Former Canadiens defensemen getting some NHL interest again
Andrew Zadarnowski: Former Montreal Canadiens defenseman Andrei Markov has received three NHL contract offers and one from a KHL team.
Canucks and Oilers have/haven’t talked Lucic-Eriksson
TSN Radio Vancouver: Jason Gregor: “I heard from a really good source that Jim Benning and his staff did sit down and discuss a Loui Eriksson for Milan Lucic trade. I see it from both sides. Here’s our bad guy for your guy who’s underachieved. I was told it happened in April, May, this offseason.”
TSN Radio Vancouver: Bob McKenzie on TSN 1040 radio: “When I first heard the Lucic for Eriksson talk, I initially thought “oh that’s creative, fans and media thinking about how to get rid of a problem”. Like a fantasy thing you sometimes talk about. But do I think it’s within the realm of possibility?”
TSN Radio Vancouver: McKenzie continued: “As of recently, there were no conversations between the teams on the subject matter. But that’s not to say there won’t be, particularly as we get closer to the draft. I would think you’re dealing with close to an untenable situation on both sides.”
TSN Radio Vancouver: McKenzie continued: “But as of right now, no tangible discussions. But I think it’s one where it’s worth keeping an eye on, as it might turn out to be something that has some legs.”
Senators looking long-term with a couple of defensemen
Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun: New Ottawa Senators coach D.J. Smith still needs to find himself some assistant coaches.
The Senators have spoken with defenseman Thomas Chabot about a potential long-term extension. He’s eligible to sign one after July 1st.
The Sens have also spoken with restricted free agent defenseman Cody Ceci about a long-term deal. If they can’t work out a deal it wouldn’t be a surprise if he’s traded. They are expected to be able to reach a deal.
It’s looking like the Senators will trade to trade defenseman Ben Harpur by the draft.
They need to decide if they are going to re-sign RFA Anthony Duclair. UFA Brian Gibbons could return but likely not for Magnus Paajarvi and Oscar Lindberg.