NHL and Hockey Rumors for Mar 31, 2009

According to Darren Dreger of TSN, the Toronto Maple Leafs are close to signing free agent forward Christian Hanson. The 23-year old Hanson has played the past four seasons with Notre Dame Fighting Irish, and is also the son of Dave Hanson of Slapshot fame. Brochu's take: Will he be puttin' on the foil? Source

The Anaheim Ducks have signed defenseman Mark Mitera to a three-year, entry-level contract. Mitera was the Ducks' first round pick in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft and has been playing with the University of Michigan. Mitera will report to the AHL Iowa Chops. Source

The Ducks have also signed free agent forwar MacGregor Sharp to a two-year, two-way entry-level contract. Sharp has played the past four seasons with the University of Minnesota-Duluth. Brochu's take: He already has a great name for hockey. Source

The Minnesota Wild have signed forward Cody Almond to an entry-level contract. Almond was the Wild's fifth round pick in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft and has played the past four seasons with the WHL Kelowna Rockets. Source

The Detroit Red Wings have signed free agent defenseman Sebastien Piche to a three-year, entry-level contract. The 21-year old has spent the last five seasons in the QMJHL. Source

The Boston Bruins have signed free agent forward Yannick Riendeau to a three-year, entry-level contract. The 20-year old has spend the last five seasons in the QMJHL. Brochu's take: On hockeydb.com, he also spend time in France playing for Chamonix? Source

The San Jose Sharks have signed free agent defenseman Joe Loprieno to an entry-level contract. The 22-year old has spend the past three seasons with Merrimack College of the NCAA. Source

NHL and Hockey Rumors for Mar 30, 2009

The San Jose Sharks have signed defenseman Nick Petrecki to a three-year, entry-level contract. Petrecki, the Sharks first round pick in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, has played the last two seasons with Boston College. Brochu's take: This isn't "official", but will be announced this week. Source

According to Darren Dreger's blog on TSN, free agent forward Tyler Bozak is expected to sign a contract this week. Up to 26 NHL teams are interested in the University of Denver forward. Brochu's take: Your guess is as good as mine, but if you want my opinion, he'll go to a team that will offer an immediate spot on their roster. He will sign a two-year entry-level contract with bonuses.

Brochu's European rumor roundup:

There's a rumor from Sweden that Boston Bruins forward P.J. Axelsson will leave the organization in the summer and sign with SEL club Frolunda. Axelsson will be a UFA this summer. Source

New Jersey Devils defenseman Niclas Havelid is also rumoured to be leaving for Sweden and signing with Vasteras in the summer. Source

NHL and Hockey Rumors for Mar 28, 2009

The Dallas Stars have signed goalie Richard Bachman to a three-year, entry-level contract. The 21 year old was the Stars' fourth round (No. 120 overall) pick in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft, and has spend the last two seasons with Colorado College of the NCAA. Source

The Colorado Avalanche have signed forward Ryan Stoa to an entry-level contract. The 21 year old was the Avs second round pick in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft, and spent the four seasons with the University of Minnesota in the WCHA. Source

The Toronto Maple Leafs have signed free agent defenseman Jay Harrison for the rest of the 2008-2009 season. Harrison just finished the season with Zug of the Swiss Nationalliga A. Brochu's take: I don't quite understand Burke's signing of free agents after the trade deadline. Is it just to fill the lineup with warm bodies? Source

The Pittsburgh Penguins have re-signed forward Mark Letestu to a two-year contract. Brochu's take: An AHL depth signing. Source

NHL and Hockey Rumors for Mar 27, 2009

The Carolina Hurricanes have signed defenseman Jamie McBain to a three-year, entry-level contract. McBain was drafted in the 2nd round of the 2006 NHL Entry Draft and played for the University of Wisconsin for the past three seasons. Source

The Philadelphia Flyers have signed free agent goalie Johan Backlund to a one-year contract. The 27-year-old Backlund has appeared in 49 games with Timra of the Swedish Elite League this season, posting a 2.56 goals-against average, .907 save percentage and four shutouts. Source

There's a rumor that the Columbus Blue Jackets are among the top teams in the running for coveted free agent forward Tyler Bozak.

