NHL and hockey rumors for Aug 3, 2008

According to the Puck-rakers blog of the Columbus Dispatch, the Blue Jackets have invited defenseman Richard Matvichuk to training camp as a non-roster tryout. Matvichuk spent last season with the New Jersey Devils AHL affiliate Lowell, scoring a goal and three assists.

The Tennessean is reporting that the Nashville Predators are talking to the agents of four unrestricted forwards: Glen Murray, Mark Parrish, Martin Gelinas and Jan Hlavac. The Preds are looking for a forward in case Alexander Radulov does remain in Russia. It's also been confirmed that the Predators have talked to one other team about trades. Source

The Toronto Maple Leafs have signed forward Andre Deveaux.

Brochu's European rumor roundup:

Mike Johnson has left the St. Louis Blues organization and has signed with DEL team Kolner Haie for the 2008-2009 season.

Forward Geoff Platt has left the Anaheim Ducks organization and has signed with Ilves of the SM-Liiga in Finland.

Reebok to provide alternate jerseys

Reebok has released a statement about their new uniforms. In the alternate version, one fabric has been replaced with an air-knit fabric and the bead-away water repellency technology has been removed. Both jerseys will continue to offer up to four performance materials, including Reebok's PlayDry moisture-wicking technology and a stretch mesh for increased range of motion and ventilation. This will be conducted at a player-to-player basis. Replica versions will remain unchanged. Source

The Washington Capitals and right-winger Alexander Semin agreed Saturday on a $9.2 million, two-year contract extension. Semin, 23, is earning $1.2 million this season and would have been eligible for restricted free agency in the summer. Instead, he'll make $4.2 million in 2008-09 and $5 million in 2009-10. Source

Vadim Khomitski has informed the Iowa Stars he is returning to Russia. It's believed he has signed with Khimik Mytischy of the Russian Super League. "We brought him back because we wanted to see if he could make it here, but I think it was easier for him to go back to Russia," Stars GM Doug Armstrong said. Armstrong said he didn't want to close any doors with Khomitski, but that he was not sure what this means to any future attempts at have the defenseman try to make the NHL. Source

The Vancouver Canucks have inquired about Patrick Sharp, but the Blackhawks are not interested in making any trades at this point.

Mike Johnson has been sent on waivers by the St. Louis Blues. The Blues need to free up a spot for Erik Johnson, who is coming off IR.

Redden to waive NTC?

According to Marty York of the Metro News, Wade Redden may waive his no trade clause and clear the way for a deal to send him to the Chicago Blackhawks. York cites that "NHL insiders" suggest this may happen soon. Last week, it was revealed that GM Dale Tallon of the Hawks was interested in the Ottawa defenseman. Source

Mike Johnson is having discussions with the St. Louis Blues and a deal may be done very soon.