Blackhawks showcasing Richmond?

The Chicago Blackhawks have recalled defenseman Danny Richmond from the Rockford IceHogs of the AHL on Sunday. Earlier this week, GM Dale Tallon admitted that Richmond was a possible candidate to be traded. The trade freeze ended Friday and Tallon also said he would begin to talk to teams about possible moves. "Seems we get one back and we lose two," Tallon said of injuries. "It looked like we were going to be really healthy there for a while. When that happens we'll be a much better team." Perhaps Richmond is being showcased? Source

The Denver Post is reporting that LA Kings defenseman Rob Blake would waive his no trade clause if he was asked. "(The Kings) would have to come to me first, but, yeah, it's a possibility," Blake said, after Saturday's 3-1 Kings victory over the Avs. Source

Carolina Hurricanes GM Jim Rutherford is looking for a puck-moving defenseman and an enforcer. It's believed he's made calls for Chicago Blackhawks tough guy David Koci. Could he be interested in Rob Blake? Source

Forward Darren McCarty will try to make a comeback to the NHL after signing with the Flint Generals of the IHL. The 35-year-old plans to practice with the International Hockey League team on Monday but must be cleared by the NHL before playing, the Generals announced Saturday. Hat-tip to the people over at HockeyFights.com and Kuklas Korner, who had this earlier than the major media outlets.

Brochu's European round-up:

Goaltender Fred Brathwaite has signed with Avangard Omsk of the Russian Super League. Brathwaite had left the Atlanta Thrashers affiliate, the Chicago Wolves, in December.

Forward Nathan Perrott has left the Toronto Marlies (Maple Leafs AHL affiliate) and signed with Vityaz Podolsk Chekhov of the Russian Super League. Source

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.

Samsonov waived, Rangers interested in Ryder?

The Chicago Blackhawks have placed forward Sergei Samsonov on waivers. This will free up some cap space for a possible trade. Source

The Montreal Gazette is reporting that the New York Rangers have definitely inquired about Montreal Canadiens forward Michael Ryder. Source

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

Marc Denis waived, Rangers/Blue Jackets update

Following the loss to Montreal Thursday night, goaltender Marc Denis has been waived by the Tampa Bay Lightning, effective Friday. If he clears waivers, he will report to their AHL affiliate, the Norfolk Admirals. "It's obvious a transaction is coming...but I don't want to speculate. With the money I make and the contract I signed, the no-trade clause has only very little value." Denis said. Source

The New York Daily News is also reporting on the rumors between the New York Rangers and the Columbus Blue Jackets. GM Scott Howson was spotted chatting with GM Glen Sather in the press box at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul last Thursday, and then both Howson and Sather enjoyed the rest of the game in the visiting teams' private box. Petr Prucha and David Vyborny seems to be the names that have been tossed around the most frequently. The Blue Jackets might also be interested in young forwards Brandon Dubinsky and Ryan Callahan. A trade could come very soon. Source

David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News is reporting that scouts from 6 teams were at the San Jose Sharks-LA Kings game on Wednesday. These teams were the Boston Bruins, Chicago Blackhawks, Dallas Stars, Pittsburgh Penguins, New York Rangers and Vancouver Canucks. Source

Potential Rangers/Blue Jackets blockbuster?

Aaron Portzline reports on his Columbus Blue Jackets blog Puck-rakers that the New York Rangers and Blue Jackets have talked, but nothing is imminent. Portzline also reported that on Dec. 23, when the Blue Jackets played Nashville, Gord Clark – the Rangers’ director of player personnel – watched from high above the rink. The Rangers are said to be interested in right winger David Vyborny and a defenseman, maybe Adam Foote or Rostislav Klesla. The Blue Jackets are said to be interested in right winger Petr Prucha. Source

Larry Brooks of the New York Post is also reporting on this rumor, speculating that other players could be included in an expanded deal. The Rangers would like to get rid of the contracts of defensemen Paul Mara and Marek Malik, but would also have to include someone like forward Nigel Dawes to make up the difference. Brooks also notes that Jason Chimera could be included in any deal between the two teams. Source

There are rumors coming from Chicago that Tuomo Ruutu could be shopped by the Blackhawks to get a veteran defenseman. The plethora of young forward talent in the Chicago system has made Ruutu a valuable asset in the market.

The NHL could be returning to ESPN (ESPN2 to be accurate) for the 2008-2009 season.

Kessel available?

According to The Boston Globe, the Boston Bruins must make a trade to save their their season. Writer Kevin Paul Dupont suggests that forward Phil Kessel would be the best asset to prospective teams. His speed and youth, along with his low salary could be used as trade bait to help the offensively-challenged Bruins. Dupont also suggest that goalie Tuukka Rask and defenseman Mark Stuart will also bring bidders. Source

News you might have missed:

Dave King has been hired to coach The Adler Mannheim (Mannheim Eagles) of the DEL in Germany. King won his first game with the Eagles, a 7-2 victory over Düsseldorf. King will be getting Mannheim ready for the Spengler Cup. Based on his experiences in Russia, King wrote a book with writer Eric Duhatschek of the Globe and Mail. The book is titled ‘King of Russia, a year in the Russian Super League.' King's last job was in Sweden coaching the Malmo Redhawks in the Swedish Elite League. Source

Hurricanes interested in Ryder?

It was reported on CJAD radio in Montreal that the Carolina Hurricanes are interested in Michael Ryder. During the Canadiens game, one of the Carolina scouts asked about Ryder. The rumor is that the Canes would send back Andrew Ladd and a draft pick.

On CKNW radio in Vancouver, Rick Quinton reported in his rumour round-up that the San Jose Sharks are shopping Steve Bernier. The Sharks have been in the rumor mill lately because they have been under-performing.

Poll Results:

Who is the best offensive player in the NHL right now?

Vincent Lecavalier	128 (45%)
Henrik Zetterberg	42 (14%)
Sidney Crosby	43 (15%)
Ilya Kovalchuk	26 (9%)
Alex Ovechkin	17 (6%)
Daniel Alfredsson	7 (2%)
Other	18 (6%)

Total votes: 281

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas

I just want to wish all my readers Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas. Hopefully, everyone will be watching hockey highlights from Youtube on their brand new iPhone! ;-) Thank you to all my readers, and thank you for voting in the polls, clicking on the sponsors, and participating in the comments.

Brochu is Hockey will hopefully be adding new user-friendly features in 2008 as the trade deadline approaches. In the meantime, feel free to leave me a comment or use the handy labels on the bottom of my posts for rumors on your favourite player or team. Cheers and be safe.

Prucha for Malholtra?

The New York Rangers continue to scout the Columbus Blue Jackets closely, as another scout was at Sunday's game. The Puck-rakers blog adds that the Rangers have dispatched scout Gilles Leger to some Blue Jackets’ games. Word is that the Rangers like Manny Malholtra. The Blue Jackets have been interested in Petr Prucha for a few years. Could a swap be imminent? Source

Larry Brooks of the New York Post is reporting that Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Brooks Orpik could be available. Orpik was recently scratched for two games by coach Michel Therrien. Brooks claims there are players on the Pens that have ill feelings towards Therrien. Jarkko Ruutu and Gary Roberts have reportedly asked for trades. Source

On CBC's Hockey Night in Canada broadcast on Saturday night, Al Strachan mentioned that the Vancouver Canucks could be interested in three players on the Nashville Predators. Strachan, on the intermission program "Hotstove", reported that the Canucks should be looking at centres David Legwand, Jason Arnott and Radek Bonk. Legwand recently signed a long term extension with the Predators.

Rumours from Bruce Garrioch

Here are the latest rumors from Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun, who seems to have dipped into the eggnog early:

Garrioch reports that the Pittsburgh Penguins have talked to the Atlanta Thrashers about Marian Hossa. Penguins GM Ray Shero has been looking for a winger for Sidney Crosby and the UFA may be available at the trade deadline.

It's also possible that the Nashville Predators could send J.P. Dumont to the Pens. Shero used to be GM David Poile's assistant.

The New York Rangers haven't had any talks with goaltender Henrik Lundqvist, who can become a restricted free agent July 1 and is making $4.25 million this season. The Rangers are going to have to pony up about $8 million per season on a new contract to fend off the threat of an offer sheet from a team looking for goaltending help. The Tampa Bay Lightning, LA Kings and Edmonton Oilers would all be in the running.