Brochu's European rumor roundup:

Finnish defenseman Mikko Lehtonen is getting interest from several NHL teams. Lehtonen plays for Timra of the SEL, and had 15 goals and 15 assists in 41 games this season. Source

NHL and Hockey Rumors for Mar 26, 2009

The Washington Capitals have signed free agent defenseman Zach Miskovic to a one-year contract. The 23-year old has spent the past four seasons with St. Lawrence University of the NCAA. Source

According to RDS, the Colorado Avalanche have signed free agent forward Cedric Lalonde-McNicoll to a three-year entry level contract. The 20-year old has spent five seasons with the Shawinigan Cataractes of the QMJHL. Source

NHL and Hockey Rumors for Mar 24, 2009

The Edmonton Oilers have signed forward Jordan Eberle to a three-year, entry-level contract. Eberle was Edmonton's 1st round pick in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft.

The Chicago Blackhawks have signed free agent defenseman Brian Connelly to a contract. The 22 year old has spent the past three seasons playing for Colorado College in the NCAA. Source

According to TSN, the Montreal Canadiens may be going up for sale. Owner George Gillett is believed to be seeking investors in all his assets, including the Habs. Gillett also has ownership in Liverpool Football Club and a team in Nascar. The Canadian Press is reporting that Research In Motion CEO Jim Balsillie is among the names being rumoured as the team's next owner. Others include billionaire Cirque du Soleil owner Guy Laliberte, media giant Quebecor and Rene Angelil, manager and husband of singer Celine Dion. Brochu's take: I don't think Canadiens fans have to worry about the team being moved. Can you imagine the Habs being owned by Celine Dion? Will they play "My Heart Will Go On" after every goal? Source

Darren Dreger is also reporting that the Dallas Stars may also be seeking investors. Sources tell TSN, Stars owner Tom Hicks is willing to consider taking on minority investors, although at this point Hicks is not interested in selling the Stars. Brochu's take: I watch the English Premier League quite closely, and it's most likely that they want to sell Liverpool FC. The EPL is now the playground for the mega-rich, and even billionaires like Hicks and Gillett are being overshadowed by the multi-billionaires like Roman Abramovich and Lakshmi Mittal.

NHL Signings for Mar 21, 2009

The Washington Capitals have signed free agent forward Trevor Breuss to a two-year entry-level contract. The 23 year old Bruess has spent the past three seasons with Minnesota State of the Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA). Source

The Vancouver Canucks have signed free agent forward Eric Walsky. The 24 year old Walsky has spent the past five seasons with the University of Alaska-Anchorage and Colorado College in the NCAA. Source

The Phoenix Coyotes have signed free agent defenseman Jeff May to a multi-year contract. May was selected by the Detroit Red Wings in the fifth round (151st overall) of the 2005 NHL Entry Draft. Source

NHL Signings for Mar 19, 2009

I apologize for the lack of updates lately, there just haven't been much to report! But I expect things to pick up in the next few weeks, especially with contract extensions and college free agent signings.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have signed forward Alex Berry to a two-year, entry level contract. Berry was selected by the Leafs in the fifth round, 153rd overall, in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft. The 23 year old will join the AHL Marlies for the rest of the 2008-2009 season, after spending four seasons with the University of Massachusetts-Amherst. Source

The Montreal Canadiens have signed forward Olivier Fortier to a three-year, entry-level contract. Fortier was selected in the third round by the Canadiens, 65th overall, in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft. The 19 year old has spend the past four seasons in the QMJHL with Drummondville and Rimouski. Source

The New York Rangers have signed free agent forward Paul Crowder. Crowder has played for the last four years for the University of Alaska-Anchorage Seawolves. Source

The Carolina Hurricanes have signed goalie Mike Murphy to a three-year, entry-level contract. Murphy was selected in the sixth round by the 'Canes in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft and has spent the past four seasons with the OHL Belleville Bulls. Source

The New York Islanders have signed forward Tim Jackman to a one-year contract extension.

NHL and Hockey Rumors for Mar 17, 2009

The Vancouver Canucks have signed defenseman Taylor Ellington to a three-year, entry-level contract. The Victoria native was originally selected 33rd overall in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft. Source

Speculation continues that Patrick Roy will become the next head coach of the Montreal Canadiens. However, the rumor is that current assistant coach Don Lever has the inside track on the job. Brochu's take: There continues to be a bit of an uproar because Lever does not speak French. I don't think Roy has enough experience to become an NHL coach yet.

The Phoenix Coyotes have placed forward Brian McGrattan on re-entry waivers.

