Hossa. Hossa wants to stay in Detroit, but unless he takes a massive hometown discount, he won't be with the Red Wings come next season.

The Vancouver Canucks have yet to officially make a contract offer to veteran defenseman Mattias Ohlund. Ohlund has a no trade clause. Brochu's take: It's likely that the Canucks will keep Ohlund (unless they are out of the playoff picture) and let him walk into the sunset come summertime.

There has also been contract discussions between the Canucks and the Sedin twins, but talks have stalled. Both Daniel and Henrik Sedin denied a report that they were seeking a $6-7 million a year contract each. They re-iterated their desire to stay in Vancouver and play together. Brochu's take: They will have to take a big hometown discount to stay together in Vancouver.

LeBrun also reports the Canucks, along with the Montreal Canadiens, Colorado Avalanche, New Jersey Devils and Buffalo Sabres may also have interest in Atlanta Thrashers defenseman Mathieu Schneider. Brochu's take: Schneider's name has been in the rumour mill a lot lately. Look for him to be moved to a playoff contender at the NHL trade deadline. Source

Brochu's European rumor roundup:

LeBrun also reported that goalie Ray Emery has left his KHL team Atlant Moscow. Allegedly, the team has been using the wrong exchange rate most of the season and Emery is about 33% shy right now of what he should have earned. There are still several NHL teams interested in his services. Brochu's take: He would have to clear waivers first anyways. There's also been tons of speculation that KHL teams have been unable to pay their players.

NHL and hockey rumors for Oct 29, 2008

Marty York of Metro News is reporting rumors that the Edmonton Oilers are trying to trade a goaltender for a "hard-nosed forward. or two." York quotes two NHL sources that the Oilers are dangling one of their three goalies as trade bait. The Oilers currently have Dwayne Roloson, Mathieu Garon and Jeff Drouin-Deslauriers on their roster. Brochu's take: I doubt that the Oilers are shopping Garon or Drouin-Deslauriers, but they have been shopping Roloson for a long time. Source

The Phoenix Coyotes have claimed defenseman Ken Klee off re-entry waivers from the Anaheim Ducks. The Ducks will pick up half of Klee's salary.

The Florida Panthers have signed free agent defenseman Jassen Cullimore to a one-year contract.

Brochu's European rumor roundup:

Defenseman Konstantin Pushkarev has signed with Metallurg Magnitogorsk of the Russian KHL. The Dallas Stars released Pushkarev earlier this month.

Russian sources are reporting that the Colorado Avalanche may be interested in signing goaltender Ray Emery once the KHL season is over. Brochu's take: There may be better goalies available next summer.

Poll Results:

Should the NHL expand to Europe?

Yes	14 (10%)
No	114 (82%)
Who cares?	10 (7%)

Total votes: 138

Thanks to everyone who voted in the polls!!

NHL and hockey rumors for Oct 19, 2008

On CBC's Hockey Night in Canada broadcast, the "Hotstove" panel mentioned that Philadelphia Flyers coach John Stevens could be the next head coach to be fired, if the Flyers don't pull out of their recent slump.

It was also mentioned that Chicago Blackhawks GM Dale Tallon could be in danger, but there is no chance that senior adviser Scotty Bowman will take over. It's been rumored that Tallon was forced to fire coach Denis Savard by Bowman and president John McDonaugh.

Sportsnet's Mike Brophy is quoting "sources" that goaltender Dwayne Roloson has asked to be traded. There are rumours that the Nashville Predators may be interested in the veteran goalie. Brochu's take: It's no secret the Oilers are shopping Roloson, but there haven't been any takers. The Preds are looking for an experienced backup, so "Roli" may be a good fit.

The following rumors are from the irrepressible Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun:

Boston Bruins forward Peter Schaefer turned down a $2.1 million contract to play in the KHL. The Bruins are still looking to deal the forward for a defenseman. Brochu's take: Not many teams are going to take that much salary back, especially for a third liner.

The Vancouver Canucks are looking to deal Matt Pettinger, and the Atlanta Thrashers, Florida Panthers and Carolina Hurricanes may have interest.

The Hawks have held talks with the San Jose Sharks about defenseman Kyle McLaren. Brochu's take: There are still major cap issues to be settled IF this comes to pass.

"A couple of teams" have called agent J.P. Barry about goaltender Ray Emery, who cannot leave his $2 million contract until after the season ends. It's believed the Los Angeles Kings are looking for goaltending help. Brochu's take: I guess Garrioch believes the "if you repeat it enough times, it will come true" mantra, as he's been beating to death this Emery-to-Kings "rumor".

