NHL and hockey rumors for May 18, 2008

According to the Calgary Sun, the Flames are among several NHL teams that want to sign Swedish forward Martin Thornberg. Thornberg scored 20 goals and 17 assists in 51 games for HV71 and also netted another 17 points in 17 playoff games. Brochu's take: Another unsigned European forward? There seems to be a trend this summer to sign these guys. Source

Aftonbladet is reporting that three players playing for Sweden at the 2008 IIHF World Championship are getting a lot of interest from NHL teams. Forward Johan Andersson is being observed closely by the Vancouver Canucks and Detroit Red Wings, while forward Per Ledin and defenseman Jonas Frogren have also been closely observed. Source

Rumors from Sweden indicate that Red Wings forward Johan Ryno may leave the Wings to play with Elitserien team AIK. Source

Teemu Selanne announced he has retired from international hockey, and will not play for Finland anymore. He also stated that he will make a decision on his NHL future by July 1. Brochu's take: Anaheim Ducks GM Brian Burke will have an aneurysm if Selanne again waits half a year to decide. Source

According to the Puck-rakers blog at the Columbus Dispatch, the Blue Jackets will wait till July 1 to negotiate with restricted free-agent Dan Fritsche.

The same blog is reporting that the San Jose Sharks will trade Patrick Marleau this summer before his no trade clause kicks in, and the Calgary Flames are interested in the centre. Source