Brochu's European rumor roundup:

SM-Liiga team Tappara has loaned forward Jori Lehterä to St. Louis Blues AHL affiliate Peoria Rivermen for the rest of the season. Lehtera was drafted by the Blues in the third round of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft. Source

HC Lugano forward Patrick Thoresen is still considering a return to the NHL. Thoresen had an excellent season in the Swiss Nationalliga A, scoring 22 goals and 41 assists in 48 games. Brochu's take: Thoresen still has a lot of upside to him, and I can imagine his old teams, the Edmonton Oilers and Philadelphia Flyers, would come calling. Source

NHL and Hockey Rumors for Mar 16, 2009

The Toronto Maple Leafs have signed forward Chris DiDomenico to a three-year, entry-level contract.

Poll Results:

Do you think Sean Avery will save the Rangers?

Yes	18 (14%)
No	52 (42%)
Don't care	52 (42%)

Total Votes: 122

Will you be taking the March 4 NHL trade deadline day off?

Yes	67 (36%)
No	58 (31%)
I will be "sick"	57 (31%)

Total Votes: 182

NHL and Hockey Rumors for Mar 13, 2009

The St. Louis Blues have signed forwards Philip McRae, Anthony Peluso and Brett Sonne to entry-level contracts. Terms were not disclosed. Source

The Calgary Flames released the Quad City ownership group Thursday from the remaining three years of their minor-league AHL affiliate agreement with the NHL team. "We intend to file for relocation to Abbotsford," Flames president Ken King said. "We've got a lot of critical, key prospects in our system, and we need a great home for them to prepare for the NHL." Brochu's take: Hmmm, putting a minor league team in enemy territory would sure make for interesting crowds. Source

The Vancouver Canucks have announced Thursday they have renewed their affiliation agreement with the AHL Manitoba Moose through the 2011-12 season.

Brochu's European rumor roundup:

Ottawa Senators defenseman Mattias Karlsson is rumored to be leaving the organization in the summer to play in Sweden next year. The rumored teams interested in signing him are Lulea and Farjestad. Source

NHL and Hockey Rumors for Mar 12, 2009

According to the New York Post, NHL general managers have given their approval to the Rangers' request for a compensatory pick in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft in the wake of the death of 2007 first-round selection Alexei Cherepanov. Brochu's take: While technically in the CBA, (teams unable to sign their first round picks get a pick anyways) the way that this whole thing went down seemed a bit sketchy. Source

TSN's Ice Chips is reporting that Nashville Predators general manager David Poile left the door open for a possible return to the team by Alexander Radulov. Radulov's team in the KHL was eliminated from the playoffs earlier this week. Radulov has one year remaining on his contract with Nashville and would not need to clear waivers to rejoin the team. Brochu's take: I doubt it. Both sides haven't talked to each other in months, and by all accounts, Radulov is happy in Russia. Source

Miroslav Satan's future is still unclear. He's been demoted by the Pittsburgh Penguins to their AHL affiliate, but has not asked him to report. There's a possibility that the Pens could call Satan up on re-entry waivers, but the team can't fit him under their salary cap. An annoucement is expected tomorrow. Brochu's take: A suspension is possible if he doesn't report, in which case the Penguins don't have to pay his salary. Source

The Vancouver Sun is reporting that contract talks between GM Mike Gillis and the Sedin twins are at a standstill, and talks may be shut down until the end of the playoffs. Brochu's take: I think they will re-sign at slightly under market value. Despite some stupid GMs out there, it's hard to see if anyone is willing to shell out > $11 million for these two. Source

Tampa Bay Lightning forward Gary Roberts has officially retired from the NHL.

NHL and Hockey Rumors for Mar 10, 2009

The Montreal Canadiens have fired head coach Guy Carbonneau, and GM Bob Gainey will take over for the rest of the season. Associate coach Doug Jarvis, along with assistant coaches Kirk Muller and Roland Melanson will all be staying with the club. In addition, the Canadiens have added the AHL Hamilton Bulldogs head coach Don Lever to their staff. Brochu's take: Gainey did this probably to save his own job, which is in danger if the Habs don't make a hard run to the Stanley Cup. Darren Dreger of TSN speculates that this move came from ownership and the fact that the players stopped playing for Carbonneau. I believe that Gainey's inability to bring in more depth at the trade deadline will ultimately cost him his job.

The Dallas Stars have re-signed forward Brian Sutherby to a two-year, $1.625 million contract extension.

