On the New York Rangers …
Larry Brooks of the NY Post: The Rangers are not planning on buying Dan Girardi out this offseason. Girardi has four years left on his contract with a $5.5 million cap hit. Sources saying they have not asked Girardi to waive his no-movement clause. His no-movement clause turns to a modified no-trade clause after the 2016-17 season.
Sources saying it’s extremely unlikely that they go after Blues defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk in a trade this offseason. Shattenkirk has a year left on his deal and could be looking for $6.5 million on his next deal.
It’s unlikely that Keith Yandle will be back, but communication between the two sides remains open. Yandle could be looking for at least $45 million over seven years.
The Rangers will listen to offers on Rick Nash.
It’s unlikely the Rangers will be in the Steven Stamkos sweepstakes. The Rangers would have clear close to $16 million in cap space to fit him in. Being able insure Stamkos’ contract due to blood clots would also be an issue.
The Rangers are expected to go after Jimmy Vesey when he becomes available on August 15th.
On the Dallas Stars, free agents and Jamie Benn …
Chris Nichols of Today’s Slapshot: Dallas Stars GM Jim Nill on SiriusXM on the Stars free agents.
“Well, as we all know, we live in a cap world here. We’ve got to figure our cap load. I’ve got a lot of guys coming up. When we sit down, we almost plan two, three, four years now. That’s what we’re doing. We know we can’t bring everybody back. You just kind of start your pecking order, and you work your way down and see who you can get finished and go from there.
“We’re going to get together with our scouting staffs here over the next two weeks and (see) who else is available on the market that maybe (we) want somebody who’s a better fit or whatever.”
Nill on a Jamie Benn contract extension that can signed after July 1st.
“Negotiations are always tough. That’s just a part of life, a part of business – doesn’t matter what you’re doing. But we’re going to get something done. He’s the captain of our team. He’s in the prime of his career. I know he wants to get it done before the season starts and so do we.
“We’ll start working on that, and we’re going to end up getting something done.”
