Canucks-Edler talks at a standstill
Rick Dhaliwal: Contract extension talks between the Vancouver Canucks and defenseman Alexander Edler are at a standstill. The sides can talk after the trade deadline as well. Don’t see the Canucks trading Edler.
Iain MacIntyre: There is nothing new to report on the Edler front. The sides are still talking about term and other parameters for an extension. Even if there is not deal in place by Monday, there is almost no chance that Edler would waive his no-trade clause and gets dealt.
J.D. Burke: “Again, the #Canucks can’t afford not to try and move Edler under these circumstances. The possibility obviously exists that he doesn’t waive and this is all a moot point, but they have to try.”
Canucks GM Benning on the trade deadline
Vancouver Canucks: GM Jim Benning when asked about his trade deadline plans: “If there’s a hockey deal out there that we can make to improve our group & give us a chance to be competitive down the stretch, we’re going to look at that.”
Rental targets for the Flames
Wes Gilbertson of the Calgary Sun: The Calgary Flames are usually not in on the rental market but it’s looking like this year could be different.
Flames GM Brad Treliving last week on Sportsnet 960.
“This is the first time since I’ve been here that I can see us being in the rental market.”
Five potential rental targets for the Flames
Mark Stone – right wing – A swinging for the fences type trade.
Mats Zuccarello – right wing – They likely won’t get him for a bargain price. He’ll be a top trade target for several teams.
Wayne Simmonds – right wing – Somewhat struggling this season but should still score 20 goals. Brings “snarl and tenacity.”
Patrik Nemeth – defense – The rental market is thin on the blueline. The Flames have been linked to him. The Avs are in the playoff race and may not want to trade him team that they could face in the first round.
Kevin Hayes – center/left wing – Hayes and Johnny Gaudreau have been friends since they played in Boston College.