Garrioch speculates that the Detroit Red Wings could be in the running to acquire Jaromir Jagr, if the Rangers decide to shop the forward.

Garrioch is repeating the rumors that Patrick Marleau is being shopped by the San Jose Sharks, and the Thrashers would love to bring him in as their no. 1 centre.

The Columbus Blue Jackets will entertain offers for three players if they drop out of the playoff race. Forwards Sergei Fedorov and Michael Peca, along with defenseman Adam Foote will be shopped by GM Scott Howson at the trade deadline if that happens.

The Ottawa Senators might move forward Antoine Vermette before the deadline. The Penguins made a call earlier in the season and may still be interested.

Fedorov to Montreal?

According to the Puck-rakers blog on the Columbus Dispatch website, sources in Moscow are indicating that the Blue Jackets were about to trade Sergei Fedorov to the Montreal Canadiens. Coach Ken Hitchcock denied the rumor, but it's clear that Fedorov will be traded sometime this season.

The blog is also reporting that New York Rangers scout Rick Kehoe has been spotted in Columbus on three occasions in recent weeks. On Thursday, Jackets’ GM Scott Howson watched the Rangers play in Minnesota. Could something be up between these two teams? Source

Sharks to make moves?

The San Jose Sharks held a two hour players only meeting on Friday to discuss their troubles. Many players believe that a change in attitude is needed. GM Doug Wilson prompted the meeting, and if he feels the players are still not responding, he will consider some serious changes, such as trades or even firing coach Ron Wilson. Source

Defenseman Magnus Johansson has cleared waivers and has been assigned to the AHL Rockford IceHogs by the Chicago Blackhawks. He will report to Rockford, but may decide to return to Sweden. Rumors are that he will most likely return to his old SEL team, Linköpings HC. Source

Forward Jamie Lundmark has left Dynamo Moskva (Moscow) and is now playing with the Lake Erie Monsters of the AHL. He was signed to a professional contract with the Hershey Bears, but he had to clear re-entry waivers. Source

Marc Denis to be waived?

Tampa Bay Lightning goaltender Karri Ramo made an impressive debut Thursday night against the Toronto Maple Leafs, winning 2-1. Tampa Bay management believe that Rämö is NHL ready and that could make Marc Denis available. GM Jay Feaster has been trying to trade Denis all season but he has had no offers. There are rumors that if Ramo continues his strong play that the Lightning would put Denis on waivers and try to get his contract off the salary cap.

In other Lightning news, prospect Luca Cunti has left St. Cloud State University and returned home to Switzerland. Cunti, the 3rd round, 75th overall pick in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, has been stuck in limbo because the NCAA would not allow him to play for St. Cloud due to the issue of some games he had played previously for a second division Swiss league. He will most likely join the Chicago Steel of the USHL. And any reason to use Cunti in this blog is a good reason. ;-) Source

Michael Ryder was again a healthy scratch for the Montreal Canadiens and rumours of him heading to Edmonton have intensified the past few days. The Oilers are still shopping Jarret Stoll and he could be a good fit in Montreal.

Devils in trade talks?

According to the Star-Ledger, New Jersey Devils GM Lou Lamoriello missed the game in Vancouver on Wednesday because he was attempting to make a trade prior to last night's midnight holiday roster freeze. It's possible that he could have a trade ready when the freeze ends on December 27. Source

Jeff Gordon of STLtoday.com is speculating that the St. Louis Blues are likely to make more moves this season, and could possibly bring back Minnesota Wild forward Pavol Demitra to the Blues. In order to do this, the Blues would have to get some of their contracts off the books, such as Jay McKee ($4 million), Martin Rucinsky ($3 million) and Christian Backman ($2.2 million). Source

Gordon is also reporting rumors that the Blues could bring in UFA Curtis Joseph as "stretch-run insurance", depending on how Joseph does at the Spengler Cup.

In other Devils news, they have signed forward Brad Snetsinger to his first professional contract, the team announced yesterday. The undrafted 20 year old is in his third year with the Windsor Spitfires of the OHL. Also, forward Jari Viuhkola has left the AHL Lowell Devils and has been re-assigned to Kärpät Oulu of the SM-Liiga in Finland. Source

University of Minnesota sophomore Kyle Okposo has made the decision to forgo the remainder of the 2007-08 season and his career with the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers following the World Junior Hockey Championship where he will play for Team USA. The New York Islanders have begun negotiations with Okposo on an entry-level contract. Source

Panthers interested in Ryder

According to the Miami Herald's Florida Panthers blog, On Frozen Pond, the Panthers could be interested in Michael Ryder. The writer is suggesting a change of scenery may be what Ryder needs. The Panthers will be without forward Ville Peltonen 6-8 weeks with a broken foot and it's believed Florida would like Ryder to fill that offensive spot. This has added some fuel to the rumor of Janis Sprukts going to Montreal in exchange for Ryder. Source

The Toronto Sun is reporting that Edmonton Oilers defenseman Dick Tarnstrom is available. There is a surplus of defenseman in the Oilers lineup and Tarnstrom could be the odd man out.

The Vandermeer-Eager trade has sparked speculation that both the Chicago Blackhawks and Philadelphia Flyers are not done with trading. Several deals could happen after the NHL trade freeze ends on December 27.

Jim Vandermeer traded for Ben Eager

The Philadelphia Flyers have acquired defenseman Jim Vandermeer from the Chicago Blackhawks for forward Ben Eager. **Update** “We wanted a high energy player for our fourth line and Ben Eager is that kind of player,” Blackhawks GM Dale Tallon said. “He is just 23 years old, he can skate and he is a very gritty player.” Source Source2

Canadiens acquire Janis Sprukts?

According to the Team 990 in Montreal, the Montreal Canadiens may have acquired the rights to forward Janis Sprukts from the Florida Panthers. Sprukts has been playing with Rauman Lukko in Finland, but he only had a 4 month contract that ended this month. (For more on Sprukts, click here) There have been conflicting internet reports that he re-signed with Lukko, but there are rumors that a deal could be announced after the Habs game tomorrow. Stay tuned.

The San Jose Mercury News is reporting that scouts from 14 teams were at the Anaheim Ducks-San Jose Sharks on Sunday. The teams were the Boston Bruins, Chicago Blackhawks, Columbus Blue Jackets, Dallas Stars, Detroit Red Wings, Florida Panthers, LA Kings, New York Rangers, New York Islanders, Ottawa Senators, Pittsburgh Penguins, St. Louis Blues, Toronto Maple Leafs and Vancouver Canucks. Source

The Chicago Blackhawks have inquired about defenseman Francois Beauchemin, according to the Daily Herald. Ducks GM Brian Burke would like to free up some more cap space for next year. Source

The NHL roster freeze is from December 19 to 27. Here is the details from the CBA:

16.10 Holiday Roster Freeze. For all Players on an NHL Active Roster, Injured Reserve, or Players with Non-Roster and Injured Non-Roster status as of midnight local time December 19, a roster freeze shall apply through midnight local time December 27, with respect to Waivers, Trades and Loans; provided, however, that Players may be Recalled to NHL Clubs during this period and, provided further, that if a Player is placed on Regular Waivers or Re-Entry Waivers prior to the roster freeze period and is claimed during such roster freeze period, the roster freeze period shall not apply and the Player shall immediately report to the claiming Club. However, during the roster freeze period a Club can make any Player transactions necessary for the Club to come into compliance with Article 50 as a result of a Player being removed from the Bona-Fide Long-Term Injury/Illness Exception.

Oilers after Vandermeer, Sharp?

The following rumors come from Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal:

Edmonton Oilers GM Kevin Lowe was scouting the Chicago Blackhawks-LA Kings game on Wednesday night in Chicago. He was also in Montreal to see the Montreal Canadiens play the Tampa Bay Lightning on Tuesday.

Lowe likes defenseman Jim Vandermeer, a Western kid and one of the league's "best scrappers". He may also be looking at Rene Bourque and Patrick Sharp, who is coveted by many teams.

Raffi Torres and Jarret Stoll remain available at the right price. The Oilers have been receiving calls for the forward pair from several teams.

