Friedman rumor roundup
Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet: Both Los Angeles Kings GM Rob Blake and Ilya Kovalchuk‘s agent JP Barry wouldn’t comment on the situation. Multiple sources did confirm that the Kings met with Kovalchuk on Tuesday morning and then he left the arena. Options could include: “working on a trade; leaving the team; staying until his bonus is paid in December, then leaving; mutually terminate.”
The Kings have been trying to move him and maybe it becomes easier after his December bonus is paid out.
More than one source has said that they’ve heard Minnesota Wild’s Ryan Donato‘s name out there. thinks the Wild will be patient and other teams may just be checking in as he was bought in under the old GM.
The Buffalo Sabres continue to look for forward help, especially after Vladimir Sobotka will be out long-term.
The Toronto Maple Leafs don’t appear to be too concerned about their backup goalie situation. They passed on Louis Domingue twice, and there is no evidence that they inquired about Eric Comrie. Potential options include Wild’s Alex Stalock or Pittsburgh Penguins Tristan Jarry and Casey DeSmith.
Taylor Hall‘s agent Darren Ferris has a history with getting his clients to wait and see what their overall market is like before signing. It doesn’t mean he wouldn’t re-sign with the Devils, but doing an in-season deal seems more unlikely.
Pending RFAs Barzal and Dubois
Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic: Believe there has been some casual talks between the New York Islanders and Mathew Barzal but nothing too involved. Islanders GM Lou Lamoriello may prefer to wait until after the season, or later in the season at least. Barzal continues to put up points, so it only increases his leverage and they may not be in a rush either.
There have been no official talks between the Columbus Blue Jackets and Pierre-Luc Dubois‘ agent Pat Brisson. All sides have said they are willing to talk at any point. Likely some news in the New Year.
Friedman on Ferland
Sportsnet 650: Elliotte Friedman on Vancouver Canucks Micheal Ferland: “There was a lot of interest in Ferland. His camp made a pretty smart play & that was holding until they got a 4th year. Lots of teams were weighing it but Canucks made the plunge. I don’t believe for a second he was damaged goods, but everyone understood the risk”