Ruutu on the block, Phaneuf signs?

The Chicago Daily Herald is reporting that centre Tuomo Ruutu could be attractive to many teams at the trade deadline. Ruutu could use a change of scenery and many teams would be interested in a gritty, offensive centreman. Source

There are rumors that the Calgary Flames have signed defenseman Dion Phaneuf to a 6 year, $39 million contract extension. Nothing official has been confirmed, but there is speculation that the contract contains a no trade clause that will kick in in the 5th year of the contract.

Darren Dreger of TSN is reporting on his blog that the Calgary Flames and Florida Panthers have been talking about trading Olli Jokinen, but the Panthers want Alex Tanguay and a young player or prospect.

The Pittsburgh Penguins have acquired forward David Gove from the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for forward Joe Jensen. Source

Various sources are reporting that the Nashville Predators have signed forward Jordin Tootoo to a two year, $1.95 million contract extension. There are also rumours that J.P. Dumont has been signed to a 4 year, $16 million contract extension.

Jeff O'Neill has been practicing with the OHL Barrie Colts and could be signing with a team this year. While he didn’t say whether there were currently any NHL clubs beating a path to his door, he feels something may happen soon. “I’m just going to skate here maybe until the (Feb. 28 NHL trade) deadline, and maybe a decision will come then,” O’Neill said. Source

Vultures circling Toronto, interest in Staios?

The Toronto Star is reporting that there were 18 scouts from 16 NHL teams watching the Toronto Maple Leafs-St. Louis Blues game Tuesday. Mats Sundin remains the subject of trade rumors, and there is speculation that interim GM Cliff Fletcher will talk to Sundin this week about waiving his no trade clause. Source

According to Adam Proteau of the Hockey News, a Western Conference GM stated that Edmonton Oilers defenseman Steve Staios might draw some interest around the league. Source

In other Oiler news, it looks like billionaire Daryl Katz's new $200 million offer to buy the Oilers will be accepted by the EIG board members. Source

TSN is reporting that the Calgary Flames and defenseman Dion Phaneuf are close to a long-term contract extension, with minor details being ironed out. This should put the preposterous Phaneuf rumours to rest. Source

Bob McKenzie of TSN is reporting that Peter Forsberg has given his agent Don Baizley the go-ahead to speak to NHL teams that may be interested in signing the Swedish forward. Source

Brochu's European round-up:

Forward Matt Hussey has left the AHL Lake Erie Monsters and signed with Jokerit in Finland. He was signed by the Colorado Avalanche last summer. Source

Dallas Stars prospect Sergei Korostin has left Dynamo Moskva (Moscow) in Russia and is now playing with the Texas Tornado of the North American Hockey League (NAHL). He was the Stars' third round, 64th overall selection in the 2007 NHL entry draft. Source

Goaltender Maxime Ouellet, the former first-round NHL draft pick, has left Red Bull Salzburg in Austria and signed with the Mississippi Sea Wolves of the ECHL. Source

Aftonbladet in Sweden is reporting rumours that Dallas Stars defenseman Mattias Norström will leave the NHL in 2008-2009 and sign with AIK of the Allsvenskan, the second highest league in Sweden.

The paper is also reporting that Edmonton Oilers defenseman Dick Tarnström will also sign with AIK next season. Source

Waiver wire update

The Carolina Hurricanes have placed forward Jeff Hamilton on waivers.

The Anaheim Ducks have placed forward Maxim Kondratiev on waivers.

Phoenix Coyotes forward Mike Zigomanis has cleared waivers.

Kings fire sale?

The LA Daily Times is reporting that the LA Kings could be conducting a fire sale very soon. GM Dean Lombardi must decide which players are part of his future, and which players could be traded for draft picks and younger players. Defensemen Rob Blake, Brad Stuart and Jaroslav Modry and forwards Ladislav Nagy, Brian Willsie and Scott Thornton are others often mentioned in trade rumors. Michael Cammalleri could be available if the price is right. Source

The Kings have also signed forward Raitis Ivanans to a two-year, $1.2 million contract extension.

New York Rangers GM Glen Sather is actively shopping defenseman Marek Malik, but no teams are willing to meet Sather's demand of a top-four defenseman as the return. Malik has around $950,000 left in salary this season and will be a UFA this summer. Source

The Columbus Blue Jackets have traded forward Jody Shelley to the San Jose Sharks in exchange for a sixth round pick in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. Source

Rumors are flying that the Ottawa Senators are looking to trade troubled goaltender Ray Emery. Emery was fined by the team on Tuesday for showing up late to practise in New York. He was apparently returning from a trip to Las Vegas during the All-Star break.

Waiver wire update

The Phoenix Coyotes have placed Mike Zigomanis on waivers.

Chicago Blackhawks forward David Koci has cleared waivers.

Hossa sweepstakes

The Marian Hossa sweepstakes is about to begin. Atlanta Thrashers GM and coach Don Waddell will attempt to sign Hossa to a contract extension this week, or he will begin to shop the forward. It's believed Hossa has already turned down a 5 year, $35 million contract. The Ottawa Sun is reporting that the Anaheim Ducks, New York Rangers, Ottawa Senators, Philadelphia Flyers, San Jose Sharks and Vancouver Canucks could be interested. Source

The Denver Post is reporting that the Colorado Avalanche should look at acquiring Hossa, while the Toronto Star is saying the Boston Bruins may have interest.

Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun is reporting that Florida Panthers GM Jacques Martin is trying to move defenseman Branislav Mezei and forward Radek Dvorak. Garrioch also claims that league executives insist centre Olli Jokinen will be moved. Source

The Teemu Selanne rumours have finally come true, as the Anaheim Ducks have signed Selanne to a one year, $1.5 million contract. Selanne will receive around $600,000 for the remainder of the season, but performance bonuses could see him earn closer to $2 million. Bob McKenzie of TSN is speculating that the Ducks may have more moves in the future. Source

The Chicago Blackhawks have placed forward David Koci on waivers. The Carolina Hurricanes may make a claim. Also, GM Dale Tallon remains searching for upgrades to his team, and may be making a deal in the near future.

Pitkanen trade bait?

Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal wonders if the Edmonton Oilers should shop Joni Pitkanen. Matheson suggests it would be best to trade Pitkanen for a "one shot scorer" before he hits restricted free agency this summer. Pitkanen could receive $5 million a year on the market. Matheson suggests that the Carolina Hurricanes or the LA Kings could be interested if the Finnish defenseman was made available. Source

Brochu's European round-up:

European club champion Metallurg Magnitogorsk (Russia) will play the NHL-challenger, New York Rangers, in the inaugural Victoria Cup on Wednesday, October 1, 2008 in Berne, Switzerland. The announcement was made jointly by the IIHF and the NHL. The Rangers will also play Swiss club SC Bern in an exhibition match. Source

There are rumours that Darren Haydar will leave the Atlanta Thrashers organization next year and sign with Ambri Piotta in Switzerland.

Jean-Guy Trudel may leave the Peoria Rivermen (St. Louis Blues AHL affiliate) and sign with ZSC Lions in Switzerland.

Canucks being scouted, shopping Bourdon again

According to the Toronto Sun, the Vancouver Canucks are once again shopping defensive prospect Luc Bourdon in order to find a scoring centre. Source

The Vancouver Sun is reporting that seven teams were scouting the Vancouver Canucks-St. Louis Blues game Wednesday night. These teams were the Boston Bruins, Philadelphia Flyers, New Jersey Devils, Tampa Bay Lightning, Detroit Red Wings, Florida Panthers and Pittsburgh Penguins. The Sun is also suggesting that Canucks GM Dave Nonis has been working the phones trying to swing a deal. Rumor has it that Nonis is interested in Vaclav Prospal. Source

The Ottawa Sun is reporting that San Jose Sharks GM Doug Wilson is interested in LA Kings defenseman Rob Blake. Source

The Pittsburgh Penguins have claimed forward Kris Beech off waivers from the Washington Capitals, the fourth NHL team for Beech this month. Beech is quickly earning the nickname "Suitcase". Source

Rumors from...Sweden!

There seems to be a lot of rumours about Swedish players lately, and the Swedish website Expressen.se seems to have it covered:

Peter Forsberg has had no setbacks with his training and is progressing well with his comeback. He's confirmed that he won't be playing for hometown team Modo, considering that the deadline to sign new players for Swedish Elite League teams is January 31. Modo assistant coach Fredrik Andersson is giving Foppa additional skate exercises along with the regular practices.

In other Forsberg news, Detroit Red Wings GM Ken Holland has revealed that Forsberg has turned down the Red Wings twice in the past. In 2005, Foppa chose Philadelphia instead of Detroit, and in February of 2007, the Wings made a push for Forsberg but he ended up in Nashville. Holland remains open to signing Forsberg, but knows that he would prefer to go to Colorado or Philadelphia.

The Red Wings have offered much-hyped Swedish prospect Fabian Brunnstrom a contract. The Toronto Maple Leafs and Vancouver Canucks remain in the sweepstakes, with the Anaheim Ducks making a late offer.

Former NHLer Magnus Arvedson will be an assistant coach for Team Sweden at the LG Hockey Games in Stockholm in February.

Seven scouts from six teams were watching the Columbus Blue Jackets-Chicago Blackhawks game Thursday night. The Colorado Avalanche, Detroit Red Wings, Florida Panthers, New Jersey Devils, Philadelphia Flyers(2 scouts) and the Tampa Bay Lightning were all represented. Source

The Carolina Hurricanes remain interested in Avs defenseman John-Michael Liles, while scouts from the New York Rangers, Toronto Maple Leafs and the Washington Capitals were in attendance at the last Avalanche game. Source

Oilers and Stars talking, Malik AWOL?

Edmonton Oilers GM Kevin Lowe was in the pressbox at the Dallas Stars-Buffalo Sabres game Thursday night. He was sitting with ex-Stars GM Doug Armstrong. Could there be something going on with these two old rivals? The New York Rangers and Minnesota Wild also had scouts at the game, and the Dallas Morning News Stars blog is reporting that the Rangers have been scouting the Stars a lot lately. Source

Rumours are flying that the Columbus Blue Jackets are close to a trade. Talks have surrounded the Detroit Red Wings, Ottawa Senators and New York Rangers. Jackets GM Scott Howson would prefer to deal with an Eastern Conference team, but if the right deal came along he would trade with the West. Source

According to a source close to the Hockey News, Teemu Selanne could be back skating with the Anaheim Ducks as soon as next week. Source

William Houston of the Globe and Mail is reporting that TSN analyst Mike Milbury says Anaheim Ducks GM Brian Burke wants the GM job with the Toronto Maple Leafs and will take it if he is assured he will not see or hear from Richard Peddie outside board meetings. Peddie is the president and chief executive officer of Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, which owns the Leafs. Burke is currently signed until 2009 and is negotiating with the Ducks on an extension. Source

