No major changes coming for the Flames
Eric Francis of Sportsnet: Calgary Flames GM Brad Treliving takes the blame for their recent struggles, saying it starts with the manager and that he has been “horse**t”
Treliving has been asked about potential changes over the past few days.
“The coaches aren’t going anywhere. Our top players aren’t going anywhere.
“In life, in general, you’re going to face difficult times. I met with the group today, and at the end of the day if a six-game losing streak is the most difficult thing you’re going to face in life you may have some issues. Let’s deal with it, let’s be honest with each other and let’s hold ourselves and each other accountable. We’re the ones who are going to get out of this. There are no saviours coming.”
Johnny Gaudreau isn’t going to be traded in option.
Capitals and Backstrom talking extension
Sportsnet: Elliotte Friedman notes the Washington Capitals and Nicklas Backstrom have started talking contract extension.
“I’m told Ron that he has begun talks with the Capitals without an agent,” said Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman during the Headlines segment on Hockey Night in Canada. “I would think that would probably be a good sign for the player and the team that they feel they can get something done together.”
Blues watching the Maple Leafs
Maple Leafs Hot Stove: Chris Johnston on Sportsnet last night noted that St. Louis Blues GM Doug Armstrong has been watching the Toronto Maple Leafs this season.
“Johnston: Doug Armstrong is here of the St. Lous Blues and he is also here with his VP of Hockey Operations, Dave Taylor. Whenever you see two senior executives from one team, it raises the eyebrows.
This is the second time Armstrong has watched the Leafs this season. They’ve had a number of senior staffers around Toronto games this year. That is something to watch as we get closer to the trade season.
Friedman: I do believe the Leafs would like to see how this team performs under Keefe. So far, it’s looking pretty dynamite. I do think they’d like to see how things continue to go before doing anything, but maybe somebody else can tempt them.”