Ice Scoopz: Thursday Afternoon

*-> The New Islanders have sent back prospect Nino Niederreiter back down to The Portland Winterhawks. The disgruntled Nino spoke out this week about being disapointed he was being sent down and that was the way things were in the league. The right move by the Isles in my opinion, he wasn't ready for the show yet.

*-> The Phoenix Coyotes are looking at Boston's Marc Savard it's being reported.

*-> Michael Vernace has been placed on waivers by the Tampa Bay Lightning.

*-> On to the Kirill Kabanov drama. It appears that Kirill Kabanov left 2 weeks ago to goto Russia for "personal reasons" but some are saying the Moncton Wildcats who have invested deeply in the Russian sniper have given up and have sent him home as a message. He has only played 2 games and has had the coaching staff in fits with his lack luster play. There has been no indication of any family issues or injury problems to justify him going home many are saying. Kabanov has no options to play in Russia as he has once turned his back on the KHL and is doubtful that the league will openly embrace him. The Wildcats are most likely stuck with him for one more season after this one so the rumors has them shopping the troubled Russian. The Lewiston Maineiacs are rumored to be highly intrested in Kabanov and this could be a situation which further decreases his value to not only Moncton but the Isles. He cant seam to stay away from drama evenif it may or may not be true. I personally still feel he's a great talent and just needs to mature and have good guidance going forward. Many of these stories are spun around and really theres no way to know why he was sent home but thats just me. There has to be some truth to some of these issues if this keeps being a reoccuring theme right? What do you guys think?

Ice Scoopz: Thursday Morning

*-> I dug a bit deeper with my source about the Ottawa Senators involved with Penner and or Wheeler. It appears that Brian Murray is definately interested in Penner but laughed about the Oilers parting with him right now. It's also a cap hit Ottawa can't take unless they can find a partner for the enigmatic Alexei Kovalev. He did however say that Boston could be a trading partner for the Sens because the Bruins scouts have been visiting. Nothing solid on ether but it does make sense on the Penner side of things. As for Wheeler it's something that could be visited if the Sens could pull the trigger on another cap clearing deal first. Murray has already addmitted that he would have to do a cap for cap trade. Jesse Winchester and Brian Lee seam to be the main candidates at this point.

*-> Montreal is set to add Andrei Markov back into the lineup Friday and will have to clear a body out on the backend to make room. It appears that ether Ryan O'Byrne or Alexandre Picard will be moved or demoted. Colorado is being speculated as interested in the big bodied Ryan O'Byrne. O'Byrne has fell fast out of favor with the Habs ands Picard has played himself back into the NHL with the Habs. I think that today or tomorrow morning one of the two will be moved or waived chances are it will be O'Byrne because he'll relieve the Habs of cap and is the only one with value at this point.

More around noon including another Kirill Kabanov episode/ rumor

Ice Scoopz: Wednesday Afternoon

*-> Quinton Laing formerly of the Washington Capitols has signed a deal with the Victoria Salmon Kings of the ECHL this morning.

*-> Rumors are swirling around the Boston Bruins the past few days. The Bruins are looking to dump some cap space in order to start making room for Marco Sturm and Marc Savard both of which are on long time injury reserve. Marco Sturm has been speculated as a possible salary dump but reports out of Boston claim Marco Sturm has not been asked to waive his no trade and will not if asked. The Bruins have been linked heavily to the Phoenix Coyotes and the Montreal Canadiens and GM Peter Chiarelli and his team of scouts were seen attending the Coyotes / Habs game Monday night then the Coyotes / Sens game last night. Its been rumored that the B's have been looking at Keith Yandle. The Bruins have been offering up Blake Wheeler as return for the Yotes. Montreal has also been said to be interested in Blake Wheeler as is the Toronto Maple Leafs. A deal should be coming soon for Boston whether a trade or the demotion of Michael Ryder to get set for the return of Sturm.