New York Rangers defenseman Marek Malik's equipment was not in his practice locker and could be on the move according to Newsday. "Right now it's just an internal matter," said coach Tom Renney. Asked if he was suspended, Renney declined to answer. Asked if he was still on the team, the answer was: "He's a Ranger." Renney wouldn't say if the defenseman was being traded. Malik is earning $2.5 million this year and has been a healthy scratch for a few games. Perhaps Columbus is interested? Source

The Washington Capitals have re-signed forward Donald Brashear to a one-year contract. Source

Forsberg, Daze updates

Peter Forsberg skated for 85 minutes with Modo on Wednesday and has had no pain in his feet. "The feet feel good.There are no complications or so with the feet," Foppa said. Expressen.se is reporting that Forsberg had actually been secretly practising for a few days last week, so his comeback could actually be further along than first reported. He is still undecided about participating in the LG Hockey Games in Stockholm. Source

Eric Daze will not be trying another comeback. In an interview with RDS, Daze expresses his desire to be involved in hockey, but in a non-playing role. "I am in semi-retirement. I did not take my official retirement, but everyone knows that I withdrew myself." Daze said. Daze currently lives in Chicago. Source

Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun is reporting that Ottawa Senators GM Bryan Murray was close to one or two deals last week, but the trade talks floundered. It's believed that he has been talking to both the LA Kings and the Tampa Bay Lightning. Source

The Denver Post is reporting that there were scouts from both the New York Rangers and Toronto Maple Leafs at the Colorado Avalanche-Nashville Predators on Tuesday night. None of these teams play each other for the rest of the season. Perhaps a trade is brewing? Source

The Washington Capitals have claimed forward Kris Beech off waivers from the Vancouver Canucks. The Canucks have also been talking to the LA Kings about centre Derek Armstrong.

Poll Results:

Should the Toronto Maple Leafs trade Mats Sundin?

Yes	203 (57%)
No	20 (5%)
Who cares?	130 (36%)

Total votes: 353

Wild talking to Panthers?

According to Russo's Rants, Minnesota Wild GM Doug Risebrough has been working the phones and has been talking to the Florida Panthers. Also, Duane Sutter, the Panthers’s director of player development, has been scouting the Wild for at least the last two games. Russo speculates that Olli Jokinen would be a player the Wild would look at, if he was indeed available. Source

According to the Buffalo News, the press box seating chart at the HSBC Arena had two seats reserved for scouts from the Chicago Blackhawks, who played in Phoenix on Saturday. There was also a media pass for Blackhawks GM Dale Tallon at the entrance. Tallon is on record saying Chicago needs a puck-moving defenseman. Brian Campbell, an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season who has cut off contract talks with the Sabres, is a puck-moving defenseman. Source

In perhaps the worst-kept secret in hockey, the Toronto Maple Leafs have fired GM John Ferguson Jr. and hired Cliff Fletcher as the interim GM. Fletcher's job in his 19 month contract is to "clear the deck" and try to make the playoffs, while president Richard Peddie will begin a search for a full-time GM. Speculation remains rampant on the future of captain Mats Sundin, who has been at the centre of trade rumors.

The Columbus Blue Jackets have acquired right wing Mark Rycroft from the Colorado Avalanche in exchange for defenseman Darcy Campbell and center Philippe Dupuis. Source

The Phoenix Coyotes have signed goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov to a three year, $12.75 million contract extension. Source

The Vancouver Canucks have placed forward Kris Beech on waivers.

Fletcher to be hired this week?

The Globe and Mail is reporting that the Toronto Maple Leafs should be making a decision on Cliff Fletcher this week. Rumours are flying that the MLSE board met on Monday to discuss president Richard Peddie's proposal to hire Fletcher as the interim GM. Sources are saying that Fletcher's return to the Leafs could be announced this week. Source

The San Jose Mercury News Sharks Blog, "Working the Corners", is reporting that scouts from four teams have been in the press box for the last two Sharks game, possibly having a look at Patrick Marleau. These teams are the Boston Bruins, Florida Panthers, Montreal Canadiens and New York Rangers. Source

If the Tampa Bay Lightning don't make a playoff push, GM Jay Feaster said it is possible he will have to move some players out by the Feb. 26 trade deadline to lower payroll. He'll most likely look to move defenseman Dan Boyle and forward Vaclav Prospal, who are both due to be UFAs at the end of the season. Source

Peter Forsberg is practising with Swedish Elite League team Modo and may try to play for Sweden in the LG Hockey Games between Feb. 7-10. If he feels healthy enough, Foppa will try to return to the NHL sometime in mid-February. The Philadelphia Flyers and Colorado Avalanche remain the front-runners in the Foppa sweepstakes. Source

Brochu's European round-up:

Goaltender Philippe Sauve has left the Dallas Stars AHL affiliate in Iowa and has signed with the Hamburg Freezers of the DEL for the rest of the season. Source

There are rumours that forward Andreas Karlsson will leave the Tampa Bay Lightning and sign with Leksands IF in Sweden. Source

Bruce Garrioch's rumour round-up

Here is the latest from Ottawa Sun's Bruce Garrioch. He covers a lot of rumours that have been floating around, so here are the ones that are less covered:

The Philadelphia Flyers may try to put a package together to get Mats Sundin from the Toronto Maple Leafs. Citing sources, GM Paul Holmgren would send Jeff Carter and a 1st round pick for the Swede.

The LA Kings are shopping forward Ladislav Nagy, and defensemen Brad Stuart, Jaroslav Modry and Rob Blake. GM Dean Lombardi wants a roster player, prospect and a 1st round pick for Blake's services.

Garrioch is also rehashing the old rumour of the Tampa Bay Lightning sending Martin St. Louis to the Dallas Stars for Marty Turco.

