NHL and Hockey Rumors for Feb 11, 2009

After clearing waivers, the Dallas Stars have assigned forward Sean Avery to the Hartford Wolf Pack, the AHL affiliate of the New York Rangers. It's presumed that after several games, the Stars will re-call Avery through re-entry waivers, and the Rangers will pick him up. Brochu's take: Of course, it's entirely possible, if not probable, that some other NHL team will pick up Avery before the Rangers get a chance. Also, like Bob McKenzie says in his blog, the Stars could just keep Avery in the minors as long as possible and not make a decision at all.

The Edmonton Oilers have denied a local report that forward Jaromir Jagr is close to joining the team. According to the Edmonton Journal, a Czech source says Jagr is close to finalizing a deal that would see him join the Oilers for the remainder of the season. Jagr is currently playing with KHL team Avangard Omsk. Brochu's take: Not only that, he would have to clear waivers before he can come back to the NHL. Jagr does not have an out clause in his three-year contract with Omsk, but it's quite possible that he could sign with Edmonton in the summer. The Oilers offered a contract last summer, and with the KHL facing economic uncertainty, Jagr could contemplate a return to the NHL. Source

There's been a lot of speculation that the Anaheim Ducks are looking to shop defenseman Chris Pronger and Scott Niedermayer. According to NJ.com, the New Jersey Devils could be interested in both players. Brochu's take: I think the Ducks will hang on to Pronger. As for Niedermayer, it's unknown if he wants to return in 2009-2010. But rumors are that he would be willing to accept a trade to four teams: The Vancouver Canucks, Edmonton Oilers, Calgary Flames and the Devils. Source

According to Pierre LeBrun of ESPN, Montreal Canadiens GM Bob Gainey held a meeting with the coaching staff in Montreal before the team left for its six-game road trip this week. LeBrun believes that the Canadiens will be active, and will be willing to trade some of their young assets or some of their impending free agents to "right the ship." Brochu's take: Tomas Plekanec's name has been tossed around the rumor mill, with the Chicago Blackhawks the most interested. Source