Steve Simmons: Some were wondering why the Maple Leafs didn’t trade Tyler Bozak or James van Riemsdyk for then Ducks defenseman Sami Vatanen. GM Bob Murray, or any other GM, wouldn’t trade a defenseman like Vatanen who is signed for two more years for a pending UFA like Bozak or van Riemsdyk.
It might have taken Nazem Kadri or Connor Brown and something else. Adam Henrique seems like a better fit for the Ducks than what the Leafs could have offered.
Kevin McGrann of the Toronto Star: (mailbag) GM Lou Lamoriello doesn’t have a contract beyond this season, but it shouldn’t be a surprise if they already have agreed to terms on an extension and to announce it during their ‘bye’ week.
When they move on from Lou, or when he moves on, Mark Hunter or Kyle Dubas are current internal options. A potential outside option would be Ken Holland, who is also without a contract for next year.
Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet: It’s difficult not to see the Penguins moving Ian Cole at some point, but it won’t be until GM Rutherford gets what is looking for.
With Cole’s agent being involved, there might be the possibility of it becoming more of a sign-and-trade.
can see the Toronto Maple Leafs and Colorado Avalanche’s interest (from Jason Mackey’s report). If the Penguins are also looking for a goaltender, the Maple Leafs also have Calvin Pickard and Garret Sparks in the AHL. wonders if the Chicago Blackhawks, Edmonton Oilers and may the New Jersey Devils would also be interested. Unlikely for Penguins to deal with the Devils though as they are in the same division.
There have been no contract talks between the Washington Capitals and pending UFA John Carlson.
Patrick Maroon could be the Oilers most likely trade chip. wonders if the Blues would be interested as they are looking for scoring depth.