The Blackhawks did "sniff around" Anaheim Ducks defenceman Mathieu Schneider during the last few weeks, but truth is they're going to save their money and try to sign Wade Redden of the Ottawa Senators next year when he's an unrestricted free agent. Redden is eight years younger.

The Philadelphia Flyers have had internal discussions about a possible outdoor game to be played at Penn State University's Beaver Stadium. The Pittsburgh Penguins are interested, and this could become an annual event. "We've talked to the Pittsburgh guys and they're going to noodle it around," Flyers president Peter Luukko said. "They're doing the one this year so they want to see how that goes." Source

Canucks putting package for Satan, Demitra shopped?

According to an NHL source, the Vancouver Canucks could be putting a package together to get Miroslav Satan from the New York Islanders. GM Garth Snow has made it known that Satan could be available at the right price. It is believed the Islanders would like immediate scoring help, something the Canucks currently do not have.

Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun is reporting that the Minnesota Wild would like to move Pavol Demitra. Demitra is due to be a UFA next summer.

Garrioch is also speculating that the NHL will consider an 84 game schedule, with the two extra games to be played in Europe. Source

The St. Louis Blues could be moving a defenseman in the very near future. They currently have seven defenseman on the roster, with several more NHL-ready prospects in the minors. Source

There are also rumors that the Blues would like to sign UFA Teemu Selanne. They believe that he would fit in perfectly with his old teammates and friends Paul Kariya and Andy McDonald.

According to the Toronto Star, a Russian tycoon has hired former NHLP executive Bob Goodenow to help create a new professional European hockey league. Alexander Medvedev, deputy executive of Russian energy giant Gazprom, is behind the new league, which also has former NHL star Igor Larionov on a ''working group'' to help start the league. It's also believed Scotty Bowman is consulting the venture. The league, tentatively called the "Open Russian Hockey League", or ORHL, could start as early as September 2008. Source

Three teams interested in Raycroft, possible Wild moves?

According to TSN's Darren Dreger, three teams have expressed an interest in Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Andrew Raycroft. During the first period intermission of Friday's Thrashers-Maple Leafs game, Dreger stated that the Pittsburgh Penguins, Tampa Bay Lightning and LA Kings have interest in Raycroft.

There are rumors that the Minnesota Wild are shopping Matt Foy. Foy does not want to return to the AHL and there appears to be a logjam in the Wild roster with the emergence of Aaron Voros. Source

Anaheim Ducks GM Brian Burke has said he will make one more "small" move after the holidays to free up more "tagging room" to re-sign forward Corey Perry.

Brochu's European round-up:

Forward Gregg Johnson has been released from his contract with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers (New York Islanders AHL affiliate) and has signed with SaiPa Lappeenranta of the SM-Liiga in Finland. Source

Goaltender Miroslav Kopriva has left the Austin Ice Bats of the CHL (another great hockey team name) and has signed with HC Kladno of the Czech Extraliga. Kopriva was a prospect for the Minnesota Wild organization. Source

McDonald for Weight - official

The Anaheim Ducks have traded centre Andy McDonald to the St. Louis Blues for Doug Weight. McDonald is scheduled to make $3.33 million this year and next year while Weight is making $3.5 million. The Ducks have now cleared around $2.5 million of "tagging room" from next years cap. More deals could be in store tonight. More details to come.

7:45 pm EST update! St. Louis Blues President John Davidson announced today the team has acquired forward Andy McDonald from the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for Doug Weight, Michal Birner and a 7th round draft choice in 2008. Source

Leksand talking to Selanne

According to Swedish website expressen.se, Leksands IF is heavily pursuing Teemu Selanne. Selänne had lunch with Leksand majority owner Per Olof Ejendal last Monday and Ejendal expressed to him that Leksand will do anything to get him to play for their team. "I have consulted about the Finnish player (Teemu Selänne). I'm positive that he will consider the offer." said Ejendal. Source

The Anaheim Ducks trade watch continues into day 9. Scott Niedermayer is expected to return on Sunday, so something must be done before then. There are rumours that Todd Bertuzzi has also been available in negotiations.

The Dallas Morning News Stars Blog reports that 5 teams were scouting the Dallas Stars-LA Kings on Thursday. These teams were the Atlanta Thrashers, Columbus Blue Jackets, Florida Panthers, Montreal Canadiens and Pittsburgh Penguins.

Montreal Canadiens forward Michael Ryder was a healthy scratch on Thursday. Could he be headed to the Stars?

The saga of goaltender Dan Cloutier, firmly entrenched in the minors in Manchester, N.H., took another turn when LA Kings President and General Manager Dean Lombardi and assistant GM Ron Hextall met with Cloutier and a doctor over the weekend. This resulted in a bit of a last-ditch move for the struggling goalie, who hasn't been right since hip surgery. "They say he's been at about 80%, in and out of the lineup, and we're going to shut him down for at least six weeks," Lombardi said Wednesday in Chicago. Source

Mike Richards signs 12-year contract extension

Mike Richards has signed a 12-year,$69 million contract extension with the Philadelphia Flyers. The yearly salary cap hit is $5.75 million. Source

Rexall founder and chairman Daryl Katz has made a new offer to purchase the Edmonton Oilers, according to a statement released on Thursday. Sources familiar with the bid say it's an offer for shares with an asset purchase value of $188 million. Source

The International Ice Hockey Federation announced Thursday that its member associations and leagues will exercise the option to re-open the player transfer agreement with the National Hockey League. According to a statement released by the Federation, representatives from the Czech Republic, Germany, Finland, Slovakia, Sweden and Switzerland made the decision unanimous. The NHL has also announced to end the agreement and both sides will meet in New York in January. Russia is not sending representatives to the meeting. Source

Pittsburgh looking for goaltending?

Pittsburgh Penguins goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury will miss six to eight weeks with a high ankle sprain injury. Coach Michel Therrien does not expect the club to add another goaltender, but rumors are flying that the Pens may take another look at UFA Curtis Joseph. There's also speculation that the Penguins have called the Toronto Maple Leafs about veteran Scott Clemmensen, who is playing with the Leafs AHL affiliate Toronto Marlies. Source

According to the San Jose Mercury News Sharks Blog, scouts from three teams were at the San Jose Sharks-Minnesota Wild game on Tuesday. These teams were the Atlanta Thrashers, Detroit Red Wings and Toronto Maple Leafs. Source

Boston Bruins goaltender Manny Fernandez had knee surgery on Wednesday and will most likely be out for the rest of the season. Source

On Craig Custance's Thrashers Blog on the Atlanta Journal-Constitution website, the recent move of placing forward Darren Haydar on waivers (he has since cleared) has created "flexibility" for GM Don Waddell. This could mean bringing up another player from the AHL or creating a roster spot for a player acquired via trades. Source

According to the 110% radio show on TQS in Montreal, a Quebec billionaire is interested in buying the Montreal Canadiens. Citing a source, the billionaire would want more players from Quebec and Canada to play for the team. Jean Perron is also stating that current owner George Gillet persuaded GM Bob Gainey to stay on, as Gainey wanted to step down after the disappearance of his daughter.

Poll Results:

Who will be the next NHL coach to be fired?

Paul Maurice	90 (32%)
Michel Therrien	56 (20%)
Jacques Martin	9 (3%)
Marc Crawford	34 (12%)
Mike Keenan	78 (28%)
Other	10 (3%)

Total Votes: 277

Montreal/San Jose rumours run wild

Various sources on the internet have confirmed of trade rumors of a Montreal Canadiens and San Jose Sharks blockbuster deal. A Montreal Gazette columnist is citing TSN's Bob McKenzie about a deal involving an exchange of Saku Koivu and Michael Ryder for Patrick Marleau and Steve Bernier. Other radio reports in Montreal suggest Joe Pavelski could be involved.

Other names that have been tossed around the rumour mill are Francis Bouillon, Jaroslav Halak and Kyle McLaren. Source

The Anaheim Ducks trade watch continues into day 8. A trade looks to be imminent according to the Ducks official NHL website. According to Marty York of Metro News, the Ducks have also come to a "verbal agreement" with UFA Teemu Selanne, and will likely return sometime after the new year. Source

The Puck-rakers blog on the Columbus Dispatch website is speculating that now is a perfect time for a big Blue Jackets trade. Writer Aaron Portzline is reporting that defenseman Ron Hainsey and goaltender Fredrik Norrena may have some value to NHL teams to bring back scoring in the Columbus lineup.