NHL free agent signings for July 9, 2008

Former Ottawa Senators goalie Ray Emery has signed a one-year deal with Atlant Mytishchi of the new Russian Continental Hockey League. The deal is reportedly worth in excess of $2 million plus bonuses. Brochu's take: This was pretty obvious as none of the teams looking for goaltending even went near the guy. Maybe he can get his act together and come back to the NHL in 2009-2010.

The Washington Capitals have re-signed forward Sergei Fedorov to a one-year, $4 million contract.

The Caps also signed forward Brooks Laich to a three-year, $6.2 million contract extension.

The Montreal Canadiens have re-signed defenseman Josh Gorges to a three-year contract.

The San Jose Sharks have re-signed defenseman Christian Ehrhoff to a three-year, $9.3 million contract extension.

The Columbus Blue Jackets have signed centre Michael Peca to a one-year, $1.315 million contract. The BJs also signed defenseman Andrey Plekhanov to a two-year contract and defenseman Clay Wilson and left wing John Vigilante to one-year contracts.

The Carolina Hurricanes have re-signed forward Chad LaRose to a one-year, $875,000 contract extension.

The Edmonton Oilers have re-signed forward Jean-Francois Jacques to a two-year contract.

NHL and hockey rumors for June 24, 2008

The Ottawa Senators have officially bought out the contract of goalie Ray Emery, making him an unrestricted free agent. Emery signed a three-year, $9.5 million contract in July of 2007 and has two years and $6.75 million remaining on his contract. Under CBA rules, the Senators are on the hook for one-third of Emery's remaining salary, $2.25 million. That amount will be spread across twice the length of the remaining years of the contract, resulting in a cap hit of slightly less than $600,000 for the next four years. Brochu's take: The Senators couldn't find a trade partner for the troubled netminder, but some team will pick him up. Emery also has the option to play in Europe.

Los Angeles Kings goale Dan Cloutier was expected to be bought out over the weekend but, according to CKNW Radio in Vancouver, a source is claiming that if the former Canucks goalie is injured, the team cannot complete the move, and will be force to pay his $3 million salary for the 2008-2009 NHL season. Brochu's take: Cloutier and "injuries" go together like ham and eggs. I expect some sort of grievance will be filed to the NHLPA for this.

Three players have been put on waivers by their teams for the purpose of being bought out if they clear waivers tomorrow at noon: Washington Capitals forward Ben Clymer and Carolina Hurricanes' Jeff Hamilton and David Tanabe. Brochu's take: There are rumors that the Vancouver Canucks and Edmonton Oilers have interest in Hamilton has a power play specialist.

The Nashville Predators have re-signed defenseman Shea Weber to a three-year, $13.5 million contract extension.

The Tampa Bay Lightning have re-signed forward Vaclav Prospal to a four-year, $14 million contract extension. Source

The Chicago Blackhawks have re-signed forward Andrew Ladd to a two-year, $3.1 million contract. Source

Pre-draft rumor and trade update

This will be a first for Brochu is Hockey, there will be live updates as soon as trades happen today. The 2008 NHL Entry Draft is set to begin in 30 minutes, so keep refreshing!

The St. Louis Blues have acquired goaltender Chris Mason from the Nashville Predators in exchange for a 4th round draft choice in the 2008 Entry Draft.

The Ottawa Senators and Los Angeles Kings have put goalies Ray Emery and Dan Cloutier on waivers, respectively. It's anticipated that if they both clear waivers, than both netminders will be bought out. Source

According to the Toronto Star, Pittsburgh Penguins forward Evgeni Malkin has been offered a multi-year deal to play in Russia worth at least $12.5 million tax free per season, or the equivalent of $15 million per year in the NHL.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have granted permission to the Montreal Canadiens to speak to Mats Sundin's agent about a possible deal. Rumors are flying that this could be a done deal.

The Predators have also signed goalie Dan Ellis to a two-year, $3.5 million contract.

NHL and hockey rumors for June 17, 2008

The Ottawa Citizen is reporting that the Senators could be big players in the trade market around the NHL Entry draft, which is held in Ottawa this year. There's already speculation that the St. Louis Blues could be interested in troubled goalie Ray Emery, and rumors are flying that the Sens could be interested in two of the most talked about players this offseason; San Jose Sharks forward Patrick Marleau and Florida Panthers forward Olli Jokinen. It's also possible that the Senators would part with their draft pick. Brochu's take: Something could go down in the next week or so. Source

The Calgary Herald is bringing up the old Alex Tanguay for Olli Jokinen rumor again, and speculate that it could involve draft picks. Brochu's take: This rumor has been in the mill for the last year or so. However, Panthers' ownership has warmed up to the idea of trading Jokinen, so anything can happen. Source

Blake Wheeler has signed a two-year deal with the Boston Bruins, but it cannot be made official until July 1, in keeping with NHL bylaws that govern the movement and signing of unrestricted free agents. Source

The Atlanta Thrashers have re-signed goalie Johan Hedberg to a multi-year contract extension.