The Carolina Hurricanes want either Ottawa Senators defnseman Joe Corvo or forward Antoine Vermette, but are unwilling to send Erik Cole the other way. GM Jim Rutherford may also consider sending Cole to the Columbus Blue Jackets for forward David Vyborny.

CBC Hotstove and other rumors

On CBC's The Hotstove, the topic of trading Toronto Maple Leafs captain Mats Sundin came up again, with analyst Al Strachan saying Sundin would like to stay in Canada because of business interests. The panel mentioned that the Vancouver Canucks remain in the running.

Pierre LeBrun mentioned that Montreal Canadiens captain Saku Koivu's name has come up in trade rumours, something that hasn't been heard for a few years.

Five teams scouted the Columbus Blue Jackets-Dallas Stars game Saturday. These teams were the Carolina Hurricanes, New Jersey Devils, Philadelphia Flyers, St. Louis Blues and Washington Capitals. Let the rumours fly! Source

Brochu's European round-up:

Dmitri Yushkevich has retired from hockey. The Russian defenseman, who, amongst other teams, played for the Toronto Maple Leafs and Philadelphia Flyers in the NHL for eleven seasons, has left his team Cherepovets Severstal to be with family in North America. He will be looking after his young triplet children after his wife died. Source

CBC Hotstove mentioned that Swedish prospect Fabian Brunnstrom has cut down to 5 preferred teams, 3 of which are the Detroit Red Wings, Toronto Maple Leafs and the Vancouver Canucks. It is believed they have offered a 2 year deal to the young forward. For more on Brunnström, click on the "Brunnstrom" label at the bottom of the post.

Tanguay waives his NTC?

Many GMs around the league are scouting other teams these days, perhaps having closer looks on players that they may want to acquire. Here are some of them:

Calgary Flames GM Darryl Sutter has been on a scouting trip that has seen him cover the Montreal Canadiens, Boston Bruins, New Jersey Devils and the Florida Panthers.

According to Pierre McGuire of TSN, forward Alex Tanguay has agreed to waive his no trade clause. Rumours continue to swirl where Tanguay will end up, with Montreal and Florida being very likely destinations.

Dallas Stars co-GM Les Jackson will be in attendance at tomorrow's New York Rangers-Boston Bruins game, and it was recently reported that the Stars are considering "upgrading the herd." No trade is imminent, but both Jackson and other co-GM Brett Hull are eager to leave their stamp on the team. Source

The Team 1200 in Ottawa is reporting that several Columbus Blue Jackets scouts were watching the Ottawa Senators-Carolina Hurricanes game Thursday.

Marty York of the Metro News is reporting the Calgary Flames and defenseman Dion Phaneuf are close to a 10 year, $63 million contract extension. Source

Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Duvie Westcott has been placed on waivers.

Canucks, Flames scouting Leafs

According to the Vancouver Province, the Vancouver Canucks sent two scouts to the Toronto Maple Leafs-Carolina Hurricanes game on Tuesday. The Calgary Flames also sent two scouts, along with several others from other teams. It's believed that both teams are keeping a close eye on which players will be available, and also keeping an eye on Mats Sundin. The Canucks could fit Sundin under their cap, but would have to trade somebody off the roster to do that. It's rumoured they are looking closely at Alex Steen and Darcy Tucker. There are also reports that they are interested in Andrew Ladd. Source

Sportsnet's Hockeycentral panel adds that the Flames could be looking at Tucker as well as veteran forward Boyd Devereaux.

The Daily Herald is reporting that the Chicago Blackhawks may be trying to trade goaltender Nikolai Khabibulin. However, Khabibulin's large contract and inconsistent play may prevent him from moving. Source

Blackhawks acquire Adams, sign Sharp

The Chicago Blackhawks have signed forward Patrick Sharp to a four-year contract extension worth US$15.6-million. Source

The Chicago Blackhawks have acquired forward Craig Adams from the Carolina Hurricanes for a conditional pick in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. Source

The Blackhawks may not be finished with dealing, and are still looking for that puck-moving defenseman.

Canadiens scouting Flames

It was reported on TSN that Montreal Canadiens assistant GM Pierre Gauthier was watching the Calgary Flames-Minnesota Wild game Wednesday night. Both TSN analysts Bob MacKenzie and Darren Dreger speculated that Alex Tanguay could be headed to the Habs, while Michael Ryder could be the player going the other way.

Peter Forsberg may return sooner that previously reported. Various sources have confirmed that Foppa will try to skate in a week (as opposed to 2-3 weeks) and try to play for the Swedish National Team in the LG Hockey Games tournament in Stockholm from Feb 7-10. "If he's well enough, we'll of course give him a chance," Sweden coach Bengt-Ake Gustafsson told The Associated Press. Source

Rumours continue to swirl the Chicago Blackhawks, as GM Dale Tallon is close to landing the puck-moving, veteran defenseman he's been looking for.

The Columbus Blue Jackets and the New York Rangers continue to scout each other, while the Blue Jackets are now scouting the Pittsburgh Penguins closely. The Jackets are looking at forward Erik Christensen closely, and also defenseman Fedor Tyutin. Source

Stars/Lightning trade, Friesen returns?

The Dallas Stars announced today that the club has acquired defenseman Dan Jancevski from the Tampa Bay Lightning in exchange for right wing Junior Lessard. Jancevski will report to the Iowa Stars, Dallas’ primary development affiliate in the AHL. Source

Forward Jeff Friesen has joined the Colorado Avalanche AHL affiliate, the Lake Erie Monsters. Source

Tanguay for Jokinen, Ryder for Mueller?