Las Vegas remains hot on the rumor mill to land an NHL expansion franchise. According to one source long connected with league dealings, the fee will be some $300 million - more than three times the asking price prior to the CBA fixing player salaries. Hollywood's Jerry Bruckheimer, producer of such hits as "Top Gun" and "Pirates of the Caribbean," is the rumored money man for a franchise that could open for business in 2009-10. Source

Ducks trade watch, day 7

The Anaheim Ducks trade watch continues. According to Bob McKenzie of TSN, the most likely return for Scott Niedermayer would be Sunday for the game against the San Jose Sharks. GM Brian Burke has until then to free up around $900,000 from next year's salary cap. McKenzie is saying that "Burke is sitting on some deals that could be done in a heartbeat. He could move veteran Defenceman Sean O'Donnell for a draft pick or package defenceman Shane Hnidy and forward Brad May and the financial issues would be solved. But Burke is entertaining the idea of a "hockey trade" that would improve the Ducks and defenceman Mathieu Schneider would be part of that were it to happen." Source

Randy Youngman of the OC Register is reporting that Burke has been talking trade with the Florida Panthers, Atlanta Thrashers, Chicago Blackhawks and Caroline Hurricanes. He's also reporting a rumor that the New Jersey Devils are interested in Schneider. Source

The Ducks announced on Monday that they have signed defenseman Bruno St. Jacques to a one-year contract. Subsequently, St. Jacques was recalled from the Portland Pirates, Anaheim’s AHL affiliate. Source

With the sale of the team official, the Nashville Predators are moving forward with their hockey team. This could mean several trades to improve their team, as the Predators have been looking for better goaltending. A few hours before announcing the sale had closed, Predators Holdings Chairman David Freeman said GM David Poile would soon have more freedom to move forward with other contract negotiations, explore trade opportunities and establish future payroll. Source

Goaltender Fred Brathwaite has left the Atlanta Thrashers AHL affiliate in Chicago and has been suspended by the organization. It's believed he received an offer to play in Russia. There are rumours that he may return to his old RSL team, Aq Bars Kazan. Source

Brochu's fantasy and injury update:

Vancouver Canucks goaltender Roberto Luongo may miss several games with a rib contusion he suffered several weeks ago.

Tampa Bay Lightning forward Brad Richards suffered a leg injury in the game against the Toronto Maple Leafs Monday and will be re-evaluated tomorrow.

Roy, Battaglia waived, Philly/Dallas trade

The Philadelphia Flyers dealt defenceman Jussi Timonen to the Dallas Stars on Monday for a conditional draft pick in 2009. Timonen has been assigned to Dallas' AHL affiliate in Iowa. Source

The Toronto Maple Leafs have placed forward Bates Battaglia on waivers.

The Edmonton Oilers have put defenseman Mathieu Roy on waivers.

Canucks-Islanders talking?

Assistant GM Steve Tambellini is currently on a four game swing with the New York Islanders, part of a father-son road-trip the Islanders are having. Although he is going only as the father of Jeff Tambellini, this has not stopped rumors that he may be doing some advance scouting for the Canucks. According to an NHL Source, GM Dave Nonis has inquired about the availabilty of several players, including impending UFAs Miroslav Satan and Trent Hunter. GM Garth Snow has not decided if these players will be available at the trade deadline. Source

Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun is reporting that the Edmonton Oilers and Carolina Hurricanes are interested in Ottawa Senators defenseman Joe Corvo. GM Bryan Murray has worked the phones last week seeking a player to jumpstart his team. Source

Brochu's European round-up:

Defenseman Jame Pollock has left the AHL Hershey Bears and signed with CSKA Moscow of the Russian Super League. He has been suspended by the Washington Capitals, but due to the lack of a transfer agreement between the NHL and Russia, he is free to join his new club. Source

Slovak defenseman Richard Stehlik has been rumored to be leaving the AHL Milwaukee Admirals and signing with HC Sparta Prague in the Czech Extraliga. The Nashville Predators are meeting with him and a decision should be finalized next week. Source

Marleau to Toronto?

The following rumours are from Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun:

Toronto Maple Leafs GM John Ferguson Jr. has inquired about Patrick Marleau. The San Jose Sharks are believed to be shopping him. Marleau's no-movement clause kicks in on Jan 1, 2008.

There are whispers the Ottawa Senators contacted the Pittsburgh Penguins about Gary Roberts or Colby Armstrong a month ago. The word is Pittsburgh wanted Antoine Vermette in return because the team is looking for a winger to play with Sidney Crosby. Pens GM Ray Shero believes Vermette could be a nice fit.

Jarret Stoll's name has been tossed around in the rumor mill, and it looks like the latest rumor has him sent to the Columbus Blue Jackets for Gilbert Brule. The Edmonton Oilers made Stoll a healthy scratch on Friday.

The Montreal Canadiens are "sniffing" around to see if there is a market for Cristobal Huet.

Marc Crawford's tenure as LA Kings head coach could be on thin ice. Rumour has it Kings GM Dean Lombardi is feeling pressure from ownership to get results and Crawford might not be the right fit for young players.

The Detroit Red Wings and Ottawa Senators could be preparing trade offers for Marian Hossa if the Atlanta Thrashers don't sign him to an extension.

The Thrashers have claimed Mark Recchi on re-entry waivers from the Penguins.

Anaheim Ducks trade watch, Tampa/Dallas blockbuster?

According to Darren Dreger of TSN, the Dallas Stars have been looking for a superstar talent and they have targeted Martin St. Louis of the Tampa Bay Lightning. The Lightning are looking for quality goaltending, and there are rumors that Marty Turco could go the other way.

The Anaheim Ducks trade watch continues. Sportsnet's Hockeycentral panel is reporting that the Chicago Blackhawks have been kicking the tires on acquiring Mathieu Schneider. Also, the Ducks could free salary cap space by shipping Andy McDonald to another team, possibly to the Pittsburgh Penguins.

In other Ducks news, could there be a deal between the Ducks and Atlanta Thrashers? GM and coach Don Waddell and Anaheim GM Brian Burke are friends, and the Thrashers need another defenseman. "Brian is one of the guys I talk to most in the league about many things," Waddell said. "They're just another team that we continue to talk to. At this point we're happy with our group." Waddell indicated that any trades would likely involve prospects or draft picks, which are a commodity in the salary-cap era. Source

The Minneapolis Star Tribune is reporting that the Minnesota Wild could trade one of their defenseman to solve their roster issues. Keith Carney, Kurtis Foster and Petteri Nummelin could become trade bait for teams looking for blueline depth. Source

Torres and Stoll healthy scratches, trade imminent?

Edmonton Oilers forwards Jarret Stoll and Raffi Torres will be healthy scratches for tonight's game against the St. Louis Blues. Torres will end his iron-man streak at 215 games. There has been speculation that both players were being shopped and a trade could be imminent. There were rumours that both players could be headed to Montreal. Source

Various sources have confirmed that the Nashville Predators have signed David Legwand to a six-year, $27 million contract extension.

Mark Recchi has been called up on re-entry waivers by the Pittsburgh Penguins, where it's expected a team will pick him up. The most likely teams to pick him up are Washington, Edmonton, Philadelphia, Carolina and Dallas.

NHL trade rumors from Marty York

The following rumours are from Marty York of Metro News:

The Colorado Avalanche have had it with the inconsistent goaltending of Jose Theodore and Peter Budaj and are in trade talks with several teams, including the Ottawa Senators. The Sens have lost confidence in Martin Gerber but Avalanche execs consider him an upgrade over Theodore and Budaj, making a Colorado-Ottawa trade a possibility.

The Edmonton Oilers won't publicly say Dwayne Roloson has been demoted but they believe he's regressed and are relying more on their so-called backup, Mathieu Garon.

Several teams have turned down offers from the Tampa Bay Lightning concerning goalie Marc Denis. Denis has been shopped all season, but no one wants his contract. The Colorado Avalanche have already told the Lightning that they are not interested.

