Hockey and NHL rumors for July 26, 2009

The Boston Bruins have traded defenseman Aaron Ward to the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for forward Patrick Eaves and a fourth-round selection in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft.

The Bruins have placed Eaves on waivers, with the intention of buying out his contract. Brochu's take: Eaves' stock has really dropped over the last few years, as he was expected to be a 20-goal scorer.

The B's have also signed defenseman Derek Morris to a 1-year, $3.3 million contract.

The Canes have re-signed forward Tuomo Ruutu to a 3-year, $11.4 million contract.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have also re-signed goalie Justin Pogge to a 1-year, $605,000 contract. Brochu's take: There's also rumors that GM Brian Burke is trying to trade him, but his value is quite low at the moment.

The St. Louis Blues have re-signed defensemen Steve Wagner and Roman Polak.

The New York Islanders have signed forward Nate Thompson to a one-year, two-way contract.

The Philadelphia Flyers have signed forward Lukas Kaspar to a one-year deal.

The Phoenix Coyotes have signed forward Daniel Winnik to a 1-year deal.

The Anaheim Ducks have re-signed forward Petteri Nokelainen.