Canucks interested in Sharp, Fedorov to Ottawa?

In an interview with the Vancouver Province, GM Dave Nonis answered a few questions about his under-performing team, while also addressing trade speculation. Here are some of the interesting parts:

Q: All the big moves are at the start of July 1 free agency, not the Feb. 26 trade deadline, and many teams are at or near the $50.3-million salary cap. You're at $47.6 million. How difficult is it to make a significant trade?

A: "It's difficult. There are deals I could make, but they're not good deals. They would either eat up the rest of the cap space or deals that are long and take players into age groups where you don't want them. "I also believe our players are better than they've performed."

Q: Would you throw prospects like Luc Bourdon and Cory Schneider into a trade package for the right player, say a proven top-six scorer?

A: "I don't have a problem doing it, but not just for a UFA [unrestricted free agent]. You're going to set yourself back years. We've improved our reserve list dramatically, but it's nowhere near where I want it to be. Taking players away from that, I don't have an appetite for it unless it brought back younger players that would help long term."

According to a source, the Canucks are also interested in Patrick Sharp of the Chicago Blackhawks. Sharp has been relegated to third line duty in Chicago and can be had for a very low price. Source

Ian Mendes of Sportsnet is reporting on his blog that the Ottawa Senators could bring in Sergei Fedorov at the trading deadline. GM Bryan Murray has admitted that he has thought about Fedorov, but the Blue Jackets are doing well and may not offload the Russian centre if they are competing for a playoff spot. Source

Darren Dreger of TSN is reporting that several teams in the NHL are very close to dealing as the US Thanksgiving weekend approaches. The Anaheim Ducks, Dallas Stars and Vancouver Canucks are shopping for a top 6 forward, while the Edmonton Oilers, Pittsburgh Penguins, Philadelphia Flyers, Carolina Hurricanes and Columbus Blue Jackets are looking for help on the blueline. The Pittsburgh Penguins are also looking for speed up front. Source

In the Montreal-Atlanta game on Tuesday had 15 different scouts watching, along with assistant GM Steve Tambellini of the Vancouver Canucks. Source

Prucha, Montoya available?

Steve Zipay of newsday.com is speculating that Petr Prucha and Al Montoya could be used as tradebait. With Henrik Lundqvist firmly entrenched as the no. 1 goaltender in New York, Montoya could be a very attractive option for teams needing a top young goalie. Zipay is also speculating that Prucha and a pick could pry Dan Boyle of Tampa, who is due to become a UFA after this season. Source

According to sources in Montreal, Jaroslav Halak has asked to be traded and has threatened to leave for a team in Russia.

An update on the Atlanta-Edmonton rumours. The Edmonton Journal is reporting that defenseman Dick Tarnstrom could be on his way out, and the Thrashers and Rangers could be interested in his services. Tarnstrom is earning $2 million and has sat out two of the last three games as a healthy scratch. Source

Oilers and Thrashers talking deal?

The Edmonton Journal is reporting that Atlanta Thrashers director of player personnel, Mark Dobson, has been watching the last three Oilers games. The Oilers need a puck-moving defenceman, among other things. Jarret Stoll seems to be the name coming up most often in rumours. Source

The Thrashers Blog on the Atlanta Journal Constitution is reporting that GM and interim coach Don Waddell has been talking to nine general managers in the last three days. Some he talked to about the coaching search, others about improving his roster. The Thrashers are in need of a defenseman and a centre. It's safe to assume that one of the teams he has been talking to are the Oilers. Waddell is also hoping to get a new contract extension with Marian Hossa, who has recently changed agents. Source

Bruce Garrioch is reporting that the Ottawa Senators and Jason Spezza are close to a long term contract extension. It will probably be in the 6-year, $45 million range, similiar to Dany Heatley's contract. Source

Kiprusoff signs 6 year extension

TSN is reporting that the Calgary Flames have signed Miikka Kiprusoff to a 6 year extension worth approximately $35 million dollars. The cap hit beyond this season will be roughly $5.8 million a year. Sources also say it's heavily weighted in the early years of the contract and that Kiprusoff could retire after the fifth year and it wouldn't cost him significant dollars. Source

Peter Forsberg will be playing for the Swedish National Team in the Karjala Cup in Helsinki from Nov. 8-11. This means that his ankle injury is healed enough for competition, which hints at a return to the NHL after Christmas. Source

Peter Bondra has retired from professional hockey to become the general manager of Slovakia's national team. "I kept it a secret for a long time. They will know overseas only after this press conference," Bondra said, according to a report from the Slovak national hockey association. "I hope I can help Slovakia win another medal at the world championship." The 39-year-old Bondra's contract as general manger runs through 2008, when the IIHF World Hockey Championship will be played in Halifax and Quebec City. Source

The NHL has suspended Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Randy Jones two games for his hit on Patrice Bergeron. Bergeron has been released from hospital with a broken nose and a concussion and details will be released later today. Check back here for updates.