The New York Rangers have signed Swedish free agent forward Andreas Jamtin to a contract.

The Nashville Predators have signed defenseman Ryan Suter to a four-year, $14 million contract extension.

Hossa offered 7 year, $50 million?

According to the Columbus Dispatch, the Pittsburgh Penguins have offered Marian Hossa a 7 year, $50 million contract, and are waiting for his answer. It's believed the Penguins have made signing Hossa their top offseason priority.

The same Puck-rakers blog is speculating if Hossa is signed, the Columbus Blue Jackets will "swoop in" and trade for forward Ryan Malone's rights. The Jackets are rumored to be offering Dan Fritsche or a second/third round pick in the 2008 NHL Entry draft. Source

Various sources are saying the Pens are also close to re-signing Evgeni Malkin to a new contract extension. Rumors are that it will be a 5 or 6 year deal, perhaps less than what Sidney Crosby is getting.

The Penguins have also filed salary arbitration for goalie Marc-Andre Fleury. This will prevent rival teams from sending offer sheets for Fleury.

TSN is reporting that Montreal Canadiens goalie Yann Danis will not return with the team, and will test free agency. Rumors are that the Edmonton Oilers and LA Kings are interested in the young netminder.

In a Sportsnet interview, Ottawa Senators GM Bryan Murray confirmed that goalie Ray Emery will not be back with the team, and could be bought out in the next 48 hours. He also stated that it was unlikely that Wade Redden will remain with the Sens, who is due to become an unrestricted free agent July 1.

The Edmonton Oilers have signed forward Ryan Potulny to a one-year deal.

Peter DeBoer has been named the head coach of the Florida Panthers.

The Carolina Hurricanes have signed forward Trevor Gillies to a one-year contract. Source

Leino signs with Red Wings

According to a report in the Toronto Star, forward Jason Blake would welcome a trade. The Star asked Blake if he would put up a fuss if he were traded, he said: "Oh no, not at all, if that's the route." There have also been rumours that he could be on the list of buyouts that interim GM Cliff Fletcher plans to do this summer. Brochu's take: The Toronto media's love of the "buyout" option for its players is laughable. Buyouts are good options only if the contract is manageable. A trade seems most likely for Blake, however. Source

The Detroit Red Wings have signed Finnish forward Ville Leino to a one-year deal. Brochu's take: While the mainstream media have been focusing on the Brunnstrom affair, the Wings have made a even better move signing Leino. He could become an instant factor in the NHL. Source

There are conflicting reports that the Atlanta Thrashers have asked GM Don Waddell to step down and take another job in the organizations. TSN is reporting that Dave Nonis may be courted by Atlanta, and also Nonis will be interview on Tuesday for the vacant GM job in Toronto.

The Colorado Avalanche and coach Joel Quenneville have agreed to part ways. This has already sparked rumors that former goalie Patrick Roy could become the new head coach of the Avs.

Coach Jacques Lemaire has confirmed that he will return for an eighth season with the Minnesota Wild.

Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun believes that the only option for the Senators with the Ray Emery situation is a buyout. Also, he speculates that Chicago Blackhawks goalie Patrick Lalime will not return to the Hawks and could sign in Ottawa as a backup. Brochu's take: Stranger things have happened, but Lalime was carved like a turkey in Ottawa. Will the city welcome him with open arms? Source

The Ottawa Citizen is reporting that defenseman Wade Redden has no intention of accepting a lower offer from the Senators and it looks likely he will be leaving the Canadian capital via free agency. Brochu's take: Lowballing is never good in negotiations. Redden will easily get $6 million from someone this summer. Source

The Philadelphia Flyers have signed forwards Garrett Klotz and Darroll Powe to entry-level contracts. Source

Emery gone, Spezza for Luongo?

