Washington willing to trade pick?

The Washington Capitals are willing to trade their first round choice in this year's draft to get some help up front to support Ovechkin and Semin. The Caps are also looking for a true powerplay quarterback, and are preparing a big contract for Sheldon Souray.

There are rumours from league sources that GM Doug MacLean could be fired this week.

The top candidates for the GM job in Phoenix are: Assistant GM Steve Tambellini of the Vancouver Canucks, Assistant GM Jim Nill of the Detroit Red Wings and Pat Quinn. Wayne Gretzky has agreed to stay on as coach.

Reasons behind Julien firing?

Several sources have indicated that Claude Julien tried to make personnel decisions behind GM Lamoriello, especially with decisions in the scouting department. Also, Lamoriello felt the team was getting complacent in their play.

It is rumoured that Julien will stay in the Devils organization in another capacity.