Ducks working on Getzlaf, Perry extensions

The OC Register is reporting that Ducks GM Brian Burke is working on contract extensions for Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry. The Ducks have had preliminary discussions with Getzlaf's representatives, Burke said, and would like to strike new deals with Getzlaf and Perry before season's end. "I've rarely negotiated during the season, but it's a new landscape," Burke said. "Teams don't have a choice now, and there are some perils with that. A player thinks you're not being fair and doesn't perform at the same level, or you think the player is being greedy. Given the two people involved, with Getzy and Corey, I don't anticipate any problem. I think they're both professionals." Source

Daniel Tjärnqvist could be signing with the Kloten Flyers of the Swiss Nationalliga A. Tjarnqvist has had some discussions with the Columbus Blue Jackets, but it has not progressed any further than that. Source

There is a rumour floating around that the Detroit Red Wings and New York Rangers could be playing a game in Sweden for the 2008-2009 season.

Forsberg denies return in November

According to the NHL Blog on expressen.se, Peter Forsberg arrived in the United States Friday on a week long personal trip. He is travelling with Modo's 1996-born youth team. "Foppa" will be attending two NHL games and one AHL game, and will not be meeting any NHL management. "This is a private travel and has nothing to do with my career," Forsberg said. Forsberg also took the time to dispel the rumours in the Canadian media that he will return by November 15. "That is made up information that is disseminated from media to media and is nothing that comes from myself. It does not agree entirely simply," Forsberg said, "My decision will take a while." Forsberg will return to Sweden next week and continue to practise with Modo. Source

According to David Pollak's Working the Corners Sharks Blog, scouts from Washington, Colorado, Philadelphia, Montreal and Nashville were at Saturday's game between the Sharks and Blue Jackets game. Scouts attend most games, but considering San Jose's sluggish start something could be brewing. Source

On the Hockey Night in Canada on CBC broadcast, it was reported that new netting was being tested in warmups and practises, and could be implemented very soon. The new netting for the nets will be more transparent, which will help video review of disputed goals.

Reebok to provide alternate jerseys

Reebok has released a statement about their new uniforms. In the alternate version, one fabric has been replaced with an air-knit fabric and the bead-away water repellency technology has been removed. Both jerseys will continue to offer up to four performance materials, including Reebok's PlayDry moisture-wicking technology and a stretch mesh for increased range of motion and ventilation. This will be conducted at a player-to-player basis. Replica versions will remain unchanged. Source

The Washington Capitals and right-winger Alexander Semin agreed Saturday on a $9.2 million, two-year contract extension. Semin, 23, is earning $1.2 million this season and would have been eligible for restricted free agency in the summer. Instead, he'll make $4.2 million in 2008-09 and $5 million in 2009-10. Source

Vadim Khomitski has informed the Iowa Stars he is returning to Russia. It's believed he has signed with Khimik Mytischy of the Russian Super League. "We brought him back because we wanted to see if he could make it here, but I think it was easier for him to go back to Russia," Stars GM Doug Armstrong said. Armstrong said he didn't want to close any doors with Khomitski, but that he was not sure what this means to any future attempts at have the defenseman try to make the NHL. Source

The Vancouver Canucks have inquired about Patrick Sharp, but the Blackhawks are not interested in making any trades at this point.

Mike Johnson has been sent on waivers by the St. Louis Blues. The Blues need to free up a spot for Erik Johnson, who is coming off IR.

Markov to Russia

Danny Markov has signed a 2 year deal with Dynamo Moscow. The contract contains an out clause if he wants to return to the NHL next summer. However, since there is no transfer agreement between Russia and the NHL, it's conceivable that he could leave at any time and sign with an NHL team. Source

Darius Kasparaitis has agreed to play the rest of the season with SKA St. Petersburg. This has been agreed to by both parties, as Kasparaitis was holding a spot in the Rangers AHL affiliate Hartford, a spot that could have been used by a young developing player. Source

The Florida Panthers signed defenseman Jassen Cullimore on a one year deal Friday and assigned him to their AHL affiliate in Rochester on a two week conditioning stint. Source

The LA Kings have signed forward Dustin Brown to a 6 year, $19.05 million contract extension.

