Tom Gulitti via twitter: The decision to scratch Ilya Kovalchuk from the New Jersey Devils lineup was made mid-day, and it was John MacLean’s decision and not managements. MacLean later added, “I’m not discussing it. It was my decision. I made it. He (Kovy) knows. I spoke to him and that’s where it’s going to stay.” EJ Hradek is not buying that MacLean didn’t run this by Lou Lamorielle before making the decision. Andy Strickland tweeted that since New Jersey is one of most secretive organizations, Kovalchuk either violated a team rule or is injured. Gulitti tweeted that MacLean wouldn’t give the reason why he sat him, and wouldn’t answer if it was because of his play.
Pierre LeBrun of ESPN: The Ottawa Senators would like Anaheim Ducks to take Brian Lee off their hands, the Ducks may be more interested Chris Campoli, though there may not be a fit between the 2 teams. The Ducks have also been talking to the Sabres. Erik Ersberg cleared waivers and his contract was terminated. Ersberg originally reported to the AHL, but he left the team on Thursday, therefore the Kings were able to terminate the contact due to breach of contract. Jimmy Howard is a UFA at seasons end, there haven’t been any contract talks between him and the Red Wings yet.
Ken Warren of the Ottawa Citizen: Jason Spezza missed his 3rd game of the season with a groin injury. “We’re going to sit him until he’s 100 per cent confident that he can go out and play at the top of his game,” coach Cory Clouston said Saturday morning. “We have to trust that he knows his body and when he goes in and talks to the doctors and trainers, it’s not going to be 70 per cent or 60 per cent. It has got to be 95 per cent or 100 per cent.” Pascal Leclaire is also out with a groin injury, is practicing on his own is could be back within a week.
Andy Strickland of True Hockey: St. Louis Blues defenseman Roman Polak sliced his right wrist on Sidney Crosby’s skate last night. Full extent of injury isn’t known yet, but Strickland was told it’s likely he avoided serious ligament or tendon damage.
Jeff Klein of the NY Times: Brandon Prust who was clipped in the eye by a high stick has been cleared by doctors, flew home with the team.
Hockey Night in Canada Hotstove – The Hotstove with Ron MacLean. Glenn Healy, Eric Francis & Pierre Lebrun. They talk about Kovalchuk’s benching and who’s decision it was to sign him, Roberto Luongo playing less, Rick Rypien’s suspension, cap issues in Boston with Chiarelli looking at potential moves