NHL and Hockey Rumors for Mar 9, 2009

According to David Staples of the Edmonton Journal, Oilers defenseman Ladislav Smid has asked to be traded four times this season. Staples writes that Smid is frustrated with his lack of ice time and utilization. Brochu's take: Obviously, nothing will be done about that until the summer. Source

TSN is reporting that the Tampa Bay Lightning are close to signing a 3-year contract extension with head coach Rich Tocchet.

Larry Brooks of the New York Post is reporting that Jaromir Jagr will receive clearance from his KHL team Avangard Omsk to return to the NHL next season. Brooks is also reporting that the Edmonton Oilers were about to sign a $7 million a year contract with Jagr, and that salary would prevent other NHL teams of picking him up on waivers. Brooks is also speculating that ex-Rangers coach Tom Renney could join Jagr in Edmonton, if the Oilers don't make the playoffs. Brochu's take: That's a lof of "ifs", Larry. While the financial situation with the KHL is still uncertain, they still have money to pay top end players. Source

Brochu's European rumor roundup:

According to Swiss sources, Nashville Predators defenseman Tim Ramholt will leave the organization in the summer and sign with Champions Hockey League winner ZSC Lions. Source

NHL and Hockey Rumors for Mar 7, 2009

The Philadelphia Flyers have nullified the trade they made on March 4 for defenceman Kyle McLaren. The 31-year-old did not pass his physical, according to Flyers GM Paul Holmgren. McLaren had been sent to Philadelphia from San Jose in exchange for a sixth round pick at this year's draft. TSN is reporting that McLaren will be sent to the Flyers' AHL affiliate, the Philadelphia Phantoms. Brochu's take: I don't remember this happening in recent memory. It's strange that even though the transaction has been nullified, McLaren is still being sent to Philly's AHL affiliate. Source

Gary Roberts is expected to announce his retirement officially on Monday. The 42-year old cleared waivers on Wednesday and will not play another game for the Tampa Bay Lightning this season. Brochu's take: Roberts' has had a fantastic career, and to see him retire in the middle of the NHL season is not fitting for a warrior like him.

The Ottawa Senators have signed defenseman Craig Schira to a three-year, entry-level contract. The blueliner has scored 16 goals and 39 assists in 65 games with the WHL Vancouver Giants. Source

NHL and Hockey Rumors for Mar 6, 2009

The Toronto Maple Leafs have signed free agent forward Jeff Hamilton for the rest of the season. Brochu's take: A curious move, coming after the NHL trade deadline. He's likely a roster filler so the Leafs don't have to use their callups.

According to Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun, the Florida Panthers were weighing two offers for defenseman Jay Bouwmeester, who was ultimately not traded. The Vancouver Canucks were willing to give up forward Mason Raymond and a 1st rounde draft pick. It's believed that Florida wanted either defensemen Kevin Bieksa or Alex Edler included and GM Mike Gillis wasn't willing to make the move. The Philadelphia Flyers were offering Joffrey Lupul or Scottie Upshall along with prospect James van Riemsdyk and a 1st round pick. The Panthers wanted Scott Hartnell. Upshall was eventually traded to the Phoenix Coyotes. Brochu's take: In my opinion, GM Jacques Martin will regret not getting something for Bouwmeester. He's already turned down a contract offer, and even if the Panthers make the playoffs, it's not guaranteed they'll make it far. However, I do think that Bouwmeester's negotiation rights will be offered in the summer, likely for a draft pick. Source

The Washington Post's Tarik El-Bashir is reporting that the Capitals had talked to the Anaheim Ducks about acquiring Chris Pronger, but the asking price was much too high. The Ducks wanted defenseman Karl Alzner, goalie Simeon Varlamov and prospect John Carlson. Brochu's take: That would fall in line with Pronger's supposed asking price. Look for a similar type of package by other NHL teams this summer, when Pronger will be available. Source

Waiver Claims and Signings

The Dallas Stars have claimed forward Brendan Morrison off waivers from the Anaheim Ducks.

The Pittsburgh Penguins have claimed forward Craig Adams off waivers from the Chicago Blackhawks.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have claimed defenseman Erik Reitz off waivers from the New York Rangers.

The Leafs also claimed Ottawa Senators goalie Martin Gerber off re-entry waivers. Brochu's take: Gerber will be the no.1 goalie for the Leafs for the rest of the season, as Vesa Toskala has been shut down for hip surgery.