Snow denies Kovalev for Satan rumours

GM Garth Snow has denied rumours of a trade involving Alexei Kovalev and Miroslav Satan. Snow insists Satan won't be traded, but if the Islanders aren't in the running for the playoffs, he will most likely be shopped.

The Maple Leafs are trying to get top prospect John Tavares to play for the Leafs AHL ffiliate, the Toronto Marlies. The rumours were that the Leafs were offering a 3 year AHL contract, and hope that Tavares doesn't sign with whichever NHL team drafts him in 2009. However, numerous AHL and NHL bylaws prevent him from doing this, but it's possible that these could be changed through a majority vote. Source

Darren Dreger of TSN is reporting that GM John Ferguson Jr. is shopping Alex Steen, Matt Stajan and Wade Belak. Source

Mattias Karlsson has left the Ottawa Senators AHL affiliate Birmingham and signed with Bofors IK in Sweden. Source

An update on Tony Salmelainen. Apparently he has signed a one year deal with Yaroslavl Lokomotiv of the Russian Super League for almost $1.5-million. Source

Brian Burke to the Maple Leafs?

According to Howard Berger, Brian Burke may head up the Leafs organization in the near future. Citing sources, Berger insists that Burke wants to work in a hockey-first city and is interested in the Maple Leafs GM job. However, Burke is signed until the end of the 2008-2009 season, and is very happy with his tenure with the Ducks. Burke also has a close relationship with the Ducks owners, the Samuelis. Source

Eric Lindros has all but officially announced his retirement. During the press conference for Paul Kelly's official introduction as the head of the NHLPA, Lindros admitted that his on-ice hockey career is nearly over. Lindros was on the search committee for the executive director and is hotly tipped to be the favourite for the new ombudsman position. Source

According to Bill Watters on AM 640 in Toronto, Mats Sundin should be traded. Watters believes that Sundin would waive his no trade clause if it gives him a chance to win a Stanley Cup. The likely return would be prospect and draft picks. Source

Thomas Vanek has won the Sportsman of the Year award in his native Austria. The award is usually dominated by skiers, and Vanek's achievements will hopefully increase the interest in hockey in that country. Source

NHL stops Wings 84-game schedule plan?

Darren Dreger of TSN is reporting that the NHL stopped Detroit's 84 game schedule proposal, which also contained a clause that capped the preseason games at 6 and a home and away with teams out of the conference. The Red Wings are going to bring up the matter at a later date, but commissioner Gary Bettman is adamant on keeping NHL owners quiet about scheduling matters. Dreger also reports that the Toronto Maple Leafs and Vancouver Canucks are supporters of this new proposal. Source

Tony Salmelainen has left the Maple Leafs AHL affiliate Marlies and returned home to Finland. According to this article, he has been suspended by the Leafs. However, there are conflicting reports to this, and his situation is unclear at the moment. It is possible he may have left due to personal reasons without permission.

David Aebischer has been waived by the Phoenix Coyotes.

Lidstrom close to 2 year extension

According to Aftonbladet, Niklas Lidstrom is close to signing a two-year extension with the Detroit Red Wings. The Norris Trophy winner has been in negotiations with the Red Wings and a deal could be struck soon. "I can a lot well intend myself to extend and to continue after this season. I know myself still fresh in the body and is motivated," said Lidström to the Swedish News Agency. Lidstrom's contract ends after this season. Source

GMs Glen Sather and Don Waddell were recently spotted huddled together in conversation at the Thrashers-Rangers game. Could they be talking about which Hossa brother is better, or is something else brewing?

According to Bruce Garrioch, the Colorado Avalanche and the Ottawa Senators are Peter Forsberg's preferred destinations. Citing "two NHL sources", it's believed that Forsberg would want a 3 year deal at $5 million a year. Garrioch adds that the Detroit Red Wings, Philadelphia Flyers and Vancouver Canucks have a shot at the oft-injured star. GM Bryan Murray has asked fellow Swede Daniel Alfredsson to make a call to persuade Forsberg to join the Senators. Source

Jeff Friesen to Switzerland?

According to the Swiss newspaper "Il Caffè", HC Lugano of the Swiss Nationalliga A is interested in signing Jeff Friesen. Friesen is currently without contract. Source

Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun is reporting that LA Kings GM Dean Lombardi is shopping Alexander Frolov and Dustin Brown in the hopes of landing a goalie.

The Ottawa Senators might be willing to discuss Brian McGrattan with other teams. The Panthers and Oilers are both looking for enforcers. The Panthers have been looking for a tough guy and may be close to getting one soon.

