Weekend NHL and Hockey Rumor Roundup for Jan 3-4, 2009

Sorry about the delay, but here's the weekend NHL and Hockey rumor report for Jan 3-4, 2009:

According to Pierre LeBrun of ESPN, the Ottawa Senators and Atlanta Thrashers have had talks, and it's likely that there could be a trade between these two teams. LeBrun believes that each team has what the other covets, and speculates that there could be a swap of defenseman Mathieu Schneider for Antoine Vermette. Brochu's take: The Sens are falling fast and they better make a move soon if they want to save the season. Source

It's Sunday, so it must be time for Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun:

The Florida Panthers are going to deal goalie Tomas Vokoun. Brochu's take: Vokoun's hefty contract, and his no trade clause, makes it unlikely he will be dealt.

The Toronto Maple Leafs are looking to move defensemen Tomas Kaberle, Pavel Kubina, Mike Van Ryn and forward Nik Antropov. Garrioch is quoting sources that Kaberle would OK a deal to an Eastern Conference team, and the Montreal Canadiens are looking for a powerplay quarterback. Brochu's take: I don't think Brian Burke is going to do any favours for a divisional rival, but who knows if the right offer comes along.

The Edmonton Oilers and Columbus Blue Jackets each had scouts at last night's game. Both are believed to be in trade talks with the Senators and might have a mild interest in Jason Spezza. Brochu's take: The possibility of trades between these 3 teams is high, but I doubt it will involve Spezza in any way.

Al Strachan on CBC's Hockey Night in Canada intermission program "The Hotstove" reported that both defenseman Jay Bouwmeester and forward Nathan Horton no longer want to play for the Florida Panthers.

According to Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun, the Vancouver Canucks could be looking at Leafs forward Nik Antropov. Brochu's take: He can probably be had for a 3rd rounder in the draft. Source

NHL and hockey rumors for Sept 2, 2008

According to TSN, the anticipated trade of Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Bryan McCabe to the Florida Panthers will be finalized tomorrow (Tuesday). The Leafs will pay the $2 million bonus owed to McCabe, and will be promptly traded along with a draft pick (2nd round) for defenseman Mike Van Ryn. Brochu's take: This long protracted saga is finally over. Look for McCabe to bounce back to his 50 point self, while Van Ryn will flourish in his new surroundings.

The New York Post is reporting that free agent forward Brendan Shanahan could be joining the Anaheim Ducks. However, rumors are circulating that he is waiting if the Mats Sundin will sign with the New York Rangers, and will base his decision on Mats' choice. Brochu's take: So now Shanahan is waiting for Mats Sundin's decision? Who else, the Pope?

Poll Results:

What do you think Mats Sundin will do?

Sign with Vancouver	138 (29%)
Sign with Toronto	77 (16%)
Sign with Montreal	64 (13%)
Sign with Rangers	15 (3%)
Retire	24 (5%)
Who cares...just do something!	149 (31%)

Total votes: 467

Thanks to everyone who voted! Who knew that we are now in September, and still no decision from Sundin.

Mike Van Ryn available?

Mike Van Ryn was a healthy scratch for the Florida Panthers for Saturday's game and has led to speculation that he could be traded soon. According to the Florida Sun-Sentinel, Van Ryn is in coach Jacques Martin's doghouse and was quite unhappy with the decision. Van Ryn has 2 more years on his contract, and could be attractive to any team looking for a top 4 defenseman. Source

League sources have stated that the NHL is keeping a close eye on "dangerous" players such as Jordin Tootoo, Ryan Hollweg and Derek Boogaard. These players have reputations for questionable play and the league has contacted the GMs in question to warn them that such play will not be tolerated.