The Ottawa Senators have re-signed defenseman Filip Kuba to a three-year, $11.1 million contract extension, with a full no trade clause. Brochu's take: The deal effectively ended the Kuba trade rumors.

The Buffalo Sabres have re-signed Tim Connolly to a two-year, $9 million contract extension. Brochu's take: The Sabres had to do this, but that's a lot of money to a guy with serious injury troubles.

The Los Angeles Kings have re-signed defenseman Sean O'Donnell to a one-year, $1.25 million contract extension. They have also signed goalie Erik Ersberg to a two-year, $1.5 million contract extension. Brochu's take: That's an absolute bargain for Ersberg.

Trade deadline wrap-up, Part 4

Part 4:

The Phoenix Coyotes traded goalie Mikael Tellqvist to the the Buffalo Sabres for a 4th round pick in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft.

The Pittsburgh Penguins have acquired defenceman Andy Wozniewski from the St. Louis Blues in exchange for blueliner Danny Richmond.

The New York Islanders traded forward Bill Guerin to the Pittsburgh Penguins for a conditional draft pick. The draft pick that Pittsburgh gives up will start as a fifth-round pick. If Pittsburgh makes the playoffs, it increases to a fourth-rounder. If they get to the second round, it becomes to a third round pick. Brochu's take: Finally! Guerin's saga is finally over today. It would seem that the Capitals had pulled out of the deal early on, and that's why it's dragged on.

Patrick O'Sullivan was originally shipped along with a second round draft pick in 2009 from the Los Angeles Kings to the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for forward Justin Williams. Brochu's take: This trade had been rumored late last night.

The ‘Canes then turned around and dealt O'Sullivan and the draft pick they received from the King to the Edmonton Oilers in exchange for Erik Cole and a 5th round pick in 2009. Brochu's take: Cole never really panned out in Edmonton, as he unable to match his stats from his Carolina days.

The Edmonton Oilers also acquired forward Ales Kotalik from the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for a 2nd round pick in 2009. Brochu's take: Wait, the Sabres and Oilers made a deal? So much for the frostiness between the two teams since the Thomas Vanek offer sheet affair. Mind you, Kevin Lowe is no longer the Oilers GM.

Trade deadline wrap-up, Part 3

Part 3:

The Phoenix Coyotes also traded forward Daniel Carcillo to the Philadelphia Flyers for forward Scottie Upshall and a 2nd round pick. Brochu's take: I think the Coyotes got the better of the trade, as Upshall's upside is better than Carcillo, and the 'Yotes also get a 2nd rounder.

The Philadelphia Flyers have acquired defenceman Kyle McLaren from the San Jose Sharks for a sixth-round pick.

The Anaheim Ducks have traded forward Travis Moen and defenseman Kent Huskins to the San Jose Sharks for prospect Nick Bonino, goalie Timo Pielmeier and a conditional draft pick. Brochu's take: Moen will make a big difference (especially in the playoffs) for the Sharks. Also, it certainly looks like the Ducks are looking ahead to next year.

The Ducks also sent prospect Eric O'Dell to the Atlanta Thrashers for forward Erik Christensen.

The Ducks also traded forward Samuel Pahlsson, defenseman Logan Stephenson and a conditional pick in the 2009 draft to the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for defenseman James Wisniewski and forward Petri Kontiola. Brochu's take: Pahlsson was one of the most coveted players on the market, and he will be money in the playoffs. The draft pick is undetermined at this point.

Trade deadline wrap-up, Part 2

The Toronto Maple Leafs have traded forward Nik Antropov to the New York Rangers in exchange for a second round draft pick as well as a conditional draft pick. Brochu's take: I guess the price came down after all, as GM Brian Burke was asking for a first. The Rangers seem to be making a big run in the playoffs.

The Leafs also traded forward Dominic Moore to the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for a second round draft pick. Brochu's take: Burke continues to collect more picks.

The Tampa Bay Lightning have also traded goalie Olaf Kolzig, defencemen Jamie Heward and Andy Rogers and a fourth-round pick to the Toronto Maple Leafs in exchange for a prospect Richard Petiot. Brochu's take: What??? How did the NHL even allow such a trade to happen. Yes, it's a pure salary dump, but teams should at least make the deal somewhat fair. Maple Leafs win this one, no question.