Danny Markov may be signed by tomorrow. The two most likely teams are Boston and New Jersey, although Atlanta remain in the mix.

Garrioch is also reporting that Capitals forward Matt Bradley could be moved. Source

Ducks close to deal?

According to the On the Pond blog in Anaheim, the Ducks could be close to making a trade. The last two Duck games have had scouts from seventeen different teams - Tampa Bay, Carolina, Vancouver, Chicago, Minnesota, Calgary, Columbus, New York Islanders, New York Rangers, Boston, Los Angeles, Pittsburgh, Edmonton, Philadelphia, St. Louis, Florida and Atlanta. On Wednesday, the same scouts were there, with the exception of Calgary. Toronto and Dallas were also represented and Boston had a second scout in attendance. GM Brian Burke had talked of moving Ilya Bryzgalov in the summer and with a healthy Jean-Sebastian Giguere, he may move the Russian goalie for offensive help. LA needs a goalie but inter-divisional trades are rare. Source

The Peoria Journal Star is reporting that Petr Cajanek is on the verge of signing with Ak Bars Kazan of the RSL. The Blues are working out a deal with the Russian club on financial compensation for the winger, who has $2 million left on his contract. Essentially, he is on loan to Kazan until next year, when he will become a UFA. Source

Andy Strickland of ESPN radio in St. Louis is reporting that Tony Amonte is working out in Boston and may be signing with the Chicago Blackhawks.

McCabe to Oilers?

According to a source in Toronto, Oilers Vice-President of Hockey Operations Kevin Pendergast has been to at least two Maple Leafs games recently, and several scouts have been spotted at the games. The Oilers do not play the Leafs this year. It's been speculated that they were having a close look at Bryan McCabe. There is talk of a deal involving Jarret Stoll and Ladislav Smid.

Petr Cajanek looks to be signing in Russia. It's rumoured that he is close to a deal with HC CSKA Moscow. Source

Sandis Ozolinsh has been signed to a professional try out contract with the San Jose Sharks AHL affiliate team, the Worcester Sharks. Also, according to the San Jose Mercury News blog, a San Jose scout was at a Florida-Montreal game Tuesday night and has led to speculation because the Sharks don’t play the Canadiens until March and don’t play Florida this year. Source

Christian Backman available?

According to Andy Strickland on ESPN radio in St. Louis, Christian Backman is being shopped. The big defenseman from Sweden has 1 assist in 5 games with the Blues this season.

Peter Sejna has signed with ZSC Lions in Switzerland. The 28 year old former Hobey Baker Award winner was unable to secure an NHL contract. Sejna played 22 games for the Blues last season, scoring 3 goals and 1 assist. Source

Bob McKenzie of TSN has speculated that Penguins GM Ray Shero is looking to upgrade his goaltending situation. Marc-Andre Fleury's poor play, along with the unreliable Dany Sabourin, seem to be the reasons for this. McKenzie has speculated that Curtis Joseph, Ilya Bryzgalov, Andrew Raycroft, Jaroslav Halak and Martin Gerber could be possible answers to Pittsburgh's goaltending problems. Source

Former NHLer Aleksandr Karpovtsev has left his team Sibir Novosibirsk in Russia. It's believed he has left due to injuries and may retire very soon.

Tjärnqvist to Columbus?

Daniel Tjärnqvist is still looking for a club after turning down Swedish club Djurgården, and could be signing with Columbus. "I have had contact with Columbus for some time. They say that they want to have me, but the terms were not good. Now, my agent will check around in Russia to me. Probably, I will begin in Salzburg. Hardy Nilsson called and said that they had a player with an injured back and needed help immediately." Source

According to William Houston of the Globe and Mail, "speculation has Toronto Maple Leafs general manager John Ferguson fired in November if the team continues to lose more than it wins." One broadcaster says Bowman would jump at the opportunity to run the Leafs if his contract matched that of Bryan Colangelo, who is president and general manager of the Toronto Raptors. (Both Raptors and Leafs are owned by Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment.)
Bowman would want Colangelo’s autonomy and a contract that matched his annual salary of about $3-million. If Bowman took over, he would “clean house,” the source said. Colin Campbell has also been rumoured to be a favourite for the job.

Pierre LeBrun of Sportsnet has listed a long list of potential candidates for the head coaching job of the Atlanta Thrashers. Pat Quinn seems to be the frontrunner, while John Anderson, Randy Cunneyworth, Craig Hartsburg , Mike Sullivan, Robbie Ftorek, Kevin Constantine, Steve Stirling and Peter DeBoer are also in the running.

