- Tim Wharnsby of CBC: The Canadiens have P.K. Subban, Lars Eller, Dale Weise and Ryan White as restricted free agents. Do they look to re-sign Brian Gionta, Andrei Markov and Mike Weaver? Do they try to re-sign Thomas Vanek? Wharnsby can see the Canadiens re-signing Gionta and Weaver, but thinks if might be the right time to part ways with Markov. They have young depth on the blueline with Nathan Beaulieu, Jarred Tinordi, Greg Pateryn and Morgan Ellis.
- Larry Brooks of the NY Post: Brian Boyle’s play this post-season will mean he’ll be in demand if he hits the open market. The Rangers and Boyle will be faced with the questions: how much would they want to pay him in a fourth line role and would he be fine with playing in a fourth line role or would he rather getting more ice time with another team? The Rangers are also going to have to pay to keep Anton Stralman. Also looking for new deals will be Dominic Moore, Derick Brassard and Mats Zuccarello. Marc Staal will be entering the last year on his deal.
- Helene St. James: Red Wings management will meet for three days to look at trades and how best to spend their money. They’ll meet from Monday to Wednesday to look at what might be available. They are waiting to hear if Daniel Alfredsson wants to play next season. Kyle Quincey will likely test the open market.
“I want to hear what our scouts think of our young players, talk about what we need, and formulate a plan,” Holland said.
“It’s going to be an important three days,” Holland said. “I respect the opinions of our pro scouts, I want to hear how they evaluate our team, and go over the other 29 teams, especially the ones in the east.
“We’re hoping to be active, we’re planning to be active.”
They will look at how they can add a top-four defenseman and top-six forward. Options could include: Matt Niskanen, Dan Boyle, Andrei Markov, Alex Edler, Thomas Vanek and Paul Stastny.
- Dave McCarthy: Maple Leafs Dave Bolland on TSN radio said he wasn’t close to 100% when he returned to the lineup, but he wanted to get back and help the team. Bolland said he would take less money to remain in Toronto if the fit is good.