York is reporting that Washington Capitals forward Michael Nylander may be hiding an injury and could miss a few games. He is also reporting that the bad ice in Washington could explain some of their failures.

The NHL will no longer subsidize an annual road trip in which the fathers of players joined their sons, a trip that many teams are doing this season. Joe Bowen, the Toronto Maple Leafs play-by-play announcer, said the NHL decided to count the fathers’ trips against the clubs’ salary caps, which ultimately meant they could not happen any more.

Mark Recchi has cleared waivers and assigned to the Pittsburgh Penguins AHL affiliate in Wilkes-Barre. It's expected that he will be recalled soon on re-entry waivers.

The Anaheim Ducks have already received offers for their players. According to The Globe and Mail, the Ducks need to free up only around $1 million in "tagging room" for players under contract for 2008-2009. "We have an offer," GM Brian Burke said. "I could hang up this phone and fix this right away. We're trying to make the best hockey deal we can make. We're not in a bind at all. Of the 29 teams — we don't talk to Edmonton - so of the 28 other teams, there's plenty of interest in making this predicament go away." Source

The Phoenix Coyotes have traded goaltender Alex Auld to the Boston Bruins in exchange for forward Nate DiCasmirro and a fifth round draft choice in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.

Hawks interested in Schneider?

According to the Daily Herald, the Chicago Blackhawks are looking for a top-two defenseman. They've been working the trade phones looking for a veteran presence who can swallow up a lot of critical minutes. It's believed that the Hawks are willing to package a prospect or two because there is a logjam of NHL-ready players in their system. There's a rumor from Anaheim that the Ducks have asked for defenseman Cam Barker and forward Michael Blunden, in exchange for Mathieu Schneider. Source

Bob McKenzie of TSN is reporting that the Ducks have 21 days or less to allow Scott Niedermayer to practise with the team while still remaining suspended. This means the Ducks have the same time to make a trade so they will have enough "tagging" room in the salary cap next season. McKenzie is also speculating that the Blackhawks could be interested in Schneider. Source

On CBC's news program The National, it was revealed that former Vancouver Canucks head coach Marc Crawford may have "ordered" actions against Steve Moore on the night of March 8, 2004. In court documents obtained by CBC, it's alleged that Crawford told his players "(Moore) must pay the price" after pointing to Moore's name and number on a board in the dressing room. The documents indicate that both Todd Bertuzzi and Canucks current general manager Dave Nonis confirmed Crawford made the threat. Nonis was the director of hockey operations at the time of the incident. Source

Mark Recchi has cleared waivers. There's rumors that he may be bought out by the Pittsburgh Penguins or brought back up on re-entry waivers, hoping another team will pick him up at half his salary. The Calgary Flames are said to be interested in picking up the veteran forward.

Scott Niedermayer will return, Stoll on the block

Various sources have confirmed that the Anaheim Ducks have called a press conference for 6:30 PM PST where it's expected they will announce that Scott Niedermayer will return for the remainder of the season.

TSN's Ice Chips feature is reporting that Edmonton Oilers centre Jarret Stoll is rumored to be on the trading block.

Poll Results:

Which Canadian team has been the most impressive so far?

Calgary Flames	10 (2%)
Edmonton Oilers	21 (5%)
Montreal Canadiens	77 (18%)
Ottawa Senators	183 (44%)
Toronto Maple Leafs	14 (3%)
Vancouver Canucks	102 (25%)

Total Votes: 407

Possible Recchi destinations, Rangers interested in Krajicek?

Darren Dreger of TSN is reporting that both Dallas and San Jose expressed interest in trade discussion with Mark Recchi, and may pick him up off waivers. If he clears waivers, it is believed Recchi will fulfill his obligation and report to the AHL farm team in Wilkes-Barre. Another possibility is that the Pittsburgh Penguins could call him up on re-entry waivers, when teams such as Carolina would be interested. The final option is to buy out Recchi's contract and make him an UFA. Source

According to a source in New York, the Rangers may have interest in Vancouver Canucks defenseman Lukas Krajicek. GM Dave Nonis has reportedly turned down offers, but may change his mind as the trade deadline approaches. The Rangers believe Krajicek would fit in well with the Czech contingent on their team.

Jeff Gordon of STLtoday.com wonders if the St. Louis Blues and Florida Panthers would make good trade partners. The Blues have surplus defenseman, and the Panthers have been looking for blueline help all season. Source

The Colorado Avalanche have placed Wyatt Smith on waivers.

Jakub Klepis has left the AHL Hershey Bears and returned to Europe. Klepis has received offers from Switzerland, Russia and his home country, the Czech Republic. He was signed to the Washington Capitals affiliate on a professional try out contract. Source

Big rumour update, part 2

According to Bob McKenzie of TSN, sources close to Scott Niedermayer suggest he is prepared to return to the NHL team in the near future, possibly at the end of this week. The Anaheim Ducks have to clear space for Niedermayer for this year and next year, even if Niedermayer does not play the 2008-2009 season. Multiple NHL sources have confirmed that the Ducks have been trying to free up this "tagging" room by having trade talks all this week. Sources suggest that any defensman not named Chris Pronger could be moved, including Mathieu Schneider, Francois Beauchemin and Sean O'Donnell. Source

Eric Duhatschek of the Globe and Mail suggests that the Ducks could unload Todd Marchant and his $2.157 million contract by enticing other teams with a draft pick. Source

Various sources have confirmed that the Pittsburgh Penguins have placed Mark Recchi on waivers. There are rumors that the Islanders may be interested.

The Islanders blog on Newsday is speculating that the New York Islanders could package prospect Jeff Tambellini and a spare defenseman for a proven scorer or a top prospect. The Islanders are in a scoring slump, having scored 2 or less goals in their last 13 games.

Big rumour update, part 1

There are lots of trade rumours flying around lately, so stayed tuned for part 2 later today.

Marty York of Metro News is reporting that sources are saying that the Ottawa Senators are dangling Joe Corvo, Antoine Vermette and Andrej Meszaros to teams such as the Colorado Avalanche and Florida Panthers.

The Calgary Flames are looking for something to shake up their hockey team, and York is saying they may consider making a trade or two before firing coach Mike Keenan.

In an interview with the Dallas Morning News, Daryl Sydor of the Pittsburgh Penguins admits he has heard rumors of the Penguins trying to trade him. "They know I'm not happy," Sydor said. "They got me here for a reason, and I'd like to help them. But that's not working out right now, and I don't think they can have my contract and a healthy scratch." Source

In other Penguins news, Scott Burnside of ESPN is reporting that GM Ray Shero have told UFA goaltender Curtis Joseph that they are happy with Dany Sabourin and Marc-Andre Fleury, at least for the time being.

Burnside is also reporting that the Anaheim Ducks may have interest in Mark Recchi, who is still being shopped by the Pens. Source

Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal wonders if a package of Jiri Hudler, Jakub Kindl and a 2nd rounder in 2008 from the Detroit Red Wings could pry Mats Sundin from the Toronto Maple Leafs, if Sundin becomes available. Source

The NHL has reportedly put the Philadelphia Flyers on notice. The league handed Flyers forward Riley Cote a three-game suspension on Monday for his match penalty following a high head shot to Dallas Stars defenceman Matt Niskanen Saturday night. "I talked to (Gary Bettman) today," Holmgren told the Philadelphia Daily News. "He thinks, like I do, that these are different coincidences, different situations, that have to be viewed differently, but the question was raised about ramifications if it happens again. So obviously we're under watch." No word on yet if Bettman has put the Flyers on double secret probation.

Sunday rumours from the Ottawa Sun

These rumours are courtesy of Bruce Garrioch, hockey writer for the Ottawa Sun:

If the Toronto Maple Leafs are out of the playoffs by the trade deadline, it's possible that Mats Sundin might ask to be traded to a contender. It's believed that the Swedish contingent on the Detroit Red Wings have told Sundin that he would be more than welcome to join them.

There's a chance that Dale Hunter, the coach of the OHL London Knights, could be hired by the Washington Capitals at the end of the season. Garrioch is also speculating that GM George McPhee could be replaced by ex-Stars GM Doug Armstrong.

GM Jacques Martin of the Florida Panthers is looking for a defenseman and a winger. It's believed he is looking at Ottawa Senators forward Antoine Vermette.