Hartley fired, Waddell next?

Bob Hartley has been fired by GM Don Waddell of the Atlanta Thrashers. Waddell will be coaching the team on an interim basis until a permanent replacement can be found. Rumours have already circulated that Pat Quinn, Pat Burns and Dave King are leading candidates for the job. Waddell is also not off the hook and could very well be fired soon. Marian Hossa, a UFA at the end of the season, could become the biggest prize at the trading deadline. Source

According to various reports, the rumoured deal between Montreal and Calgary could involve Alex Tanguay and Alexei Kovalev.

Robert Esche has signed with Ak Bars Kazan of the Russian Super League. Esche's agent Rick Curran confirmed that Esche will soon join his new team. “We pretty much exhausted every possibility prior to making a final decision to go to Russia,” said Curran, who became Esche's agent in August. “It's an excellent team, and it will provide him the opportunity to get his game back where he wants it to be.” Source

The Ottawa Sun is reporting that the GM Bryan Murray is interested in picking up Zenon Konopka. Konopka is almost ready to start the season and the Blue Jackets could put him up on waivers soon. Source

The Eagle has landed...in Sweden

Ed Belfour has arrived in Sweden to begin his season with Leksands. He arrived today at the game against Västerås, but did not play. He received a great ovation from the crowd, and spoke with the local media about playing in Sweden. "It's an honour to play for a team like Leksands," Belfour said. "I was intrigued by the challenges, adventures and the possibilities of playing [here]. His playing debut for Leksand IF could be against Växjö on Friday - but most likely against Nyköping at home next Wednesday. Source

The Ottawa Senators have signed Randy Robitaille to a one-year contract. Robitaille must clear waivers because he started the year playing in Russia. Source

According to RDS, there was speculation that the Calgary Flames were interested in acquiring Alexei Kovalev from the Montreal Canadiens.

Doan to Edmonton?

According to Bob Stauffer of the TEAM 1260 in Edmonton, Shane Doan could be moved in the first 40 games of the season. Stauffer is citing a Phoenix source, and it's believed the Coyotes are interested in Joni Pitkanen, Ethan Moreau and Rob Schremp in exchange. He also mentioned a possible swap between Shawn Horcoff and Marc Savard of the Boston Bruins.

The NHLPA has officially nominated Paul Kelly for the position of Executive Director. Source

Former Calgary Flames General Manager Craig Button has agreed to coach three games for the Israeli national junior team on their tour of Winnipeg, Chicago and New York.

Today is Blog Action Day and this year's theme is the environment. Perhaps we should all adopt Scott Niedermayer's efforts and try to protect what we have for the now and the future.

Poll Results:

Where do you think Peter Forsberg will sign?

Colorado	15 (6%)
Detroit	7 (2%)
Modo (Sweden)	7 (2%)
Ottawa	6 (2%)
Philadelphia	17 (7%)
Vancouver	136 (57%)
Other	8 (3%)
Who cares	39 (16%)

Votes so far: 235
Poll closed

Morris to Philly, Shelley to Oilers?

These rumours are courtesy of Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun:

The Philadelphia Flyers are interested in acquiring defenseman Derek Morris from the Phoenix Coyotes. Morris will be making around $3.9 million for the next two seasons. It's believed the Boston Bruins have also called the 'Yotes about Morris.

The Oilers have an interest in Columbus tough guy Jody Shelley, who has been a healthy scratch of late. The Oilers are looking for toughness in their bottom six forwards.

Columbus GM Scott Howson and defenseman Duvie Westcott will speak to NHL director of hockey operations Colin Campbell on Monday to discuss Wescott's crosscheck to Colorado's Scott Parker on Saturday. A suspension seem unlikely, but the league is trying to crack down on stick infractions.

NHLPA down to three candidates

The NHL Players Association has narrowed its search for a new executive director down to three finalists: former U.S. attorney Paul Kelly, NFL Players Association lawyer Richard Berthelsen, and Bill Gregson, president and chief executive of sports store chain Forzani Group. The frontrunner appears to be Kelly, who led the investigation into union founder Alan Eagleson. Source

The Vancouver Police Department has issued a press release stating they will NOT pursue legal action against Jesse Boulerice for his on-ice actions Wednesday night. Boulerice received a 25 game suspension from the league for his crosscheck on Ryan Kesler.

Coach Bob Hartley and GM Don Waddell are rumoured to be fired soon if the Thrashers don't pull out of their losing streak. The Thrashers are 0-5 and are the only NHL team to not win a game this season.

