Rumors: Wings, O’Reilly, Hyman, O’Connor, Del Zotto and Kessel

“I will be very disappointed if that doesn’t happen, but I understand the business. Does he want to play in Colorado or test the market? That is his decision. He knows how I feel and how much we want him. I understand that is a tough call…I had the chance to leave Denver late in my career but I stayed because it was best for my family.”

Panthers draft pick Zach Hyman will be a free agent if they don’t sign him by August 16th, and it’s sounding like he won’t be re-signing. Hyman is from Toronto and his previous “advisor” was Kyle Dubas.

Matt O’Connor has told the Oilers he will visit them after the Frozen Four. He’s also expected to visit Buffalo, Calgary, Vancouver and possibly with the Rangers. Other teams may now be interested in O’Connor as they don’t have to burn a year of his contract.

“I don’t know what’s going to happen,” Del Zotto said. “I love it here. I love the group of guys here, I strongly believe in this room. It’s kind of a weird year, an inconsistent year. I feel we have a team that could do some damage if we stayed consistent. I love everything about it here. It’s an unbelievable sports city. I love the fans. It’s the closest group of guys I’ve ever played with.”

The Flyers could be interested in a long-term deal, but that would depend on the numbers according to GM Ron Hextall. Hextall doesn’t think it will be a difficult contract to get done.

“I have no idea,” Hextall said. “Personally, I don’t think it should be difficult. I think we know where he was, we know where he is. I think two reasonable people can probably put something together that’s fair for both sides. I don’t anticipate , but until you get there, you don’t know.”