It's definitely trading season, and there are tons of rumours today:

TSN's Bob McKenzie on the segment "Insider Trading" speculates that the Calgary Flames need some stability in the centre position and could trade Alex Tanguay to the Florida Panthers for Olli Jokinen. Source

Radio station CJCR 1150 AM, based in Gatineau, Quebec, is reporting a rumour of the Montreal Canadiens sending forward Michael Ryder and a 4th round draft pick to the Phoenix Coyotes for Peter Mueller.

Peter Forsberg will begin skating in 2-3 weeks and is optimistic that he will play this season. Forsberg added that he could also elect to finish the season with Swedish team Modo instead. "I'm not going to retire today, I'm going to check with the doctors to see one more time what can be done. They should be able to fix it. I don't want it to be any major procedures, if it's a small thing they can fix, I'll be okay, if not I think I'll let it be. It's looking pretty dark." Foppa said. Source

The Toronto Maple Leafs organization is at a complete mess right now, with speculation rampant that GM John Ferguson Jr. is on his last legs. TSN is reporting that the Leafs have contacted former Leafs GM Cliff Fletcher if he was interested in an interim GM job. Source

The Buffalo Sabres and defenseman Brian Campbell have ended contract negotiations and will not negotiate until the end of the season. "I'm done talking about it with the team until the end of the year," Campbell said in HSBC Arena. "There's more important things right now than just me. We've got to win. "I think it's for the best." This will most certainly mean that Campbell will be traded, as there are several teams looking for a puck-moving defenseman. Source

Thrashers prepared to trade Hossa

*** 2:44pmEST update *** Sportsnet and ESPN have confirmed that the Calgary Flames have signed goaltender Curtis Joseph. Source

Atlanta Thrashers GM and coach Don Waddell would still like to sign impending free agent Marian Hossa, but admitted that he may have to trade the forward. "The good thing is, in the next three or four weeks, we'll know which direction we're headed," Waddell said. "We'll be prepared for whatever we'll try to do." Waddell also thinks he can get a lot in return for Hossa, contrary to speculation that rental players won't get as much as years past. "I think the prices will be high again this year, absolutely." Waddell said. Source

The asking price for Hossa seems to be a young forward, a top to mid-level prospect and high draft picks. Some of the rumoured offers for Hossa are:

The Ottawa Senators have offered Antoine Vermette, Brian Lee, a 1st round draft pick and a 4th round pick in 2008.

The Montreal Canadiens have offered Michael Ryder, P.K. Subban, a 1st round draft pick and a 3rd round pick in 2008.

The Chicago Blackhawks are on the verge of making a trade for a power-play quarterback defenseman, and a deal could occur this week.

Peddie turns down Bowman, Rob Blake on the block?

In an interview with CBC's Hockey Night in Canada host Ron MacLean, Scotty Bowman revealed that he was close to a job with the Toronto Maple Leafs, but was eventually turned down by MLSE president Richard Peddie. Bowman had various interviews with board members, Peddie and MLSE chairman Larry Tanenbaum, but was eventually told in August that Peddie would stick with current GM John Ferguson Jr. Bowman, who works for the Detroit Red Wings organization, revealed that he may still be interested in a Toronto Raptors president Bryan Colangelo-type job with the Leafs. Source

Also, on the intermission program "The Hotstove", it was rumoured that LA Kings defenseman Rob Blake may land with the Detroit Red Wings or the Ottawa Senators.

Phoenix Coyotes top prospects Kyle Turris and Kevin Porter will leave their respective NCAA teams and join the Coyotes late in the season.

The New York Rangers continue to scout the Columbus Blue Jackets closely, with assistant GM Jim Schoenfeld watching the Blue Jackets play Friday and Saturday. Director of player personnel Gordie Clark and several Rangers scouts have been in Nationwide Arena in recent weeks. Rumours of a trade between these two teams continue to spread. Source

Liles for Ladd?, Joseph update

According to a report in the Raleigh News and Observer, the Carolina Hurricanes have targeted Colorado Avalanche defenseman John-Michael Liles as their answer to a power-play quarterback. The Hurricanes would love to unload forward Andrew Ladd. Source

The media in Toronto senses blood in the water and there could be a lot of personnel movement in the Toronto Maple Leafs organization. The Globe and Mail is reporting that GM John Ferguson Jr. will be fired this season, possibly as early as next week. The board will conduct an emergency meeting today or tomorrow, where issues of trades and the future of Ferguson and coach Paul Maurice will be discussed.

The Leafs have also claimed forward Dominic Moore off waivers from the Minnesota Wild.

TSN is reporting that goaltender Curtis Joseph is down to two teams for which he may sign with. The Calgary Flames and San Jose Sharks have emerged as front-runners in the Joseph sweepstakes. **3:13 PST update** TSN is now reporting that the Toronto Maple Leafs and New York Rangers have made late inquiries about CuJo, which could delay his decision by a few days. Source

Another Hawks trade imminent?

The Chicago Tribune is reporting that Blackhawks GM Dale Tallon is not done trading and may make a move as early as Friday. He has made several roster alterations to try to pull his club out of their seven game losing streak. "There's a strong possibility there will be a trade shortly," Tallon said Thursday night. "We're looking to get more of a veteran on the back end to help our kids and somebody who fits into our plans." The Hawks already made a move Thursday and could try to bring in a bigger-named defenseman. "We're looking at our options," Tallon added. "Whether it's a big deal or not, it has to make sense for us. We're building something for the future here." Source

According to radio reports in Chicago, the Hawks could also be looking at Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Dan Boyle. Boyle is expected to return sometime in late January after being out with a wrist injury.

