William DePoali via twitter: Gary Bettman said yesterday that if the league wins its case against Ilya Kovalchuk, they may look in to other long-term deals.
Richard Durrett of ESPN Dallas: According to his agent, Marty Turco is going to play for a contending team next season. He has 3 potential landing spots, and will make a decision in the next 7 to 10 days.
Jesse Rogers of ESPN Chicago: The Blackhawks and Antti Niemi have submitted their written briefs before their Thursday arbitration hearing. The ‘Hawks would like to keep Niemi but it all comes down to the price. One option to save cap space would be to go with a 21 man roster (2 below the max, which most carry), with the 21st player being able to play both forward and defense. If Niemi’s salary is below $2.5 million (and Victor Stalberg is sent to minors, saving $300K) they could do that (they’d also have a $1 million cushion for injuries). If the number is between $2.5 and $3 million, they’d have to make another move. If it’s over $3 million, he may not be their starting goalie next season. Marty Turco could be an option if they lose Niemi, they might be able to get him between $2 and $2.5 million.
Chric Kuc of the Chicago Tribune: Niemi is likely seeking between $3 and $4 million a season, the ‘Hawks probably closer to $2 million. The ‘Hawks could accept any ruling either way, and look to trade him, or someone else.
Andy Strickland via twitter: The Boston Bruins are talking to Bill Guerin, but would need to make a roster move first. Penguins are still interested in him.
Michael Arace of the Colubus Dispatch: (written before the Blue Jackets and Anton Stralman settled before their arbitration, 1 year, $1.95 million.) The Blue Jackets will look to improve their defense, and will look via trades and not free agency. 3 options could be Tomas Kaberle, Kevin Bieksa and Sheldon Souray. Arace believes the Blue Jackets have made a pitch for Kaberle, inquired about Bieksa, and made a ‘token’ call about Souray. Nikita Filatov’s name probably would come up.
Tim Benz of Inside Pittsburgh Sports: Penguins GM Ray Shero hasn’t completely ruled out bringing Bill Guerin back next season, and is still in touch with him. But at the moment they are looking at young kids to fill the holes.
James Mirtle via twitter: Alexei Ponikarovsky signed a 1 year deal with the Kings (for $3.2 million cap hit). He wanted a 4 year from the Leafs on a ‘big ticket’ when he was with them.
Michael Russo via twitter: Willie Mitchell could be a possibility for the Wild, but he’s not looking to take physicals just yet.