Tampa Bay Lightning have traded defenseman Steve Eminger to the Florida Panthers for defenceman Noah Welch and a third round draft pick.

The Bolts also traded forward Mark Recchi and a second round draft pick in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft to the Boston Bruins in exchange for defenseman Matt Lashoff and forward Martins Karsums. Brochu's take: A fairly even trade, as Recchi could be a good playoff performer. Lashoff and Karsums are good young players that will probably be traded by the Bolts in the summer. ;-)

The Boston Bruins have added some defensive depth and toughness by acquiring Steve Montador from the Anaheim Ducks for forward Petteri Nokelainen.

Trade deadline wrap-up, Part 1

Here's part 1 of the NHL Trade Deadline wrap-up:

The Calgary Flames have acquired Olli Jokinen and a third-round pick in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft from the the Phoenix Coyotes in exchange for forward Matthew Lombardi, forward Brandon Prust and a conditional first round draft pick. The draft pick heading to the Coyotes will either be in the upcoming NHL entry draft or the 2010 draft, at Calgary's option. Brochu's take: The Flames are really making a run for it, and Jokinen should shore up their centre depth. It's a lot to give up for him, but Jokinen does have one more year on his contract.

The Flames also acquired defenseman Jordan Leopold from the Colorado Avalanche in exchange for defenseman Lawrence Nycholat, prospect Ryan Wilson and a 2nd round pick in 2009. Brochu's take: With the injury to Mark Giordano, the Flames needed another defenseman. With Leopold in the fold, he should make a strong defensive core even stronger. Again, it's a big price to pay for a pending UFA.

The Flames also traded goalie Kevin Lalande to the Columbus Blue Jackets for a fourth-round draft pick in 2009.

The Ottawa Senators have traded forward Antoine Vermette to the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for goalie Pascal Leclaire and a 2nd-round pick in 2009. Brochu's take: This trade has been rumored for a few days now. If Leclaire can regain his form from a year ago, this could become a steal for the Sens. Vermette should help the centre depth on the BJs, but I really don't see him as a top 6 forward.

The Phoenix Coyotes also traded defenseman Derek Morris to the New York Rangers in exchange for defenseman Dmitri Kalinin and forwards Nigel Dawes and Petr Prucha. Brochu's take: Don Maloney's role as ex-assistant GM of the Rangers comes into play again. I think the Coyotes get the better deal, as Dawes and Prucha are good young players, while Kalinin provides veteran depth. Morris has been rumored to multiple teams, but his price has been driven up by the lack of quality defenseman available.

NHL and Hockey Rumors for Mar 4, 2009

The Ottawa Senators continue to shop forward Chris Neil, and the Detroit Red Wings, San Jose Sharks and New York Rangers are all believed to be interested in the gritty forward. Source

The Toronto Maple Leafs continue to shop forwards Dominic Moore and Nik Antropov. Moore and the Leafs are around $500,000 a year apart in contract negotiations, while Antropov's asking price of a 1st rounder appears to have lowered. Both players were scratched from Tuesday's game between the Leafs and New Jersey Devils. Brochu's take: A 2nd rounder might get Antropov. As for Moore's value, it's probably a 4th or 5th round pick.

Rich Chere of the Star-Ledger is reporting that the New Jersey Devils will try to find goalie Scott Clemmensen a new team by the trade deadline. Brochu's take: Speculation is that the Calgary Flames and Detroit Red Wings would make the most sense. Source

The San Jose Sharks have signed forward Brandon Mashinter to a three-year, entry-level contract. The 6'4, 232-pound has posted 30 goals and 23 assists in 47 games, with a plus-nine rating and 67 penalty minutes for the Belleville Bulls of the OHL.

Bouwmeester, Morris, Pronger Rumor Update

This is the latest rumor report on Jay Bouwmeester and Derek Morris:

The Vancouver Canucks, Calgary Flames and Philadelphia Flyers remain the frontrunners in the Bouwmeester sweepstakes. However, the Canucks are believed to be comfortable with their team and willing to stand pat. Brochu's take: If Bouwmeester is even traded at all, it will probably be to Philly, if they somehow free up some salary cap space.