GM Jay Feaster is looking to shop Marc Denis, but there haven't been any takers.

Are the LA Kings going to send Rob Blake to a contender before the trade deadline? Sources say he'll likely have the option and many believe if that's the case, there will be several teams calling GM Dean Lombardi.

There's a lot of "talk" that Cristobal Huet will not finish the season with the Montreal Canadiens. He is a UFA at the end of the year.

Ron Wilson on the hot seat?

On the Hockey Night in Canada broadcast on CBC, Al Strachan mentioned during the program "The Hotstove" that San Jose Sharks coach Ron Wilson could be next on the chopping block. Strachan cites three sources that Wilson will be fired and Trent Yawney will be hired as his replacement.

Nick Holden of the WHL Chilliwack Bruins is getting serious attention from both the Colorado Avalanche and Toronto Maple Leafs. The undrafted 20 year old defenseman is having another strong season with the Bruins. Source

Feaster threatens to trade core, Wes Walz to retire

Tampa Bay Lightning GM Jay Feaster has threatened to break up the core of the team if they don't start winning. "Being sub-.500, being 13th or 14th out of a 15-team Eastern Conference isn't cutting it, given the money we lose, to think we're going to keep payroll where it is and not make changes," he said. Feaster added that ownership could be cutting and the core of Vinny Lecavalier, Marty St. Louis, Brad Richards and Dan Boyle could be broken up. The Absolute Hockey group has been stalled in buying the Lightning and management may cut payroll in order to make the team more attractive to buyers. Asked if trades were near, Feaster responded, "by Christmas time, yeah, for sure." Source

Yahoo Sports is also reporting that there is bad blood between defenseman Dan Boyle and the team and he could be shipped out by the trade deadline. Source

The Wild announced Friday night that they will hold a press conference with Wes Walz on Saturday morning, when Walz is expected to announce his retirement after 12 seasons in the NHL. The centre has been on leave for a month. Source

Mark Mowers has cleared waivers and has been assigned to SC Bern in the Swiss Nationalliga by the Anaheim Ducks. Source

Belfour to return to NHL next year

In an interview with Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet, Ed Belfour discusses his decision to play with Leksands IF, as well as his career and life in Sweden. He is hoping to get Leksand back into the Elitserien, and hoping he can get back into the NHL next year.

Yes, my objective is to play in the NHL next year. I want to continue to develop as a goaltender.

I had offers from some NHL teams, but it was not anywhere I wanted to play. I wanted to play for a team that had the opportunity to win the Stanley Cup.

-Ed Belfour

Leksand currently has a 18-1-1 record, enjoying an eight-point advantage over second-place Rögle BK Ängelstad and an 11-point cushion over the Malmö Redhawks. Source

The NHL board of governors have officially approved of a new schedule, which is essentially the same schedule as the pre-lockout years. Each team will play each other at least once, and there will be less divisional games. The governors also approved of the sale of the Nashville Predators to the Freeman-Del Biaggio group. The meetings will conclude Friday.

According to Sportsnet, Mark Recchi could be returning home to BC. The Pittsburgh Penguins are actively shopping the forward, and the Vancouver Canucks may be interested. The most likely destination for Recchi is still Columbus, due to his familiarity with coach Ken Hitchcock.

With Sweden pulling out of the NHL-IIHF transfer agreement, there are rumors that the Czech Republic could do the same. Teams in the Czech Extraliga are also upset with the low transfer fees.

Ryder for Stoll?

According to cyberpresse.ca, Montreal Canadiens GM Bob Gainey has recently returned from a scouting trip to Western Canada. It's believed that he was looking at Edmonton Oilers forward Jarret Stoll in particular. There's a trade rumor coming from Montreal that he could be acquired in exchange for Michael Ryder. Both Ryder and Stoll have struggled this season. Source

After a meeting in Stockholm on Wednesday between team officials in the Elitserien and the Svenska Hockey Ligan, the Swedish hockey clubs have decided to withdraw from the NHL-IIHF transfer agreement as of January 1. In the end, the Swedish clubs were unhappy with the low transfer fees and the two year signing window for junior players drafted by NHL teams. This could mean a decrease in the amount of Swedish players drafted by NHL clubs, as well as Swedes playing in the league. A similiar decrease has already happened with Russian players. Source

The NHL may not allow its players to participate in the 2014 Olympics in Sochi, Russia. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman was interviewed Tuesday and expressed doubt that the Winter Olympics will have NHL players after 2010. "It is a strain on the players, on the schedule and on our fans here,'' Bettman told Reuters. ''It has an impact on the momentum of the season and the benefits we get tend to be greater when the Olympics are in North America than when they're in distant time zones." Source

The San Jose Sharks have placed forward Tomas Plihal on waivers. Source

Sydor to Columbus rumors heating up

According to the Columbus Dispatch "Puck-rakers" blog, the Blue Jackets have had scouts at the last two Pittsburgh Penguins games. Pittsburgh and Columbus do not play against each other this season. The Blue Jackets may be having a close look at defenseman Darryl Sydor.

Six teams were scouting the New York Rangers-Dallas Stars game last Sunday. The teams were the Anaheim Ducks, Detroit Red Wings, Montreal Canadiens, Nashville Predators, Philadelphia Flyers and Vancouver Canucks.

Sweden may pull out of the NHL transfer agreement. There will be a meeting in Stockholm on Wednesday between Swedish Elite League owners, and many think that the present agreement is unfair. The Swedes have until Jan 1, 2008 to cancel their participation in the agreement. Färjestad general manager Håkan Loob believes that Swedish teams should have more control over the player market. Source

Centre Mark Mowers has been put on waivers by the Anaheim Ducks.

Scott Hartnell has been suspended 2 games by the NHL for his hit on Andrew Alberts.

Fleury for Liles, Ladd available?

Adrian Dater of the Denver Post is reporting that he has a "trade hunch" that the Colorado Avalanche are trying to acquire goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury from the Pittsburgh Penguins. He is speculating that the Avs would send John-Michael Liles the other way. The Avalanche sent two scouts to the Ottawa Senators-Pittsburgh Penguins game last week. Liles will be an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season.

John Forslund of WRAL.com is reporting that the Carolina Hurricanes are desperately looking for a puck-moving defenseman and they may be willing to trade Andrew Ladd to get him. The Hurricanes are looking to change the dynamic of their team, as well as to fulfill their need for a power play quarterback. Source

Jaroslav Modry has been granted a leave of absence due to a serious illness to Modry's father. The LA Kings have given Modrý as much time as he needs as he returns to the Czech Republic to be with his father.

There are rumors that the NHL will take disciplinary action against the Philadelphia Flyers for yet another questionable hit on Monday. Scott Hartnell checked Andrew Alberts into the boards in the Flyers-Bruins game, and Hartnell was assessed a 5 minute boarding penalty and a game misconduct. Alberts left the game with an unspecified head injury and will be evaluated on Tuesday. Source

Leafs talking to Bowman again?

According to Larry Brooks of the New York Post, the Toronto Maple Leafs are talking to Scotty Bowman again. Brooks is saying that "dialogue has resumed between Bowman and the board of Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment aimed at working out a deal so the nine-time Cup-winning coach and one-time player personnel director would become the Toronto club's president and director of hockey operations." Bowman has denied that there were talks earlier this season. Source

Rumours continue to swirl the Leafs as talks of firing the coach and GM intensify. The talk around the league has been that Leafs general manager John Ferguson Jr. feverishly has been trying to make a trade, but the desirable players other teams want have no-trade clauses. Asked if a trade was coming soon, Ferguson responded, "Those discussions are ongoing at a number of levels." Source

Montreal Canadiens captain Saku Koivu is interested in becoming an owner of TPS in Turku, Finland. Koivu started his career with TPS before coming to the Canadiens. TPS play in the SM-liiga.

Oilers looking at Kolzig, Leafs lining up GMs?

All the following rumors come from the one and only, Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun:

Olaf Kolzig is being "coveted" by the Edmonton Oilers to shore up their goaltending. Kolzig will be UFA at the end of the season. Garrioch claims the Oilers are unhappy with the performance of both Mathieu Garon and Dwayne Roloson.

