Post by eklund on Jun 14, 2008 10:30:56 GMT -5
OFFSEASON RUMORS
Kyle Calder - Is he officially done in New Jersey?
The two time 20 goal scorer seems to have found the end of his days in New Jersey. Unable to crack a roster spot in devil city, it is believed Calder has requested a trade, though there is no word on this as of late. His average salary will not create a burden on the Devils if they fail to trade him and decide to go with the buy-out route. Calder's worth is thought to be a 2nd round pick or a younger player. The 29 year old still has lots of gas in the tank.
Red Wings Sick and Tired?
The Red Wings GM was frustrated with his team's performance last season and has thus far done a complete rehaul. Lacking physical presence, they signed UFA Sean AVery, dealt for depth up center in acquiring Mats Sundin from the Leafs, as well as young guns Svatos, Wolski and Justin Pogge, and brought in former Wing Sergei Fedorov. But they still don't seem to be satisfied with their product, hinting at more moves in the coming weeks. "These guys know they aren't safe. We've stressed that since the season's end. They know what's going on here and they are all determined to prove their worth. We're constantly looking for ways to better our club. We've happy with Hasek in net, but his age has created a bit of skepticism back there and we still think Pogge is a year away. This team has to show us why we need them. It's sort of life by the sword, but they seem to enjoy it. I think we're going to surprise a lot of people this year if they can match their offseason excitement with their on-ice game."
Theo-door?
It seems the best remaining goaltender on free agency has narrowed his thoughts down to three teams. The teams believed interested are the Colorado Avalanche, New York Rangers and Chicago Blackhawks. The dollar range is believed in the 2M range, and that is pretty decent for a Vezina nominated tender. He's expected to make his decision, pending any late offers, within the next 24 hours.
Bye Bye Bernier... One to Join?
The Maple Leafs have found themselves in a bit of a pickle. They sit 4M over the cap, and are struglling to find a way back under. After impending RFA Steve Bernier was offered a 5 year 2.9M contract from Chicago, Toronto had no choice but to let him go. Bernier had played for the team for only 2 months after being acquired for prospect Alex Cherepanov. The Leafs are eagerly awaiting an opportunity to get under the cap and still maintain a solid core.
Canadiens No-Mo?!
The Montreal Canadiens are expected to announce the firing of head coach Guy Carbonneau and GM Bob Gainey. They are looking for a replacement and are thought to sign Colin Campbell as their new GM under the recently signed President.
Other Canadien news has R.J. Rumberger and Brian Smolinski packing up to leave the city. No word yet of where but they seem to be excited about it. Do I hear a requested trade whisper? N o one can be that happy to be dealt.