McGillis, Soderberg to Europe

Dan McGillis, who was released from his try-out with the Vancouver Canucks, has signed with Adler Mannheim in the DEL. Carl Soderberg has been loaned by the Boston Bruins to the Malmo Redhawks of the Swedish Elite League. Source

Update on the Peter Forsberg - Dallas rumour. GM Doug Armstrong and Brett Hull were in Örnsköldsvik this week in order to persuade Forsberg to join the Stars. Modo sport manager Ecke Holmberg confirmed that he gave two tickets to the two men and talked to them about Forsberg's future. Asked about Foppa possibly signing with Dallas, Mattias Norstrom responded, "He is more than welcome." Source

According to reports in Minnesota, Wild prospect Roman Voloshenko has left the Houston Aeros (The Wild's AHL affiliate) and has opted to play in Russia.

Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun is reporting that Randy Robitaille may be signing with the Senators. Robitaille was released from his RSL team Yaroslavl Lokomotiv this week, and the Senators want him for depth purposes. The New York Islanders are also mildly interested in signing the Ottawa native. Source

Forsberg back to NHL after Christmas?

According to Aftonbladet, Peter Forsberg will return to the NHL after Christmas. Along with a dozen other teams that are interested, the article states that Dallas could be a possible destination. Ulf Dahlen, the assistant coach of the Stars, and other Swedish players on the team are cited as reasons he may sign there. Source

In other "Foppa" news, Forsberg has started an airline in Sweden. Forsberg, along with twelve of the biggest companies in his hometown of Örnsköldsvik, hopes to bring more flights to O-vik to create more development. Markus Naslund is also involved in the enterprise.

Jamie Rivers, who was suspended by the Montreal Canadiens for not reporting to the AHL Hamilton Bulldogs, has signed with Spartak Moscow of the Russian Super League. Source

A source in Toronto has indicated that the Phoenix Coyotes are interested in Carlo Colaiacovo. Colaiacovo is currently out with an injury.

Pominville rumours heat up

There are rumours that GM Dave Nonis has turned up the burner on acquiring Jason Pominville from the Buffalo Sabres. It's believed that he is offering Luc Bourdon and Matt Cooke. Nonis has recently said that he is looking for help in the top 6, and was quite upset with his team's performance in Thursday's 8-2 loss to the Flyers, calling the effort "lazy and stupid" and adding that if the players "don’t want to work, we’ll find others that will." Coach Alain Vigneault had this to say about Ryan Shannon's demotion: "I'll give you an honest answer," "He doesn't need waivers and we need to move some guys." Source

The ZSC Lions of the Nationalliga A in Switzerland have already started plans for next year and have an offer on the table for Phoenix Coyotes goalie David Aebischer. New CEO Peter Zahner has used his contacts to hopefully persuade Aebischer to come to Switzerland next year, provided he doesn't sign with another NHL team. Source

Ronald Petrovicky has signed with Modo in the Swedish Elite League. Petrovicky has been playing with Dukla Trencin, but will be joining Modo on October 24. Source

Mara, Matvichuk on trade block?

Richard Matvichuk looks to have played his last game for the New Jersey Devils. GM Lou Lamoriello has announced that he will try to trade the defenseman so that he can have an opportunity to play for another team. "We've already talked to (other teams) and more than likely something will be done in the near future," Lamoriello said. Tom Gulitti is also speculating that the Devils could use the $1.368 million from Matvichuk's contract to spend on UFA Danny Markov. Source

Paul Mara may also be on the trading block. Mara has been a healthy scratch for two straight games for the New York Rangers, and seems to be in coach Tom Renney's doghouse.

According to New York sources, Jon Sim will be out for the season with a knee injury.

Jesse Boulerice could be suspended for more than 20 games for his crosscheck on Ryan Kesler. Boulerice received a match penalty for crosschecking Kesler in the face on Wednesday night, and is suspended indefinitely by the league pending review.

Emery being shopped?

According to Slapshot.ch, Ray Emery may be shopped. Emery is currently out with a wrist injury, while the Senators are riding on the hot hand of backup Martin Gerber. The Swiss article seems to be focusing on Emery's off-ice activities as basis for these rumours, so take it for what it's worth. Source

St. Louis are willing to buy out Petr Cajanek, however, they want SC Bern to pay the amount. Bern GM Sven Leuenberger wants to add Cajanek as a replacement to the retired Patrik Stefan. The two parties are still discussing options. Source

Another Scott Niedermayer update...or non-update. In an interview with the OC Register, Niedermayer is looking forward to the Stanley Cup banner unveiling Wednesday night, and it has him thinking about his future: Source

"Yeah, I'm in quite a different situation than I've ever been before," Niedermayer said. "To be able to go there and be a part of putting that banner up to the ceiling, to be there to support everybody who was part of that, is a great moment. I knew it was going to be a big moment, going back to the rink, There will be some different feelings on my part, as to what the future holds."