The following rumours are from Marty York of Metro News:

Sources are saying that the Ottawa Senators are close to trading defenseman Wade Redden, fearing his impending free agency. Perhaps Chicago?

The Sens could also be offering a contract to goaltender Curtis Joseph.

The Calgary Flames could "bring in" defenseman Bryan Marchment and forward Stephane Matteau. However, both are retired and Marchment is currently a scout for the San Jose Sharks.

There is speculation that Florida Panthers forward Olli Jokinen and GM/Coach Jacques Martin are not getting along.

Ovechkin signs 13 year, $124 million contract extension!

The Washington Capitals have signed Alexander Ovechkin to a 13 year, $124 million contract extension. The contract will expire in the 2020-21 season when Ovechkin will be 35 years old. It is the largest contract in NHL history. Source

The Florida Panthers have acquired defenceman Magnus Johansson from the Chicago Blackhawks on Thursday for a seventh-round draft pick in 2009. Source

The Chicago Blackhawks have also signed defenseman Brent Sopel to a three-year, $7 million contract. The Chicago Herald is also reporting that the Hawks are close to signing Patrick Sharp to a multi-year extension. Source

The Minnesota Wild announced Bob Naegele's majority stake will be bought by former Nashville Predators owner Craig Leipold. Sources tell TSN that the purchase price is $260 million. Leipold has been rumoured for a long time to be interested in buying the Wild.

The Wild have also put forward Dominic Moore on waivers.

The Vancouver Canucks have claimed forward Kris Beech off waivers from the Columbus Blue Jackets. Source

Ducks and Sharks interested in Sundin, Hossa

USA Today writer Kevin Allen was on WDFN radio in Detroit and reported that the Anaheim Ducks and San Jose Sharks have real interest in Mats Sundin and Marian Hossa. He also reports that the Atlanta Thrashers are having problems negotiating a contract extension with Hossa. Kevin feels both players will end up in the Western Conference, and that the Detroit Red Wings could be another team that is interested. He also notes that the Boston Bruins and Pittsburgh Penguins are looking for a scoring forward and could be interested. Hat tip to the people over at KuklasKorner.com for the heads-up. Source

Damien Cox of the Toronto Star is reporting that the Maple Leafs were "seriously considering" calling up goaltending prospect Justin Pogge to start last Saturday's game. Source

Bill Clement of Sportsnet's Hockeycentral panel reported that the Calgary Flames could be interested in LA Kings defenseman Rob Blake.

Brochu's European round-up:

Simon Gamache, who had been released by the Maple Leafs earlier this week, has signed a three-year deal with SC Bern of the Swiss Nationalliga A. Source

Nashville Predators prospect Oliver Setzinger has left the AHL Milwaukee Admirals. The Austrian forward has signed with SCL Tigers in Switzerland. Source

Osgood signs extension, Beech waived **Trade update**

**Trade Update**

The Anaheim Ducks have traded forward Matt Keith to the New York Islanders for forward Darryl Bootland. Bootland has been assigned to the Duck's AHL affiliate, the Portland Pirates. Source

The Detroit Red Wings have signed goaltender Chris Osgood to a three-year, $4.5 million contract extension. Source

The Columbus Blue Jacket have placed Kris Beech on waivers. Source

Poll Results:

Who will win the Rocket Richard trophy?

Ilya Kovalchuk	71 (48%)
Alexander Ovechkin	28 (19%)
Jarome Iginla	20 (13%)
Vincent Lecavalier	16 (11%)
Dany Heatley	3 (2%)
Other	7 (4%)

Total Votes: 145

Daily Sundin rumor

The title is a bit of a joke. It seems whenever the Toronto Maple Leafs lose, the centre of the universe is saturated with rumours of every single person on the Leafs being shopped. The majority of the rumors are about centre Mats Sundin, who has consistently stated he does not want to be traded, and hasn't been asked to waive his no trade clause. Toronto Sun columnist Steve Simmons has thrown his hat in the ring (rink?), adding that the Leafs should listen to offers for Darcy Tucker, Jason Blake, Pavel Kubina, Mark Bell, Andrew Raycroft and Alexei Ponikarovsky. Source

Bob McKenzie has also jumped on the Sundin rumour mill, stating that he would probably get more back in a package than any player that was traded around last year's trade deadline.

Various sources have confirmed that the Carolina Hurricanes claimed Chicago Blackhawks forward Sergei Samsonov on re-entry waivers. The Canes will pick up half his salary.

GM Garth Snow attended the New York Islanders-Vancouver Canucks game. The Islanders are slowly falling out of the playoff race and could become sellers at the trade deadline. Could we see Miroslav Satan in a Canucks uniform come Feb 27?

Brochu's European round-up:

Defenseman Joe Rullier has been released from his pro tryout contract with the New York Islanders AHL affiliate Bridgeport Sound Tigers and signed with the Kloten Flyers of the Nationalliga A in Switzerland.

Swedish reports have St. Louis defenseman Christian Backman headed to the Carolina Hurricanes. Source

Hurricanes trade watch

According to Lord Stanley's Blog at the News & Observer, the Carolina Hurricanes are looking for a forward, and a trade could happen in the next 48 hours. They are looking to add forward depth with Justin Williams out indefinitely and Matt Cullen's concussion problems. The Canes would probably part with a draft pick or low-level prospect. They are also still pursuing a puck-moving defenseman. Source

Rumors continue to swirl that the Colorado Avalanche are shopping defenseman John-Michael Liles. Could he be a fit in Carolina?

