NHL Rumors: Vesey, Gaudreau, Sens, Leafs, Kovalchuk and Kings
Johnny Gaudreau

Insider Trading …

  • TSN Insider Trading:  Bob McKenzie: Jimmy Vesey could be finished his college career this weekend. The Predators are able to offer him something no team can, the ability to burn a year off his entry level contract and the chance to play in the playoffs this year as a top nine forward. His dad works for the Maple Leafs, and Bruins would love to get their hands on the hometown Vesey. The Predators will do all they can to get him into their lineup this year.
  • Darren Dreger The NHLPA has no say if the NHL expands, but they do have some say in where they would slot in the entry draft and about no-movement clauses for the expansion draft.
  • Bob McKenzie: Pending RFA Johnny Gaudreau is not eligible for an offer sheet this offseason. He hasn’t played enough games despite burning through his three year deal.

On the Ottawa Senators …

  • John Shannon: Sens owner Eugene Melnyk said that it’s up to Bryan Murray if he’ll remain as the teams GM next season.
  • Darren Dreger: It’s hard to say who is safe in Ottawa and who isn’t based on what Melnyk was saying yesterday.

On the Toronto Maple Leafs …

  • James Mirtle: Don’t think that Joffrey Lupul will be back with the Leafs next season. Would be a shock if Peter Holland is back. If William Nylander keeps playing like he is, they should move Tyler Bozak as well. DragLikePull: Unless Lupul is permanently put on the IR, don’t see how they will be able to get rid of him. Not an easy contract to move. 67Sound: Don’t see how the Leafs can trade Lupul even if they retain 50 percent of his salary.

On Ilya Kovalchuk …

  • Aivis Kalnins: Ilya Kovalchuk didn’t skate with the team yesterday morning as he’s not even in Moscow. He’ll be out of their lineup until further notice. Have been told that there is nothing more than him just sitting out.

On the Los Angeles Kings …

  • Dennis Bernstein: (answering question) Even if the Kings and Vincent Lecavalier wanted to return next year, and even at a $2.25 million cap hit, it would be hard to fit him in with Anze Kopitar’s extension and maybe re-signing Milan Lucic.