"I'm going to have to make a decision sooner or later. I don't have a time frame. It's hard for me to judge 'soon' — within two weeks, or two months. I don't know exactly what 'soon' means. I hope the sooner the better, but there still could be some time here."

The Yzerman trade that never was

In a wide-ranging and fascinating article from the Detroit News, the Red Wings management team of Jimmy Devellano, Ken Holland, Jim Nill, Scotty Bowman, and owner Mike Ilitch discuss a variety of hockey topics, including talks of trading Steve Yzerman.

Detroit News: On that subject, how close was Steve Yzerman to being traded?

Devellano: There were talks. Steve Yzerman knows that. I've told him that. But as I told Stevie, even while it was going on, 'Look, Steve, if you're going to be dealt to Ottawa, we have to get something real good now to replace you and a whole lot more for the future.' Ottawa couldn't deliver on it. I don't even think they could pay the contract. Source

In the same article, Devellano is confident that Las Vegas will be an expansion team in four years, and the Red Wings will move back to the Eastern Conference. Apparently, commissioner Gary Bettman has promised the Red Wings will have more games against Eastern Conference teams in the new schedule.

The Ducks could possibly be making a deal in the next few days. Scouts from Chicago, Columbus, Detroit, Nashville, Phoenix and San Jose were spotted at the Duck's AHL affiliate team in Portland. The players rumoured to be involved appear to be Ilya Bryzgalov and Aaron Rome.

Phoenix pick up Meyer

The Phoenix Coyotes have picked up Freddy Meyer on waivers. This should free up cap space for the Islanders, who are expected to sign Bryan Berard shortly.

Jason Blake has been diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia. It's a highly treatable type of leukemia and should not affect his play with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Source

Nolan Baumgartner has been assigned to the minors by the Dallas Stars.

Poll Results:

Who will win the Calder trophy this season?

Nicklas Backstrom	39 (31%)
Jonathan Toews	38 (31%)
Erik Johnson	9 (7%)
Jack Johnson	13 (10%)
Other (leave in comments)	23 (18%)

Votes so far: 122
Poll closed

Do you agree with the Steve Downie suspension?

Yes, he deserved it.	54 (50%)
No, he should get more.	17 (16%)
No, he should get less.	35 (33%)

Votes so far: 106
Poll closed

Canucks being scouted?

According to the San Jose Mercury News, several teams had scouts observing the Friday game between the Canucks and Sharks. The Penguins, Devils, Flames, Red Wings, Stars, Wild, Flyers and Bruins all had scouts at the game. There has been rumours that the Penguins were having a close look at Matt Cooke. Source

Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun is reporting that GM Glen Sather is trying to get Ed Jovanovski out of Phoenix. Jovanovski has a no movement clause in his contract.

Garrioch is also reporting that LA might have a chance of landing Peter Forsberg. Garrioch is citing the close relationship between Forsberg and Kings coach Marc Crawford as a reason.

Garrioch also reports that Toronto may be signing UFA Dave Scatchard, and Pavol Demitra is unhappy with the Wild.

Garrioch is working overtime on the rumour mill, as he is reporting that the Bruins and Devils are interested in signing Danny Markov. Source

Mike Van Ryn available?

Mike Van Ryn was a healthy scratch for the Florida Panthers for Saturday's game and has led to speculation that he could be traded soon. According to the Florida Sun-Sentinel, Van Ryn is in coach Jacques Martin's doghouse and was quite unhappy with the decision. Van Ryn has 2 more years on his contract, and could be attractive to any team looking for a top 4 defenseman. Source

League sources have stated that the NHL is keeping a close eye on "dangerous" players such as Jordin Tootoo, Ryan Hollweg and Derek Boogaard. These players have reputations for questionable play and the league has contacted the GMs in question to warn them that such play will not be tolerated.

Havlat out indefinitely

Martin Havlat will be sidelined indefinitely with a right shoulder injury. "The doctor is quite confident he can come back and play without surgery," GM Dale Tallon said Friday night. "We're going to let it settle down for a couple of weeks and get the swelling and general soreness down." This means Havlat will miss at least 4 weeks. Source

The Edmonton Oilers have signed GM Kevin Lowe to a four-year extension, as per TSN. Lowe and GM Brian Burke of the Ducks have been in a verbal spar over the Dustin Penner affair, and it's been rumoured that the NHL head office has warned Burke about his comments.

