Western Conference News: Avalanche, Ducks, Blackhawks and Wild
Ryan Kesler and Hampus Lindholm
On the Colorado Avalanche …

Adrian Dater: The Avalanche signed defenseman Nikita Zadarov to a two-year contract worth $4.3 million

On the Anaheim Ducks …

Eric Stephens: Ducks coach Randy Carlyle said that Rickard Rakell would play center this preseason.

Eric Stephens: Ducks GM Bob Murray said that they are hoping that Ryan Kesler will be back by Christmas, but there isn’t an official timeline. Kesler had hip surgery on June 8th.

Eric Stephens: Murray also said they hope to have Sami Vatanen and Hampus Lindholm back by the start of November.

On the Chicago Blackhawks …

Mark Lazerus: Defenseman Michal Rozsival didn’t pass his physical and is not cleared to participate yet.

On the Minnesota Wild …

Michael Russo: Coach Bruce Boudreau said that Zach Parise is day-to-day. They don’t think it’s serious, but they are being cautious.