Morning Hits: Kessel, Caps, Flyers, Wings, Leafs and Jackets
Phil Kessel
On Phil Kessel

Joe McDonald of ESPN: Phil Kessel said in a text that his tweet wasn’t directed at Team USA players.

“Of course it wasn’t directed at the players,” Kessel said in a text to ESPN. “I know how tough it is to play the game. It wasn’t directed at anyone.”

On the Washington Capitals …

Isabelle Khurshudyan: The Capitals and Dmitry Orlov agree on a one-year contract at $2.57 million.

On the Philadelphia Flyers …

Sam Carchidi: Flyers GM Ron Hextall said that Radko Gudas is “a little ahead of schedule” in rehabbing his wrist injury.

On the Detroit Red Wings …

Ansar Khan: Defenseman Niklas Kronwall is skating on his own. It’s not known yet if he’ll be ready for the start of the season.

On the Calgary Flames …

Wes Gilbertson: Center Sean Monahan missed the World Cup with a back strain and won’t be skating with the team when training camp opens.

On the Toronto Maple Leafs …

Frank Seravalli of TSN: Joffrey Lupul returned to Toronto on September 13th and it’s believed that he had a physical sometime in the last week. Indications are that Lupul was told he’s not fit to play and will be put on the IR when the season starts. Lupul is expected to meet with the media today. The Maple Leafs wouldn’t comment yesterday on Lupul.

The Leafs training camp roster will be released today. There is also a media availability for players today. GM Lou Lamoriello will be holding a press conference today and is expected to address Lupul’s situation.

The soon to be 33-year old Lupul still has two years left on his contract and is owed $9 million. Lupul does have the option to seek a second medical opinion.

Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun: Stephane Robidas resurfaced with the Maple Leafs last week. He’ll be a part-time player development consultant for the team this season. He worked the rookie tournament and will be working with the Marlies and some NCAA.

On the Columbus Blue Jackets …

Aaron Portzline: Blue Jackets forward David Clarkson failed his physical. He won’t be with the team at the start of training camp. President John Davidson said that his contract is insured. Clarkson has a lower back injury according to Davidson. He asked to do his physical before the rest of the team to avoid it being a distraction at camp.