Rumor that Jonathan Drouin could be available
Eric Engels of Sportsnet: Montreal Canadiens forward Jonathan Drouin didn’t finish last season well and his preseason play may have some wondering where he fits with the Canadiens this season.
Drouin has been tried with different centers. He played a team-low in ice time on Monday against the Maple Leafs.
“His name is definitely out there,” texted an Eastern Conference executive during Wednesday night’s game.
Drouin is entering the third year of his six-year deal that carries a $5.5 million salary cap hit.
Any trade now would be selling at a low point. The Canadiens sent Mikhail Sergachev to the Tampa Bay Lightning for Drouin in 2017.
Eric Engels: Montreal Canadiens GM Marc Bergevin on the report that forward Jonathan Drouin is on the trade block: “I don’t know where they come from. Most of those reports are from somebody in his basement in Toronto, so I don’t pay attention to that to be honest with you.”
Eric Engels of Sportsnet: Jonathan Drouin on the trade rumor report.
“I don’t have a take on it,” he added. “I’ll let you guys tweet about it and talk about it. That’s your job, it’s not mine.”
The Penguins are trying to trade a goaltender, as well as a few others
NHL.com: Pittsburgh Penguins GM Jim Rutherford said that goaltender trade market is heating up. Matt Murray is the starter, with Tristan Jarry and Casey DeSmith battling for the backup role.
“Conversations are going on,” Rutherford said. “If someone wants to make a trade, then there’s a good chance we will do that. Otherwise, we’re either going to keep all three on the roster or hope one of them clears waivers.”
Rob Rossi of The Athletic has also reported that the Penguins are willing to trade Jack Johnson, Bryan Rust and Nick Bjugstad.