David Tanabe has signed a two-year, $1.5million dollar deal with the Carolina Hurricanes.

Patrik Stefan retires from hockey

Patrik Stefan has officially ended his hockey career. Stefan had signed with SC Bern this summer, but after 3 games, he has retired immediately due to chronic injuries. The former no. 1 pick of the 1999 NHL Entry Draft played 455 games, scoring 66 goals and 127 assists with the Atlanta Thrashers and Dallas Stars. "It is hard to make this decision at 27 years old. Nevertheless, I knew that once the time would come, I must make it. But all physicians assured me that it was better for my health, if I carry out this step now." Source

According to various sources, Radek Martinek has signed a three-year extension with the New York Islanders. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Matt Nickerson, who was cut from the Dallas Stars training camp, has signed with Ässät Pori in Finland. Source

Another Forsberg rumour

According to Marty York, the Edmonton Oilers "haven’t give up their pursuit yet of veteran free agent Peter Forsberg." Forsberg won't be returning until the new year at the earliest. Source

The Swiss newspaper "Blick" is reporting that Patrick Stefan may be close to retiring. Apparently, his injury troubles have followed him to SC Bern.

Martin Havlat suffered a shoulder injury in last night's game. It is the same shoulder he had surgery on two years ago. At last report, he was wearing a sling and will go for MRI tests on Friday.

Forsberg update

Peter Forsberg has recovered from his recent surgery and is now practising with hometown team Modo. Forsberg feel no pressure to sign with any team, and want to be 100% before he even considers returning to play hockey full-time. Pierre McGuire of TSN has stated that the Swedish players on the Detroit Red Wings have really pushed for Forsberg to join them, but Forsberg still hasn't made up his mind.

Bryan Berard has not signed a contract with the New York Islanders, but is close to a contract. GM Garth Snow may try to trade one of their young defenseman, such as Freddy Meyer, to make room for Berard. There has been some speculation that the Boston Bruins may be involved. Source

Josef Melichar has signed with Linköpings HC in Sweden. Melichar had been playing with HC Ceské Budejovice in the Czech Republic, but it was only temporary as he was hoping he could sign with an NHL or bigger European team. Source

Heatley, Senators close to deal?

According to TSN and other sources, Dany Heatley may be close to a contract extension with the Ottawa Senators. Talks broke off late Tuesday, but they will resume tomorrow. Heatley has stated he wants the deal done before the self-imposed deadline of Wednesday night. Heatley is seeking an $8+ million a year contract and the two parties seem to be stuck on discussions of a no trade clause and term. Asked if trade was an option, GM Bryan Murray said "I guess anything’s an option." Source

The "Tages-Anzeiger" newspaper is reporting Bryan Muir may be signing with EHC Basel in Switzerland. Muir was released from the Maple Leafs training camp this week. Also, the paper is reporting that David Tanabe will most likely not be signing with Basel, citing a lack of money and Tanabe's wife not willing to move overseas.

According to The Globe and Mail, Glen Sather turned down a five-year contract extension with the New York Rangers during the summer and may be leaving the NHL for good after this season. This could open the door for Mark Messier, who has been campaigning for an executive job in the league. Source

Redden to waive NTC?

According to Marty York of the Metro News, Wade Redden may waive his no trade clause and clear the way for a deal to send him to the Chicago Blackhawks. York cites that "NHL insiders" suggest this may happen soon. Last week, it was revealed that GM Dale Tallon of the Hawks was interested in the Ottawa defenseman. Source

Mike Johnson is having discussions with the St. Louis Blues and a deal may be done very soon.

Hockey Night in Prague?

According to TSN, the NHL could start its 2008-2009 NHL season in Prague, Czech Republic. It's rumoured that the Pittsburgh Penguins and Tampa Bay Lightning would be the participants in a two game series. Officials have spoken to both teams about going overseas. Source

Swiss reports have rumoured David Tanabe to sign with EHC Basel. Tanabe is currently in the Blues training camp. With the injury to Jay McKee, it would seem more likely he would sign with St. Louis then in Switzerland.

Petr Cajanek has been waived by the St. Louis Blues. His $2 million contract will deter most teams, but if he is ever recalled, half his contract will be payed by the blues. The Canucks and Oilers have shown mild interest, but will most likely wait for him to be recalled first. Source