ESPN's Pierre LeBrun is reporting a rumor from colleague E.J. Hradek that the Phoenix Coyotes would send Derek Morris and Ilya Bryzgalov to the Flyers in exchange for Joffrey Lupul, Scottie Upshall and Martin Biron. The Washington Capitals, Boston Bruins and Flyers all remain the likely destination for Morris. Brochu's take: Biron has a no trade clause that he would have to waive for that deal to go through. I'm betting Morris goes to Boston. Source

According to Sportsnet, Anaheim Ducks GM Bob Murray has let NHL teams know that he will not trade Chris Pronger at the deadline. Brochu's take: But he will probably get shopped at the entry draft or the summer.

Justin Williams to Kings?

According to Tim Wharnsby of the Globe and Mail, The Carolina Hurricanes and Los Angeles Kings were in trade discussions on Tuesday that would send Justin Williams to the Kings. Source

Burrows, Backstrom re-signed, more waivers

The Minnesota Wild have signed goalie Niklas Backstrom to a four-year, $24 million contract extension. Brochu's take: This should end the speculation that Backstrom was about to be traded. Stats wise, Backstrom deserves the money. But would you consider him a top 5 goalie in the NHL?

The Vancouver Canucks have signed forward Alex Burrows to a four-year, $4 million contract. Brochu's take: I didn't buy into the Burrows trade rumors, because it was obvious he was going to be re-signed. Good contract for a guy that will score 20 goals this season.

The Minnesota Wild have placed forward Peter Olvecky on waivers.

The Ottawa Senators have placed goalie Martin Gerber on re-entry waivers. Brochu's take: The Buffalo Sabres and the Edmonton Oilers have shown some interest.

The Sens also put defenseman Brenden Bell on waivers.

Look for my rumor update around 3:00 AM EST or 12:00 AM PST tonight.

Waiver Wackiness!

It seems half of the NHL was put on waivers today! But here's a wrap-up. I've left some off for a subsequent post.

The New York Rangers have claimed Sean Avery off re-entry waivers from the Dallas Stars.

The Calgary Flames have claimed defenseman Lawrence Nycholat off waivers from the Vancouver Canucks.

The New York Rangers have also placed forwards Aaron Voros and defenseman Erik Reitz on waivers.

The Anaheim Ducks have placed forward Brendan Morrison on waivers.

The Pittsburgh Penguins have placed forward Miroslav Satan on waivers.

The Tampa Bay Lightning have placed forward Gary Roberts on waivers.

The Atlanta Thrashers have placed forward Eric Perrin on waivers.

The Chicago Blackhawks have placed forward Craig Adams on waivers.

The New York Islanders have placed forward Jon Sim on waivers.

NHL and Hockey Rumors for Mar 3, 2009

The calm before the storm...

According to Pierre LeBrun of ESPN, the Pittsburgh Penguins have had talks with the Ottawa Senators about re-acquiring forward Jarkko Ruutu. Brochu's take: The Pens have had a lack of grit this year, but you can expect GM Bryan Murray to gouge the Penguins for as much as possible.

LeBrun is also reporting that Derek Morris has given the Phoenix Coyotes a list of teams he is willing to waive his no trade clause to. The list is believed to contain only teams from the Eastern Conference and considered to be "contenders." One known team are the Boston Bruins. Source

Sportsnet is reporting that Sens defenseman Filip Kuba is willing to waive his no trade clause.

Damien Cox of the Toronto Star is reporting that "multiple" teams are calling the Tampa Bay Lightning about the availability of forward Martin St. Louis. St. Louis has a no trade clause, and has not been asked to waive it. The New York Rangers are among the most interested, and Cox believes a package of young players, such as prospect Evgeny Grachev. Brochu's take: St. Louis is going nowhere, unless the Bolts get blown away by a deal. Source

Atlanta Thrashers forward Eric Perrin hopes he will be traded at the trade deadline. “I’m disappointed I’m at this point with this organization,” said Perrin, who has 15 points this season, with five goals and 10 assists. “I thought I’d proven something, that I’d be a part of the rebuilding. I thought I deserved a better fate.” Brochu's take: Taking a shot at the team isn' going to win him any favors. Expect Perrin to be shipped out. Source

Trent Hunter on the move?

Trent Hunter has been pulled from today's game between the New York Islanders and Colorado Avalanche. He was at the pre-game skate but now his whereabouts are unknown. Brochu's take: Would be interesting if he gets traded before Bill Guerin does. Stay tuned.

