Morning Hits: Bettman, Wang, Smith, Pouliot, Maatta and Mayer
  • Eric Francis: Gary Bettman was named the 2014 Sports Executive of the Year at the Sports Business Awards.
  • Chris Botta: Gary Bettman on the Islanders sale: “Charles (Wang) is still deciding what he wants to do. No decision has been made.”
  • Sarah McLellan: Coyotes goaltender Mike Smith was medically cleared last week from his MCL sprain. Maloney: “He’s 100 percent and feels great.”
  • Shelly Anderson: Penguins prospect Derrick Pouliot had shoulder surgery and is out four to six months.
  • Bob McKenzie: Penguins Olli Maatta will have shoulder surgery today.
  • Louis Jean: The Canadiens put goaltender Robert Mayer on unconditional waivers at his request. He’ll resume his playing career in Switzerland if he goes unclaimed.