Same old, same old with Nylander, Matthews and Marner
Lance Hornby of the Toronto Sun: Kasperi Kapanen worked his way up the Toronto Maple Leafs roster and landed on a line with Patrick Marleau and Auston Matthews against the Chicago Blackhawks, replacing Tyler Ennis.
If Kapanen can keep it up, the Leafs may not miss William Nylander as much for now, but don’t expect Nylander’s camp to give in quickly to get a deal done.
The Maple Leafs and Nylander are rumored to have a gap of around $2 million a season on a long-term deal.
Chris Johnston of Sportsnet: Toronto Maple Leafs GM Kyle Dubas had “extensive discussions” with the agents for Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner this offseason.
A deal obviously wasn’t reached and the cost of signing them to a long-term deal could go up.
Matthews appears to be willing to get a deal done in season, but Marner has already told his agent Darren Ferris that he doesn’t want the distraction of contract negotiations.
Duchene doesn’t want to be involved in talks unless it’s necessary
Chris Johnston of Sportsnet: Ottawa Senators pending unrestricted free agent Matt Duchene has told his agent not to involve him unless talks progress far enough that his input is needed. Duchene realizes that going to free agency may be unavoidable.
Division shuffling
Chris Johnston of Sportsnet: When the Seattle franchise is ready to go, they are expected to join the Pacific Division, with the Arizona Coyotes moving to the Central.
The three closest teams to Arizona – Vegas, Anaheim and LA – would then be in a different division.
Speculation about the Coyotes moving to Houston won’t be quieted.
Mason considering retiring
Chris Johnston of Sportsnet: Steve Mason is believed to have turned down an offer from the Carolina Hurricanes. Concussions and knee issues have him considering retirement.
Melnyk not selling
Chris Johnston of Sportsnet: Elliotte Friedman said over the weekend that Ottawa Senators owner Eugene Melnyk told the Board of Governors last week that he wants to make things work in Ottawa and doesn’t plan on selling the team.
