- Chuck Gormley of CSN Washington: After the Capitals re-sign Braden Holtby, Marcus Johansson and Evgeny Kuznetsov, GM Brian MacLellan could have around $6 million in cap space for a top-line right winger and a seventh defenseman. The Islanders, Rangers, Penguins, Canadiens and Senators are also looking for a top-six winger, which could increase the prices for potential targets. If the Capitals go the free agent route, potential targets include Justin Williams,
Drew Stafford, Erik Cole, Chris Stewart and Michael Frolik.
- Alex Prewitt of the Washington Post: Capitals GM Brian MacLellan on the free agent market.
“This year’s a little tighter,” he said. “It’s a little thinner and it’s going to be more competitive and I think you’re going to have to really overpay to get guys, because it’s more competitive for guys this year.”
MacLellan could look at the trade market to find a top-six winger, which MacLellan called “the way to go for improving your club.” Patrick Sharp and T.J. Oshie could be available. The Capitals were interested in Ryan O’Reilly before he was traded.
“There were a couple opportunities that were discussed, and might be still ongoing, we’ll see what happens over the next few days and weeks,” MacLellan said after the second day finished. “I think there’s a lot of talk that went on in general over the past week, and some things happen, and some things didn’t. Some things are still ongoing.”
Depending on the price, they could look at Matt Beleskey and Justin Williams.
Source saying at least five playoff teams are interested in Joel Ward.
- Jason Brough of Pro Hockey Talk: Recently bought out Alexander Semin’s agent yesterday.
“Without question, Semin will play in the NHL and will have a great season,” Diamond told Sportsnet today. “We’ve already received calls on him.”
Chad Graff of the Pioneer Press: The Wild aren’t expected to make many changes this offseason.
“I’m actually excited coming back with our team,” Wild general manager Chuck Fletcher said.
“I think it’s a great thing,” Wild coach Mike Yeo said.
The Wild are close to re-signing Mikael Granlund. They don’t have a lot of cap room and need to add a forward or two for their bottom-six and a 3rd pairing defenseman like Jordan Leopold.
“Unless we make a trade,” Fletcher said, “I don’t think we’ll have much room.”
