Helene Elliott of the LA Times: The LA Kings are still the front runners to land Ilya Kovalchuk. The Kings may also look at signing Paul Martin and Dan Hamhuis, if they are available. They will have to keep in mind that Drew Doughty, Jack Johnson and Wayne Simmons will be RFA next season, so they can’t let their salaries get out a whack.
Larry Brooks of the NY Post: The Rangers are close re-signing tough guy Jody Shelley, possibly to a 2 year deal worth around $850,000 a season. Erik Christensen rejected a 2 year deal for about $1.5 million, and will become a UFA.
Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: The St. Louis Blues have been talking with defenseman Carlo Colaiacovo and Mike Weaver, but all sides don’t appear to be close and they will probably hit the open market.
Ben Kuzma of the Vancouver Province: Despite acquiring Keith Ballard at the draft, the Vancouver Canucks are still on the lookout for defenseman. The Canucks had a terrible time last season with injuries to the blueline, so they’ll be looking for inexpensive, non-injury prone Dmen. Kevin Bieksa is a $3.75 million cap hit, is projected as their 5th defenseman, and could be moved for a ‘battle-tested forward’.
Michael Russo of the Star-Tribune: If Saku Koivu wants to join his brother Mikko in Minnesota, it’s probably his choice. Last season the Wild offered Saku a 2-year deal worth $8 million and 3-year for $10 million, instead he took 1-year at $3.25 million. He turned down the offer because “I wanted him to have his own privacy … and make his own name and career”. The Wild could use another centerman and may talk Saku again this year.
Vicki hall of the Calgary Herald: Though Ales Kotalik was placed on waivers by the Calgary Flames, he may not be bought out, but the team still has the option to do so.