Ottawa Senators GM Bryan Murray revealed that goaltender Ray Emery will not be with the team next season. "My plan is not to have him back," Murray told reporters, "I told him (Emery) yesterday that the plan right now would be to investigate possible options for him," Murray said. "Meaning, to look for another team that is willing to make a trade." Murray also took the time to say that he will not trade Jason Spezza or Dany Heatley. Brochu's take: Emery was a major factor in the Senator's collapse this season. He will likely be gone via buyout, as few teams are interested in Emery. Source

The Ottawa Citizen is reporting a rumour of a blockbuster deal involving sending Jason Spezza to the Vancouver Canucks for Roberto Luongo. Brochu's take: Isn't this the "rumor" that Al Strachan said on CBC? Anything can happen, but there's about a 99.9995% chance that this trade would not happen. Source

Rumours continue to fly about who will become the new GM of the Vancouver Canucks. The Aquilini ownership group has already contacted Doug Armstrong, Neil Smith and John Muckler, while the frontrunners seem to be former agents Mike Gillis and Brian Lawton. The name of Kevin Cheveldayoff, the GM of the AHL Chicago Wolves, has been tossed around in NHL circles as well.

The Chicago Blackhawks have signed forward Dan Bertram and defenseman Mike Brennan to entry-level contracts. Both players had just won the NCAA Division I hockey championship with Boston College.

Bruce Garrioch's latest rumours

The latest from Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun:

Detroit Red Wings coach Mike Babcock could become the next coach of the Ottawa Senators. Babcock has the option for next year, but could become a "free agent" if he chooses to. Senators GM Bryan Murray and Babcock have a close relationship, with Murray hiring Babcock as the coach of the Anaheim Ducks.

The Chicago Blackhawks may be shopping Martin Havlat and his $6 million a year contract in the off-season.

The Columbus Blue Jackets may try to acquire San Jose Sharks centre Patrick Marleau in the off-season.

The Los Angeles Kings and Tampa Bay Lightning could make a pitch for impending UFA goaltender Jose Theodore. Garrioch believes that Theodore needs a strong playoff run with the Colorado Avalanche to boost his stock.

Paul Kelly, the NHLPA's executive director, said yesterday the union would be willing to change the CBA to allow Anaheim Ducks GM Brian Burke's plan for salary retention. Burke has been floating the idea that teams be allowed to pick up as much as $500,000 of a player's contract if the player is moved to another team.

The likelihood of the Atlanta Thrashers shopping defenseman Alexei Zhitnik in the summer is high. Zhitnik has one year left at $3.5 million and has been a healthy scratch several times this season.

The talk out of Philly is that if the Toronto Maple Leafs had traded Tomas Kaberle to the Philadelphia Flyers at the deadline, Toronto would not only have received Jeff Carter in return, they would have gotten a 1st round pick in the deal as well.

Garrioch also speculates in this article that the Ottawa Senators could buy out Ray Emery. Under the terms of the new CBA, Emery, who is 25 and doesn't turn 26 until September, would only be eligible to receive $2.25 million in a buyout because he's under 26. The Senators would be allowed to spread the cap hit over double the remaining term of the deal which means it would cost the club $562,500 per season for four years.

Blackhawks and Senators swapping goalies?

TSN is reporting a rumor that Ottawa Senators GM Bryan Murray and Chicago Blackhawks GM Dale Tallon were considering a crazy trade that would involve swapping goaltenders Martin Gerber and Ray Emery for Nikolai Khabibulin and Patrick Lalime.

The Detroit Red Wings have made several offers to their impending free agents. The Wings would like to sign forward Dan Cleary to a long-term deal for $2.5 million a season, but he could earn more on the open market. Defenseman Andreas Lilja has been offered a two-year deal worth a little more than $1 million a season. Defenseman Chris Chelios will be offered another one-year deal after the season.

The club hopes to sign forward Henrik Zetterberg to a long-term deal for five or seven years in the neighborhood of $7 million a season during the first week of July. He has one year left on a deal that averages $2.65 million a season and can't be signed to an extension until July 1. Source

There are rumours that Buffalo Sabres goalie Ryan Miller could be moving to another team next year. Miller does not seem to be in a hurry to negotiate. Miller earns $2.5 million this year, and will eran to $3.5 million next season, the last in his three-year deal. A report in The Buffalo News has suggested the goaltender would be looking for a six-year contract worth around $41 million. Source

The acquisition of Cristobal Huet by the Washington Capitals have upset goaltender Olaf Kolzig, who is a UFA this summer. "I guess I'll talk with my wife about what we want to do next year or the year after." said Kolzig. He will most likely move to a new team in the summer. Source

Leftover NHL rumors from the weekend

There's been a lot of rumors over this weekend; here are some that didn't make the last post:

There's a rumour that the Ottawa Senators would like to trade goaltender Ray Emery to the Chicago Blackhawks for Nikolai Khabibulin.

Another one involves the Sens sending Antoine Vermette and a "high draft choice" to the Atlanta Thrashers for Marian Hossa. Considering some of the Hossa offers flying around, it would take more from the Senators to get Hossa.

