On Thomas Vanek …
Michael Russo: Free agent Thomas Vanek is still going over his NHL options including the Red Wings: “I’ve got to make up my mind sooner than later” … “this is something I’ve never been through. Usually I went early, so this is different. After the first week, I knew this would drag” … “I’ve had a good summer. I’ve prepared myself like I’m going to play, which most likely I am.”
On the Calgary Flames …
Eric Francis of the Calgary Herald: The Calgary Flames have about $4.5 million in salary cap and still have to re-sign RFA forward Sam Bennett and maybe a veteran forward like Jarome Iginla or Jaromir Jagr?
Flames GM Brad Trevliving said they didn’t say they were interested in certain free agents and doesn’t know where this talk comes from.
“Both are Hall of Famers. Nobody has done more as a player in Calgary than Jarome Iginla. You can’t help but respect them. But this notion we’ve been in contract talks with them is rumour and I’m not going to comment on them.”
“Are we going to go to camp with the group we have? Good chance. Are we poking around at a few things and could there be additions before camp? Yes.
“Is that a guarantee? No.
“I wouldn’t say there’s anything significant on the horizon, but we look at everything every day.”
Comparables could put Bennett’s salary in the $2.5 to $3 million range. Treliving says they will get Bennett signed.
“Every contract is unique and takes it’s own course. We’re working away at it and we think Sam is going to be a good player in this organization for a long time. He’s growing and I know he’s had a good summer. We’ll keep banging away at it.”
Forward Mikael Backlund will be a UFA after this season, and GM Treliving said there is plenty of time to work on that deal.