If Toronto Maple Leafs GM John Ferguson Jr. is fired this season, Leafs management will be seeking star power for his replacement. Garrioch is reporting that an NHL executive told him that "if they're going to put somebody into that seat who hasn't done it before, they need to have a marquee name." Mark Messier, Steve Yzerman, Ron Francis and Glenn Healy are considered to be top candidates for the job.

GM George McPhee of the Washington Capitals may be the next on the chopping block in D.C. Garrioch is saying "the whisper is owner Ted Leonsis has already initiated the search for a new GM and all McPhee is doing is keeping the seat warm." The list of candidates includes Brian Lawton, and TSN analysts Pierre McGuire and Mike Milbury.

Michel Therrien's days behind the Pittsburgh Penguins bench could be numbered. The talk is players are getting tired of Therrien's constant yelling and screaming. There's talk GM Ray Shero might be willing to take a chance on the AHL Rochester Americans coach Randy Cunneyworth.

The Penguins have quietly been looking for a goalie with Marc-Andre Fleury struggling. The word is they've contacted UFA Curtis Joseph, who's been skating at his Toronto-area home.

Sydor, Recchi to Columbus?

According to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, the Columbus Blue Jackets and Colorado Avalanche each had two scouts in Ottawa on Thursday for the Senators-Penguins game. Columbus is coached by Ken Hitchcock, who has ties with Penguins' veterans Mark Recchi and Darryl Sydor, each of whom was a healthy scratch last night. Source

The Hockey News is reporting that many NHL teams have shown an interest in Swedish forward Fabian Brunnstrom. Scouts are comparing the prospect to Daniel Alfredsson. Under the new CBA, the 22 year old rookie is an unrestricted free agent. Brunnström is currently playing with Färjestads BK in the Swedish Elitserien. The teams that have shown the most interest are the Vancouver Canucks, Edmonton Oilers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Detroit Red Wings and New York Rangers. Source

Forward Johan Ryno has left the Detroit Red Wings AHL affiliate, the Grand Rapids Griffins, and returned home to Sweden to play with Djurgården in the SEL. Ryno could be playing with Djurgarden as soon as next week. Source

Trade winds blowing in Minnesota

GM Doug Risebrough of the Minnesota Wild is not happy about his team, who have lost 9 of the last 13 games. Risebrough wants his team to play a grittier style, which explains his move yesterday. The Wild claimed Todd Fedoruk on re-entry waivers from the Dallas Stars on Thursday, picking up half his salary in the process. In an interview with Star Tribune reporter Michael Russo, assistant GM Tom Lynn said, "The general manager is not happy where we are right now, so he’s made this move (Fedoruk). Some guys will have to step up or there will be other moves.” Source

In other Wild news, Swiss newspaper "Blick" is claiming that Petteri Nummelin has already signed a contract with HC Lugano for next season, and the only question is if he will join the team in the January transfer period. Source

The Washington Capitals have fired head coach Glen Hanlon. Bruce Boudreau, the head coach of Washington's AHL affilate Hershey Bears, has been named the team's interim head coach.

Several sources in Sweden have speculated that Teemu Selanne may be signing with Leksands IF in Sweden. Selänne has been apparently spotted in Leksand, where Ed Belfour is currently playing. Source

Poll Results:

Do you think Peter Forsberg will retire?

Yes	55 (60%)
No	18 (19%)
Don't Care	18 (19%)

Total Votes: 91

Aebischer signs with HC Lugano - official

David Aebischer has officially signed with HC Lugano of the Swiss Nationalliga A. Aebischer has signed a contract that will see him play with Lugano until the end of the 2011-2012 season. The Phoenix Coyotes have officially released him from his contract. Source

According to the Dallas Morning News Stars blog, scouts from 6 teams were at Wednesday's game between the Dallas Stars and Anaheim Ducks. These teams were the Pittsburgh Penguins, Tampa Bay Lightning, Atlanta Thrashers, Ottawa Senators, New Jersey Devils and the New York Rangers. Three of these teams have games against the Stars next week. Rumors of more trades continue to swirl in Dallas. Source

Todd Fedoruk has also been called up on re-entry waivers. The Stars are hoping someone will pick him up.

Jamie McLennan and Tyson Nash have signed with the Nippon Paper Cranes of the Asian League Ice Hockey (ALIH). McLennan had left his team in Russia to return to Canada earlier this season, while Nash remained an unsigned UFA. The Nippon Paper Cranes, who may have the best team name in world hockey, play in Kushiro, Japan. Source

The San Jose Sharks locked up Matt Carle after signing the defenseman to a four-year contract extension worth $13.75 million on Wednesday.

Olli Jokinen rumours redux, Ducks talking to Leafs?

According to the Palm Beach Post, a well-placed NHL source said Tuesday that GM and coach Jacques Martin and captain Olli Jokinen must get the Panthers to the playoffs "this season or one or both are likely to be gone. Jokinen has got to pick up his productivity and leadership and get this team to the playoffs," said the source. The source is also reporting that Martin is having trouble communicating with his players. Jokinen admitted that he was "upset" with his ice time. Source

Anaheim Ducks GM Brian Burke was spotted talking to both GMs John Ferguson Jr. and Peter Chiarelli at the Toronto Maple Leafs - Boston Bruins game on Tuesday. The Ducks have already played against the Bruins and they don't play the Leafs until Jan 9, 2008. Could a trade be close? Source

In other Ducks news, Ryan Getzlaf has been signed to a 5 year, $26.265 million contract extension.

Both coach Glen Hanlon and GM George McPhee are on the hotseat and rumors are flying that they could be the next to get the axe.

Recchi available?

According to PJ Stock on the Team 990 in Montreal, Mark Recchi's days as a Pittsburgh Penguin could soon be over. Recchi has struggled early this season and was a healthy scratch last Thursday. There are rumors that the veterans on the Penguins were unhappy with the move and coach Michel Therrien could be the next NHL coach to be fired this season.

The New York Rangers and the Tampa Bay Lightning will be opening the 2008-2009 season with a two-game series in Prague. The Czech promoters were able to come up with the funds to cover the Rangers' revenue from the one home game at MSG. Source

Darren Pang of Fox Sports Arizona is reporting that Scott Niedermayer may be returning by December 10.

Brochu's European round-up:

Juuso Riksman has left the St. Louis Blues AHL affiliate, the Peoria Rivermen, saying he wants to return to Europe. Riksman has been suspended by the team. Source

Forward Tomas Kana has left the Blues ECHL affiliate, the Alaska Aces, and signed with HC Vitkovice of the Czech Extraliga. Source

Ducks acquire Sutherby, Dallas/Tampa Bay trade

The Anaheim Ducks acquired centre Brian Sutherby from the Washington Capitals for a second round pick in the 2009 NHL entry draft. Source

The Dallas Stars have acquired defenseman Bryce Lampman from the Tampa Bay Lightning in exchange for defenseman Mario Scalzo. There also could be bigger deals ahead for Dallas. Source

The Phoenix Coyotes have placed goaltender Alex Auld on waivers.

Ducks scouting Naslund, McCabe for Hossa?

According to a source who attended the Canucks-Flames game on Sunday night, several Anaheim Ducks scouts were watching the game and keeping a close eye on Markus Naslund. GM Brian Burke is still looking for a top-6 forward and may want to bring in someone that he's familiar with.

Don Brennan of the Ottawa Sun is reporting a trade rumour he heard at the game on Saturday between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Ottawa Senators at the Air Canada Centre. Brennan heard a "juicy" rumor that the Leafs would send much-maligned defenseman Bryan McCabe to the Atlanta Thrashers for Marian Hossa. Source

Todd Fedoruk has been placed on waivers by the Dallas Stars. Perhaps there will be more moves to come as trade rumors swirl around Dallas. Source

Olli Jokinen rumours

According to RDS, TSN and Sportsnet, Olli Jokinen has been shopped by Florida Panthers GM Jacques Martin. It was reported that four teams were contacted, with at least one team in Canada. However, Jacques Martin, Panther's owner Alan Cohen and Jokinen himself have all denied the rumor. Cohen went as far as saying "I'm never trading him." Source

Mattias Ohlund may receive a suspension for his actions on Friday night. Ohlund took a two-handed slash to Mikko Koivu's leg after Koivu tried elbowing Ohlund in the head. It's been reported that the Minnesota Wild forward has a broken fibula and will miss at least a week. There is speculation that the Vancouver Canucks defenseman could receive a 5 game suspension from the NHL. Source

These following rumours come courtesy of the often imitated, but never duplicated Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun:

The Dallas Stars are close to some deals and a name that's been mentioned is Glen Murray of the Boston Bruins.