*** 4:31 PM PST Update *** He got injured in the pre-game skate. Oh well, still exciting, isn't it?

NJ/Atlanta trade, Avery on waivers, more players on waivers

The Atlanta Thrashers have traded defenceman Niclas Havelid and forward Myles Stoesz to the New Jersey Devils in exchange for blueliner Anssi Salmela.

The Dallas Stars have officially put Sean Avery on re-entry waivers. Brochu's take: We won't know until tomorrow if the New York Rangers picked him up, or some other NHL team.

The Montreal Canadiens have signed forward Andrew Conboy to a three-year, entry-level contract. Conboy was suspended by Michigan State University this season for an attack on a Michigan player during a game.

The Los Angeles Kings have placed defenseman Tom Preissing on waivers.

The New York Islanders have placed defenseman Joe Callahan on waivers.

The Vancouver Canucks have placed defenseman Lawrence Nycholat on waivers.

The Phoenix Coyotes have placed forward Steve Goertzen on waivers.

The Pittsburg Penguins have placed forward Bill Thomas on waivers.

NHL and Hockey Rumors for Mar 2, 2009

Bill Guerin's destination and status remains a hot topic in the NHL. As of Sunday night, no deal is done, but according to Darren Dreger of TSN, the "mystery" team is still waiting to sign off the deal. Guerin has already agreed to waive his no trade clause, and it appears an official announcement will come on Monday. Brochu's take: There's also the possibility the deal will fall through, but regardless, a decision will be expected on Monday.

Tim Sassone of the Chicago Herald believes that the Chicago Blackhawks were offering forward Jack Skille around the league in the hopes of landing a centre and a defenseman. The 'Hawks are also believed to be offering defensemen Cam Barker and James Wisniewski, if the right deal came along. Brochu's take: Barker's been on the block for most of this season. The Hawks are in a very similiar position as the Pittsburgh Penguins of last year, and may think a big trade will put them over the top. Source

Larry Brooks of the New York Post believes that Rangers forward Blair Betts is available and the Detroit Red Wings are interested. Source

The Columbus Dispatch blog "Puck-rakers" is reporting a rumor that the Ottawa Senators will trade forward Antoine Vermette to the Blue Jackets in exchange for goalie Pascal Leclaire. Writer Aaron Portzline believes that there's a 50-50 chance that Vermette will be traded. Brochu's take: This would be a good "hockey" trade, as the Sens need a goalie desperately and Vermette could be used as a second line centre. Source

Rumors continue to swirl that the Tampa Bay Lightning will trade Gary Roberts to the Calgary Flames. Roberts and teammate Mark Recchi have been made available by the Bolts. Source

NHL and Hockey Rumors for Mar 1, 2009

Speculation is rampant late tonight that the New York Islanders have finalized a trade with an Eastern Conference team, and forward Bill Guerin has agreed to waive his no trade clause. Chris Botta of the Islanders blog "Islanders Point Blank" is reporting that a deal is all but done and should be confirmed Sunday. Brochu's take: The rumor is that the Washington Capitals is his destination, but there's also speculation that it could be the Montreal Canadiens. I guess we'll know when the NHL offices open tomorrow. Source

Darren Dreger of TSN is reporting that defenseman Derek Morris has given Phoenix Coyotes GM Don Maloney a list of teams he would be willing to lift his no-trade clause to join. In the meantime, Morris plans to sit out and not play for risk of injury. Source

Pierre LeBrun has made a post on his ESPN blog about the latest trade rumors, I will just go over the names that have not appeared previously:

The St. Louis Blues are interested in re-acquiring Anaheim Ducks defenseman Chris Pronger. Brochu's take: They have the cap space, but I would imagine they would have to trade of their good young defensive prospects and more to get him back.

The Boston Bruins may be targeting Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Tomas Kaberle and Phoenix Coyotes defenseman Derek Morris, as they are no longer in the Pronger hunt.

LeBrun reports that impending UFA Alex Burrows could be moved by the Vancouver Canucks if he hasn't signed an extension by the trade deadline. Brochu's take: I don't agree. I think they will keep him even if he doesn't sign at the deadline, and I expect a deal to be hammered before he reaches free agency.

Five teams have expressed interest in Phoenix forward Olli Jokinen.

The Detroit Red Wings are very interested in Colorado Avalanche forward Ian Laperriere, and several teams have inquired about forward Milan Hejduk. Brochu's take: I would imagine Hejduk would make any team that much more dangerous. Laperriere would provide a veteran presence.

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Jamal Mayers is now on the trading block.