Another Senators rumour involves Ray Emery, Andrej Meszaros and Joe Corvo sent to the Edmonton Oilers for Dwayne Roloson, Joni Pitkanen and Jarret Stoll.

The trade rumors above come from the The Gazette.

Scott Morrison of CBC is reporting that the Florida Panthers and Washington Capitals are interested in San Jose Sharks defenseman Matt Carle.

San Jose Sharks may be looking at Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Brent Seabrook, after the Wade Redden deal fell through.

Kings fire sale?

The LA Daily Times is reporting that the LA Kings could be conducting a fire sale very soon. GM Dean Lombardi must decide which players are part of his future, and which players could be traded for draft picks and younger players. Defensemen Rob Blake, Brad Stuart and Jaroslav Modry and forwards Ladislav Nagy, Brian Willsie and Scott Thornton are others often mentioned in trade rumors. Michael Cammalleri could be available if the price is right. Source

The Kings have also signed forward Raitis Ivanans to a two-year, $1.2 million contract extension.

New York Rangers GM Glen Sather is actively shopping defenseman Marek Malik, but no teams are willing to meet Sather's demand of a top-four defenseman as the return. Malik has around $950,000 left in salary this season and will be a UFA this summer. Source

The Columbus Blue Jackets have traded forward Jody Shelley to the San Jose Sharks in exchange for a sixth round pick in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. Source

Rumors are flying that the Ottawa Senators are looking to trade troubled goaltender Ray Emery. Emery was fined by the team on Tuesday for showing up late to practise in New York. He was apparently returning from a trip to Las Vegas during the All-Star break.

Big rumour update

There are lots of trade rumors going around today, most of them from Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun:

The Nashville Predators could look to move centre Jason Arnott.

The LA Kings are shopping defenseman Tom Preissing. The Boston Bruins and Carolina Hurricanes are interested. Garrioch also adds that Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli is looking for another blueliner to help out Zdeno Chara. The New York Rangers are also shopping Paul Mara, and Garrioch believes that he would be a good fit in Boston because he is an ex-Bruin.

If the Edmonton Oilers don't re-sign defenseman Joni Pitkanen, there is "strong belief" that he could be moved by the trade deadline.

The Philadelphia Flyers are not happy with Steve Downie and could use him as tradebait.

The Pittsburgh Penguins are interested in goaltender Ray Emery. Emery rumours continue to fly around the league.

The Ottawa Senators are still looking to move defenseman Joe Corvo.

Extension/Contract news, also from Garrioch:

Garrioch claims that sources tell him that Washington Capitals GM George McPhee "insulted" Alexander Ovechkin by offering a five-year, $37.5 million deal. Ovechkin rejected the offer and is believed to be seeking a $9-10 million a year contract.

Citing NHL agents, Garrioch claims Dion Phaneuf has turned down a 5 year, $30 million contract extension from the Calgary Flames. Phaneuf will become a RFA this summer.

Finnish NHL players implicated in drug trafficking

The Agence France-Presse (AFP) is reporting that Finnish ice hockey players competing in the NHL have been implicated in a network of trafficking amphetamines recently uncovered in Finland and Estonia, as reported by the sports newspaper Urheilulehti. Police have refused to comment on the affair. "We have decided not to make public the results of the preliminary inquiry or the names of the people being questioned," the head of the enquiry Ari Karvonen said. The head of the Finnish Association of Ice Hockey Players however dismissed the newspaper claims. This story will continue to be updated as it breaks. Source

Ottawa Senators goaltender Ray Emery was sent home from practise because he was "ill". Emery's absence comes just one day after a stick-slamming outburst during an optional practice on Thursday, apparently venting some frustration with his lack of playing time. There were rumours of Emery being shopped earlier this season, and perhaps with this latest incident, GM Bryan Murray would consider offers for him. The usual suspects that would be interested are the LA Kings, Pittsburgh Penguins and the Tampa Bay Lightning. Source

Sportsnet hockey analyst Pierre LeBrun reports that Tampa Bay Lightning GM Jay Feaster has given the green light for Marc Denis and his agent to talk to other teams to see if anyone is interested. Feaster has assured that Denis will be recalled on re-entry waivers if a team is indeed interested. Denis is earning $2.8 million this year and will earn $3 million next year.

Rumors are hotter than ever that the Minnesota Wild will be sold to former Nashville Predators owner Craig Leipold of Racine, Wis., within months. The Wild, who became an expansion franchise for $80 million eight years ago, could bring $225 million in a sale. Source