*-> While on the subject of the Leafs, Brian Burke has admitted to Toronto radio that he has had several offers the past week he's sitting on and wswilling to look at taking a heavy contract in return eating up cap space. Burke is very cap savy and has taken a unmovable contract on in the past ie. Olaf Kolzig. Many are still saying the Leafs and Dallas is one of the deals which would send Kaberle to Dallas for Brad Richards but i still think that Dallas wont move Richards unless they are out of the playoff picture. Bob McKenzie is reporting that it's two bottom half of the roster deals so nothing major on the horizon and this is just a ploy to stir up any offers out there. I'm guessing that he's right on this one. I can see the Leafs making a move they still want that center for Kessel. Wheeler could be an option but I think Burke wants to aim bigger. I'm thinking along the lines of Savard who is still reported to be unhappy with the B's for attempting to shop him this summer after signing him to a deal. Savard has said he'd waive his clause for TO.

*-> Dustin Penner to Ottawa is a rumor I'm looking at today. It looks like Murray is still high on Penner after trying to obtain last year in the Heatley ordeal. I'm trying to dig deaper in this one so we'll have to see.

Ice Scoopz: Monday Lunchtime

*-> The Pittsburgh Penguins have demoted prospects Eric Tangradi and Andrew Hutchinson to the AHL.

*-> The New York Rangers are currently debating within the organization on what to do with center Todd White. Todd White was invvolved in the deal that sent Donald Brashear to the Thrashers and has yet to find a role with the Blue Shirts. White is reported to be unhappy with his 4th line position and coach John Tortarella has said he has no clue what to do with White on the top 3 lines. The Rangers are expected to try and shop White to a team looking for help but theres not much interest out there at the moment. The Rangers have also considered buying White out but they do not wish to add another Wade Redden situation. White in an Ottawa native so many have been saying the Sens could be interested. It would have to be a dollar for dollar trade but the Sens would like to add offense up front and a physical defenseman none of which White is at this point in his career. A rumor involving the New Jersey Devils shipping Danius Zubrus to New York could make sense if the Devils still wish to dump cap and add a two way veteran.

*-> The Los Angeles Kings and the Ottawa Senators are reportedly in talks in regarding a defenseman.

*-> The Toronto Maple Leafs are highly interested in the Dallas Stars center Brad Richards as are the Los Angeles Kings. More on this in a bit.

Ice Scoopz: Monday Morning

*-> Erik Ersberg looks to be heading to the KHL or Sweden after the Los Angeles Kings terminated his contract after refusing to report to Manchester of the AHL their farm team. It was surprising that Ersberg cleared waivers because of the goaltending uncertainity around the league. Ersberg has been looking around the NHL for possible teams but the word is he's not having much luck and is unwilling to be a third string goaltender. Ersberg also has an offer in the KHL and several offers out of his native Sweden.

*-> Evgeny Artyukhin has signed a deal this morning with SKA St. Petersberg of the KHL. Artyukhin was hoping to remain in the NHL but due to no interest he was forced to take a KHL deal it was reporting.

More rumors around lunchhour.

Ice Scoopz: Friday Morning

*-> Veteran gritty center Stephane Yelle is expected to announce his retirement in the near future if he doesn't attract much interest in the near future. Yelle is currently working for the Colorado Avalanche as a scout and has a permanant position waiting for him with the Aves when he choses to call it quits. Expect him to retire shortly as theres much interest for aging veteran players.

*-> More rumors out of the Nations Capitol today defenseman Brian Lee is apparently the subject of interest out of Minnesota. Many are speculating struggling prospect and Minnesota native Lee could be included in any deal. The Wild have a history of taking risks on struggling underdeveloped prospects and it has paid rewards in the past. Guilliame Lattendresse is a prime example of a struggling prospect swap which leads many to believe a James Sheppard for Brain Lee deal. It's too early to tell but the Minnesota native card may work out for the Sens dumping Lee.

*-> Another Sens rumor this morning which I don't necessarily believe and many fans of the site will be posting angry comments but I shall report it anyways. ESPN remember not Ice Scoopz is reporting that the Sens are indeed shopping Jason Spezza once again. I'd like to say this has been beat to death and I cant see Spezza being sent anywhere as he has a no movement clause. Los Angeles is being linked on several other rumor sites but once again very very slim chance if theres even any chance in my opinion.

