NHL News: Rangers, Oilers, Capitals and Sabres
New York Rangers winger Rick Nash is entering the final year of his contract
On the New York Rangers …

Justin Tasch of the NY Daily News: 34-year old Rick Nash is entering the final year of his contract that carries a $7.8 million salary cap hit.

“Every year I want to have the best year possible. But this year, it’s an important year for me personally,” Nash said Friday at Citi Field during an event promoting the Winter Classic between the Rangers and Sabres on New Year’s Day at the ballpark.

“Your contract’s up and you play for another contract. That’s what I’m facing this year,” he said.

The Rangers will have over $50 million committed to 10 players, and Dan Girardi‘s cap hit next year. They will also have to deal with RFAs J.T. Miller, Kevin Hayes, Jimmy Vesey and Brady Skjei.

On the Edmonton Oilers …

Jim Matheson: The Oilers are bringing in Chris Kelly to training camp on a PTO. GM Peter Chiarelli is loyal to past players, but Kelly has little chance of making the team.

On the Washington Capitals …

J.J. Regan of CSN Mid Atlantic:  The Capitals are bringing right winger Alex Chiasson to training camp on a PTO. Last week they signed defenseman Jyrki Jokipakka to a PTO last week.

T.J. Oshie and Tom Wilson are locks on the right side. The Caps are hoping Jakob Vrana could claim a top-nine role. Chiasson will be battling Nathan Walker, Devante Smith-Pelly, Riley Barber and Chandler Stephenson for a fourth line or an extra forward spot.

On the Buffalo Sabres …

Buffalo Sabres: Alexander Nylander is being held out of the rest of the Prospects with a lower-body injury for precautionary reasons.