The St. Louis Blues are shopping three of their defenseman, and a trade could come very soon. It's believed that Barret Jackman, Bryce Salvador and Christian Backman are the names being mentioned. Source

Pierre LeBrun of Sportsnet is reporting that if significant progress isn't made in contract talks between Marian Hossa and the Atlanta Thrashers, the Thrashers will begin to shop Hossa in earnest. Source

Various sources have confirmed that the Dallas Stars have signed Mike Ribeiro to a five year, $25 million contract extension.

Waiver wire news:

The Chicago Blackhawks have placed Sergei Samsonov on re-entry waivers again.

The Washington Capitals have placed Ben Clymer on re-entry waivers.

The San Jose Sharks have placed goaltender Dimitri Patzold on waivers.

Simon Gamache has cleared waivers and released by the Toronto Maple Leafs. He will most likely be signing in Switzerland.

Lightning and Rangers to play in Sweden?

According to expressen.se, NHLPA chief Paul Kelly has confirmed that an NHL game between the Tampa Bay Lightning and New York Rangers will be played in Sweden for the upcoming 2008-2009 season. The event will be held in the Globen arena in Stockholm, which will also be host to a game between the Ottawa Senators and Pittsburgh Penguins. Source

A Sportsnet article, citing the Ottawa Sun's Bruce Garrioch, is reporting that seven teams have inquired about Boston Bruins forward Glen Murray. These seven teams are the Detroit Red Wings, Montreal Canadiens, Nashville Predators, Ottawa Senators, Pittsburgh Penguins and Vancouver Canucks. Source

The Colorado Avalanche have sent forward Brad Richardson to the minors, and maybe finished with the Avalanche organization. There are rumors that he could be used as trade bait to bring in some scoring to the Avs lineup, which has suffered some serious injuries. Source

Forsberg, Selanne to return in February?

According to the Courier Post, Peter Forsberg is expected to resume light skating this week in Sweden, and if all goes well, "sign with an NHL team sometime in early February." Philadelphia Flyers president Peter Luukko and general manager Paul Holmgren were made aware of the news on Friday while attending the World Junior Championships in Pardubice, Czech Republic. "Sure, we're interested," Luukko said. "We knew he had his procedure done and then he was going to try skating. It's going to be his call." Source

Teemu Selanne has been skating in full gear at Anaheim Ice lately, and there is word that he may be looking at a February return, according to the official Anaheim Ducks blog. A picture of Selanne at the facility surfaced late Thursday, as seen here. Credit to allducks.com for breaking the story. Source

During the intermission of CBC's Hockey Night in Canada broadcast, analyst Scott Morrison stated on the program "Hotstove" that four teams have talked to Curtis Joseph to discuss if they fit into their respective team.

Morrison also reported that the Dallas Stars have reached an extension deal with forward Mike Ribeiro. The contract is rumored to be in the 3 year, $ 16 million range.

The Los Angeles Time is reporting that the LA Kings may be ready for a fire sale. Defenseman Rob Blake, who has been in the rumour mill lately, regrettably agrees. "Unfortunately, we're probably going to be in that type of position. We would've rather been battling for a playoff spot." Source

Billionaire interested in buying the Leafs?

Toronto billionaire Alex Shnaider, a one-time owner in the Formula One auto racing circuit, has expressed interest in buying the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Toronto Star is reporting that Shnaider has been consulting with bank and industry contacts about how much money it would take to buy the Leafs and it's parent company, Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment. Source

Meanwhile, in Edmonton, Daryl Katz's bid to buy the Edmonton Oilers has stalled, after the Edmonton Investors Group (EIG) recommended a rejection of Katz's $188 million offer to purchase the team. Sources say the board is stalling so that the opposing shareholders could be bought out. Katz's offer expires January 31st, and the board recommendation is expected to come on the 21st.

There are rumours swirling in Toronto that the Maple Leafs will waive goaltender Andrew Raycroft, and will try to sign UFA Curtis Joseph as a veteran backup.

Speculation is rampant that Minnesota Wild defenseman Keith Carney will once again be on the block at the trade deadline.

Simon Gamache has expressed his frustrations with the Toronto Maple Leafs and would prefer to play in Switzerland. "If I'm not with the Leafs, then I would rather go back to Switzerland. As soon as possible. I'm not having fun in the minors. I don't want to be in the minors. Like I said, if that is the case, I might as well be in Switzerland and resume things there." Source

Rangers-Blue Jackets rumors heat up

Aaron Portzline writes on the Puck-rakers blog from the Columbus Dispatch that eight scouts were on hand to watch the Columbus Blue Jackets-LA Kings game Thursday night. Rick Kehoe of the New York Rangers is watching the Blue Jackets for the sixth or seventh time this season, while Gordie Roberts of the Montreal Canadiens was also present. You may remember that the rumours of a trade between the Jackets and Rangers were flying last week. The Blue Jackets remain interested in winger Petr Prucha, while the Rangers may be looking at Manny Malholtra, who has just returned from injury.

There was also that Sergei Fedorov to Montreal rumour a few weeks back, which you can read here. Other names in the rumor mill for both teams include defensemen Adam Foote, Marek Malik and Paul Mara.

