Morning Hits: Rolston, Weber, Fistric, Torres, McDonald, Canucks and Staal
  • Bucky Gleason: The Sabres announced that Ron Rolston will remain on as head coach.
  • Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal: If the Predators make Shea Weber available on July 24th, they’ll get plenty of phone calls. If they were to look at moving him, they would likely want the team to help out with the $13 million signing bonus that is due on July 1st. Matheson is hearing that the Oilers have offered Mark Fistic a three year deal at $1.5 million a year. Fistric asked for $2 million a year, and talks have stalled. If the Oilers are looking for role players for next season, they should take a look at Raffi Torres. Matheson wonders if the Ducks would be interested in Andy McDonald, who’ll be a UFA at seasons end, and the Blues likely won’t have enough money to re-sign him.
  • Brad Ziemer of the Vancouver Province: Who starts Game 4 for the Canucks is not known yet.

    “If I’m called upon, I’ll be ready.” Luongo said. “If not, Cory will be ready as well. It’s his team and whatever happens I will be 100 per cent supportive. We just have to make sure when we come to the rink, starting tomorrow, we are 100 per cent dedicated to winning the hockey game, doing whatever it takes whether that is taking a punch in the face, blocking a shot with your teeth. If we have 20 guys ready to do that in the next game, I like our chances.”

  • Steve Zipay: The Rangers activated defenseman Marc Staal from the IR yesterday.