Hockey and NHL Rumors for Sept 29, 2010

With Minnesota Wild goalie Josh Harding out for the season, there have been rumors swirling as to what the Wild will do with their backup situation.  Free agent goalie Jose Theodore's agent Don Meehan has contacted the Wild to see if they are interested in his client.  As well, there are rumors that the Wild are looking at San Jose Sharks goalie Thomas Greiss.  Brochu's take:  It's surprising that Theodore wasn't even given a tryout by any NHL team.  His experience could be a good compliment to Nicklas Backstrom.  Source

The New York Islanders have signed defenseman Mike Mottau to a two-year, $1.6 million contract.

The Islanders have also invited several players late to their training camp, as forwards Dean McAmmond, Krys Kolanos, Jed Ortmeyer, defenseman Anders Eriksson, and goalie Manny Legace have been given professional tryout contracts.

The Colorado Avalanche have signed forward Luke Walker to an entry-level contract.

Comrie, Campoli for McAmmond and 1st

The New York Islanders have traded forward Mike Comrie and defenseman Chris Campoli to the Ottawa Senators for forward Dean McAmmond and San Jose's first-round pick in the upcoming draft, obtained via a trade with the Tampa Bay Lightning. Brochu's take: A desperate move from GM Bryan Murray. He knows that he has to make the playoffs or he's gone. Value wise, it's essentially Comrie and Campoli for a first. However, the more important matter is that Hilary Duff and Carrie Underwood will be on TV together more often!

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

Downie to get more than 10 games?

According to reports from the East coast, Steve Downie may get more than 10 games for his hit on Dean McAmmond. Downie has been suspended indefinitely, pending a review by the league. Colin Campbell has already been angered by the amount of fighting and violent play of the pre-season, and may use Downie as an example to the rest of the league that such actions will not be tolerated.

Dan McGillis has been playing well with the Vancouver Canucks and is very close to signing a contract. The deal is most likely a two-way deal in the $650,000 range. Source

The Anaheim Ducks and Cologne Sharks are officially pairing up. "This partnership can be of great importance to the DEL", says Sharks GM Thomas Eichin. The teams will work together on scouting, coaching, youth development and other hockey matters. It's also rumoured that the Ducks may play an exhibition game in the KölnArena in the 2008-2009 season. Source