The other teams that were represented were two scouts each from the Dallas Stars and Boston Bruins, and one each from the Chicago Blackhawks and Vancouver Canucks. Portzline speculates that these teams probably expect the Kings and Jackets to be sellers at the trade deadline and may be doing some advance scouting. But then again, a trade may be imminent. Source

Peter Forsberg is close to skating again. TSN's Darren Dreger is reporting that Forsberg is waiting for clearance from doctors to begin skating. Foppa has still not had serious discussions with any NHL team. Sources are indicating that he would prefer to return to the Philadelphia Flyers, but both the Colorado Avalanche and Nashville Predators could be likely destinations. Source

Dowd, Fitzpatrick, Grahame on waivers

The Philadelphia Flyers have placed centre Jim Dowd and defenseman Rory Fitzpatrick on NHL waivers Thursday. "At the end of the day, we felt it would give us more roster flexibility if they both clear," Flyers GM Paul Holmgren told the Philadelphia Inquirer from the world junior tournament in the Czech Republic. "It will allow us to do more things with our team, maybe even bring up a defenceman." Could a trade be coming soon? Source

The Carolina Hurricanes have placed goaltender John Grahame on waivers. Grahame is earning $1.4 million this season and will be an unrestricted free agent this summer. "John Grahame didn't do anything wrong, he didn't get any support," GM Jim Rutherford said. "We're just giving another guy a chance here." The Hurricanes have called up Michael Leighton from the AHL Albany River Rats. Source

Penguins in trade talks

Pittsburgh Penguins GM Ray Shero won't be making any panic moves to help his injury-riddled club, but he is keeping all the doors open. Shero cannot divulge specifics of any talks in which he is engaged, but acknowledged that he is speaking with other clubs. "You hear from somebody almost every day in this job," Shero said. "There is plenty of conversation." Source

The Toronto Maple Leafs have signed forward Darryl Boyce to an entry-level contract. The 23 year old undrafted centre had been playing with the AHL Toronto Marlies. Source

With the new year, many players can now be signed to contract extensions. Here are some of the ones that are close to signing:

The Dallas Stars can officially sign Mike Ribeiro to a long-term deal. Co-GM Les Jackson said the Stars have already started negotiations with Ribeiro's agent, Don Meehan. "We're talking, and things are moving forward," Jackson said. "We think things are very positive." Source

Anaheim Ducks GM Brian Burke is looking to sign forward Corey Perry to a long-term extension when he gets back to Anaheim on Jan 7. He is hoping to avoid the contract situation he had last year with Dustin Penner. Source

The Detroit Red Wings have offered goaltender Chris Osgood a three-year extension, but his agent, Rollie Thompson, said they still haven't decided on a term. A one-year, incentive-laden contract also is a possibility. Source

The Red Wings have also been in negotiations with defenseman Andreas Lilja and forward Dan Cleary. A deal may be close with both players.

Hnidy for Bochenski, update on more outdoor games

The Anaheim Ducks have traded defenseman Shane Hnidy and a sixth round pick in 2008 to the Boston Bruins for forward Brandon Bochenski. This is the "minor" deal that GM Brian Burke hinted at before. Source

Darren Dreger of TSN reports on his blog that several other teams are interested in conducting outdoor games, including the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Leafs would like to have the game at BMO field, which is owned by MLSE, but it could also be held at Rogers Centre. Other teams interested are the New York Rangers, New York Islanders, Boston Bruins, Pittsburgh Penguins, Chicago Blackhawks and Colorado Avalanche. Source

For more on possible outdoor games, check my previous post here.

Cheechoo available?

The Beaver County Times & Allegheny Times is reporting that San Jose Sharks forward Jonathan Cheechoo is being shopped. Cheechoo is signed through 2010-11, and makes $3 million a year. The article is also stating that there is a rumor that Cheechoo could be swapped for Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Sergei Gonchar. The Edmonton Oilers are also reportedly in the running for Cheechoo. Source

Sergei Samsonov cleared waivers on Monday and the Chicago Blackhawks have called him on re-entry waivers. Coach Denis Savard has said that he would only be called up if there were teams interested in picking him up. There's speculation that the Carolina Hurricanes and the San Jose Sharks could pick up the Russian winger. Source

Curtis Joseph continues to be in the rumor mill after his strong performance with Team Canada at the Spengler Cup. The usual teams have been mentioned, but Pittsburgh remains the most hotly rumoured destination.

Gordie Dwyer has been cut by the Portland Pirates (Anaheim Ducks AHL affiliate) and has signed with the Schwenningen Wild Wings of the ASSTEL-Bundesliga in Germany, one division under the DEL. Source

Poll Results:

Who will win the 2008 IIHF World U20 Championship?

Canada	129 (75%)
Czech Republic	3 (1%)
Denmark	1 (0%)
Finland	4 (2%)
Kazakhstan	0 (0%)
Russia	3 (1%)
Slovakia	0 (0%)
Sweden	8 (4%)
Switzerland	0 (0%)
USA	24 (13%)

Total Votes: 172

More outdoor games coming?

With the Winter Classic going on today in Buffalo, there has been talk that outdoor games could become a fixture in the NHL schedule. "It's something we're going to look at doing more of," said Bill Daly, the NHL's deputy commissioner. "I wouldn't say we'd do an outdoor game every year. But it could become a semi-regular event. It's a little early to make those predictions. But it's a pretty interesting event." Source

The Globe and Mail is also reporting that there are rumors that the Ottawa Senators are looking to play an outdoor game on the Rideau Canal in front of temporary bleachers. The Montreal Canadiens are also looking to play their NHL All-Star game in 2008-2009 outdoors, possibly on the St. Lawrence river. Source

According to the Hurricanes blog on WRAL.com, Carolina could be targeting two defenseman: Marek Zidlicky of the Nashville Predators and Joe Corvo of the Ottawa Senators. Source

Konstantin Pushkarev has mysteriously rejoined the Iowa Stars of the AHL. Pushkarev had left the Dallas Stars organization in November to return home to Russia.

Happy New Year to all my readers!