Ballard close to contract?

According to the azcentral.com, Keith Ballard is close to re-signing with the Coyotes. The RFA earned $900,600 last year and is looking for a multi-year deal in the same neighbourhood as the Kevin Bieksa contract. Also, they are looking to fill a few holes and are reportedly interested in Anson Carter. Source

The New York Rangers are almost at the cap and still have to sign Sean Avery and Marcel Hossa. The Canucks and Oilers have shown mild interest in Hossa but only at a bargain price. The Rangers are also looking to unload some salary and may trade one of their top defensemen, such as Paul Mara or Michal Rozsival.

Habs sign Ryder

As per TSN. The deal is rumoured to be in the 3.5-4 million dollar range. Source

Rejected Kiprusoff offer

A Calgary source has indicated that the contract extention Miikka Kiprusoff turned down was a 6 year, $36 million dollar deal. It is believed he is seeking a contract comparable to Roberto Luongo, who is averaging $6.75 million a year.

Patrick Stefan may be signing a one year contract with Sparta Praha.

Montreal has offered Patrice Brisebois a one year, $700,000 contract.

Milan Jurcina signed - official.

The Washington Capitals have signed Milan Jurcina to a two year deal. He will earn $850,000 next season and $912,500 in 2008-09. Washington Post

Cammalleri sign and trade?

A source has revealed that the possibility of a sign and trade with Mike Cammalleri is high. GM Dean Lombardi has been quoted as saying that the two parties are "far apart." The 25 year old centre was the leading scorer for the Kings last season and his salary could reach as high as $5 million after arbitration. Teams that put calls to the Kings are Edmonton, Detroit and the Islanders.

The Senators are dangling Martin Gerber's contract but no one is biting. However, GM Bryan Murray may be willing to include a first rounder with Gerber to tempt another team to take his contract. Teams that have ample cap space and backup position available, such as Nashville and San Jose, may take the bait.