Calgary GM Darryl Sutter is busy trying to land a No. 1 centre and sources say Sutter has held talks with Sharks GM Doug Wilson about Patrick Marleau. Wilson has maintained he's going to keep Marleau, but situations change. Marleau has a two-year extension kicking in next season that includes a "no-movement" clause, which means if Wilson wants to make a deal he has to do it this year.

Brad Richards being shopped?

According to Jason Gregor on Team 1260 radio in Edmonton, the Tampa Bay Lightning are quietly shopping Brad Richards. Gregor is citing a "good source" that the Lightning are putting out feelers about Richards. Richards has a no trade clause that kicked in last July. Source

Ilya Bryzgalov has been put on waivers by the Anaheim Ducks. Many teams are interested and it's believed that he will not clear waivers and will be picked up by the 12:00 noon EST deadline. The usual suspects are Phoenix, Pittsburgh and Atlanta, with Phoenix as the frontrunner based on need and waiver priority.

The Chicago Blackhawks are interested in Swedish defenseman Johan Akerman. Åkerman played very well for Sweden in the Karjala Cup, and GM Dale Tallon, who was scouting the games in Helsinki, was astounded to find out he was never drafted. Akerman is currently playing for HV71 Jonkoping of the Swedish Elite League. Source

Tallon: Åkerman is really good - smart, one touch passing and with the ability to make correct decisions. He has the tools to play in the NHL.

Expressen.se: How interested is Chicago?

Tallon: We're following him and looks - precise as on other interesting players - most on how we believe that they can come over and make a transition to a smaller rink.

More Duck deals, Keenan to be fired by All-Star break?

*** Trade rumor update 12:30 AM EST ***

Jonas Hiller has been recalled by the Anaheim Ducks and it could mean that Ilya Bryzgalov is on his way out. "I think we will see the last of him in Portland; I think the Jonas Hiller bio will be similar to what we saw with Corey Perry and Ryan Getzlaf," said Pirates coach Kevin Dineen in a recent video interview. This trade may involve Toronto. **3:00 AM EST update ** Bryzgalov may have been put on waivers. Stay tuned. Source

Marty York of Metro News is reporting that Mike Keenan is on the hot seat. According to sources, Keenan’s rigid methods have not been appreciated by the majority of the Flames and that captain Jarome Iginla has confronted, or soon will confront, the coach on the team’s behalf. An NHL assistant coach told York that " If things don’t improve in Calgary, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Mike replaced by the all-star game." Source

The Columbus Blue Jackets acquired defenceman Aaron Rome and left-winger Clay Wilson from the Anaheim Ducks on Thursday in exchange for centre Geoff Platt. All three players have been assigned to their respective AHL affiliates. Source

Erik Rasmussen has signed a professional tryout contract with the New Jersey Devils AHL affiliate in Lowell. Source

Andre Lakos has been assigned to Farjestad of the Swedish Elite League. The Austrian defenseman signed a one-year deal with the Minnesota Wild in June. "He came over with the idea he'd get a shot at the NHL level," said Wild GM Doug Risebrough, adding Lakos' play with Houston in the American Hockey League showed he wasn't motivated to stay here. Source

J. Carter for Kesler?

According to Darren Dreger of TSN, the Philadelphia Flyers are looking for a defensive forward, and Ryan Kesler of the Vancouver Canucks may just be the player. There is rumors that the Flyers would want more in return, likely a prospect from the Canucks system.

Dreger is also reporting that fired GM Doug Armstrong of the Dallas Stars did not go down with a fight. Sources say Armstrong scoured the league until the very end looking for a game breaking goal scorer - including Patrick Elias, Simon Gagne and Martin St. Louis. It is unclear if new GMs Brett Hull and Les Jackson would follow up on these efforts. Source

Krys Kolanos has signed a contract with the Quad City Flames of the AHL. Kolanos had attended the Calgary Flames training camp but did not report to Quad City in October. Source

Phaneuf, Ovechkin reject extensions, Roloson shopped?

Marty York of Metro News is reporting that Dion Phaneuf and Alexander Ovechkin have rejected contract extension proposals from the Calgary Flames and Washington Capitals, respectively. Both players are due to be RFA next summer and could receive lucrative offer sheets from other teams. The Caps offered Ovechkin a five-year pact similar to the deal the Pittsburgh Penguins gave Sidney Crosby ($8.7 million a season), but the sniper is demanding between $9 and $10 million a year. Source

The Edmonton Oilers have called up goaltender Jeff Drouin-Deslauriers from their AHL farm team in Springfield. Both Mathieu Garon and Dwayne Roloson are healthy. This has led to internet trade rumors that Roloson may be on his way out. Source

The Dallas Stars have fired GM Doug Armstrong and appointed Brett Hull and Les Jackson as interim co-general managers. Stars owner Tom Hicks has said that changes needed to be made.

Anaheim Ducks defenceman Maxim Kondratiev has returned to Russia after refusing assignment to the Portland Pirates of the AHL. It is expected that he will play with SKA St. Petersburg in the Russian Super League.

The Florida Panthers have claimed Garth Murray off re-entry waivers from the Montreal Canadiens.

Habs interested in Eriksson?

According to a source, several Montreal Canadiens scouts have been spotted at the Dallas Stars affiliate in Iowa, keeping an eye on forward Loui Eriksson. Eriksson had been a healthy scratch for Dallas for several games and sent down to Iowa for more playing time.

The NHL is looking into an incident involving Sean Avery and Jason Blake that happened on Saturday. The FAN 590 in Toronto reported that an unnamed Rangers player said Avery ignited a scuffle with Leafs forward Darcy Tucker because of insensitive remarks towards Blake. The league is expected to speak with Avery about the incident some time this week, possibly Tuesday. Source

Brochu's European round-up:

Russian Super League team Locomotiv Yaroslavl has offered David Aebischer a contract around $1 million dollars. Aebischer is currently playing for the Phoenix Coyotes AHL affiliate. It's also believed that Swiss Nationalliga A teams HC Lugano and ZSC Lions have shown interest in signing the goaltender. Source

Jason York may be close to signing with Fribourg-Gottéron of the Swiss Nationalliga A. Source

Conroy, Yelle for Holik?

Allan Muir of Sports Illustrated is suggesting that both Craig Conroy and Stephane Yelle of the Calgary Flames could be available. Muir saids Calgary wants scoring and is willing to take a veteran forward with leadership experience and a winning background, someone like Bobby Holik of the Atlanta Thrashers. Sports Illustrated

On Saturday's Hockey Night in Canada broadcast on CBC, a segment called "Hot Stove" discussed various rumours around the league. The segment involved a panel of Al Strachan, Eric Duhatschek and Scott Morrison. These are the topics they discussed:

Strachan believes that if GM John Ferguson Jr. is let go at the end of the season, the Maple Leafs would consider TSN analyst Glenn Healey for the GM job.

Strachan also suggested that the Vancouver Canucks would pick up Richard Matvichuk if he was called up on re-entry waivers. The New Jersey Devils may also try to work out a trade.

Duhatschek suggests that with the Montreal Canadiens' 100th anniversary as an organization occuring in 2009, the All-Star game could be played outdoors. Montreal may also be getting the NHL entry draft and awards show the same year. Source

Brochu's European round-up:

Yanick Le-who? Yanick Lehoux has been suspended by the San Antonio Rampage (Phoenix Coyotes affiliate) of the AHL. Lehoux left the team to sign with Russian club Khimik Mytischy. Source

Konstantin Pushkarev has left the Dallas Stars affiliate in Iowa to return home to Russia. He is believed to have signed a $1 million contract to play with CSKA Moskva (Moscow). This is the second player in two weeks that has left the Dallas organization, as Vadim Khomitski left in October. Source

Expect more of these signings in the future, as there is still no transfer agreement between the NHL and Russia.