Hockey and NHL rumors for Dec 30, 2009

The Washington Capitals have traded forward Chris Clark and defenseman Milan Jurcina to the Columbus Blue Jackets for forward Jason Chimera. Brochu's take: Trading your captain is a bit weird, but I believe the Caps are shedding a bit of salary cap space to make a big run to the Stanley Cup this season. Look for the Caps to make more moves soon.

The Vancouver Canucks have placed defenseman Mathieu Schneider on waivers. Brochu's take: There are rumors he might retire if he clears.

The Anaheim Ducks have placed forward Kyle Calder on waivers.

The Nashville Predators have placed forward Dave Scatchard on waivers.

Hockey and NHL rumors for Oct 8, 2009

The Detroit Red Wings have signed forward Brad May to a one-year, $500,000 contract.

The Chicago Blackhawks have traded defenseman Aaron Johnson to the Calgary Flames in exchange for forward Kyle Greentree.

The Boston Bruins have signed forward Milan Lucic to a 3-year, $12.25 million contract extension. Brochu's take: While Lucic is a good player, I don't think he's worth 4 million a year. My estimation is that he will top out at 20-25 goals.

The Nashville Predators have signed forward Dave Scatchard to a one-year, two-way deal.

Penguins interested in Turco?

According to Steve Zipay at Newsday.com, "Pittsburgh reps have been following the Stars from city-to-city. The hunch: Assessing Dallas G Marty Turco and/or defensemen." The Penguins have been rumoured to be shopping for an experienced goalie. Source

Brochu's European round-up:

Erik Rasmussen and Dave Scatchard are interested in signing in Switzerland, specifically with SC Bern and EV Zug of the Nationalliga A. Rasmussen remains unsigned and Scatchard was recently released from his pro tryout contract with the New York Rangers. Source

Aftonbladet is reporting that Daniel Tjärnqvist will be joining Lokomotiv Yaroslavl of the Russian Super League. It is believed he will be joining the team after his participation in the Karjala Cup.

HC Lugano has contacted David Aebischer. Aebischer is currently playing for the AHL affiliate of the Phoenix Coyotes.

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