*-> Several KHL teams are courting Wayne Gretzky as a coach. Wayne Gretzky is being highly sought after in Europe but reports have said he prefers to stay in the National Hockey League rather than head to Europe. The KHL is offering ridiculous money once again to try and lure the Great One.

Ice Scoopz: Friday Morning

Good morning to everyone, here's some news from around the hockey world to kick start your Friday morning.

*-> Veteran and former all star Owen Nolan has decided to play elsewhere this season as their hasn't been any serious interest from around the NHL for him which is surprising to me. The guy is a great leader and instantly improves any teams locker room. He can still produce as well which is why it's a shame to see him head to Europe but on the plus side he brings tough North American hockey overseas for fans to enjoy over there. Anyways Nolan has signed a 1 year deal with ZSC of the Swiss Liga this morning. I believe there is a release clause in his contract so there may be an off chance of a return this season. He reportedly said as long as he can play the game he will so maybe next year...

*-> Nigel Dawes of the Atlanta Thrashers has reportedly been sent down to the Chicago Wolves of the AHL by his parent club.

*-> Theres a rumor going around the Vancouver Canucks have been pushing Kevin Bieksa hard around the league. They reportedly are seeking a Eastern team to make a deal with. The New York Rangers, New York Islanders, Ottawa Senators and the Montreal Canadiens have all been linked this morning. Western teams such as Los Angeles and Minnesota still remain interested.

*-> The Nashville Predators wont like this news, Alexander Radulov has signed a contract exstention with his KHL team Salavat Yuleav UFA. The deal is reportedly in the millions and is a 3 year deal. Now I'm not too sure but didn't the KHL agree to abide by NHL contracts and Radulov is still under contract technically to the Preds on his last year on his entry level deal. I can't see this being good for KHL-NHL relations especially since Radulov has been telling the Nashville organization he would like to return in the future. There may be an NHL release clause but it's doubtful at this point. Radulov clearly likes being a star in his home land. This is still breaking news so the Russian papers that have reported this one may have jumped the gun or it may have been lost in translation.

*-> Thomas Greiss of the San Jose Sharks has been loaned to Brynnas of the Swedish Elite League by his club after Anti Niemi and Antero Nittymakki closed any doors he had for the starting position in San Jose. The Sharks reportedly tried to find a deal but there were no takers off the bat but once injuries start taking a toll expect some interest.

Ice Scoopz: Wednesday Noon

*-> Steve Begin who played for the Boston Bruins last season has signed a deal with the Nashville Predators on a 2 way clause for 1 year. Good gritty heart and soul guy.

*-> Ottawa GM Brian Murray has told the media that after this mornings "bag skate" he is in the process of trying to make a deal to shake up his struggling club. Murray has admitted to talking to friend and fellow GM Fletcher of the Minnosota Wild and also putting the word out around the league that hes looking to swing a trade. The likely candidates include the enigmatic Alexei Kovalev, fragile Filip Kuba, tough guy Chris Neil, and also the new memebers of Cory Cloustons dog house after the Pittsburgh loss Jesse Winchester and Brian Lee. Murray is looking at any options to "help" his club and that includes everything from goaltending to defense to upfront. Defense could be a possibility with the team looking defensively weak recently since the departure of long time shut down guy Anton Volchenkov. The team attempted to address the issue today by recalling David Hale and sending down Zack Smith. If that were the situation it would have to be a D for D deal as the Sens have a fullhouse on the back end especially when Kuba returns. A name on defense that has been no secret Murray has liked for quite sometime is Brent Burns. Some rumors have put Alexei Kovalev and a prospect heading to Minny for Martin Havlat a former Senator in hopes of boosting the Sens attack. John Madden could be another candidate out of Minnesota as he's a -4 in 5 games and supposed to be Minnys defensive specialist but that one could be doubtfull as Ottawa already has 3 3rd lines. James Sheppard who still has yet to crack the Minnesota roster could be added or dangled as trade bait. Nothing's official yet but Murray has admitted to reaching out to Minnesota to try and make a "you help me, I'll help you" trade with the also desperate Wild franchise. This is one thats gunna attract lots of rumors and commentary over the next few days till something happens.

Ice Scoopz: Tuesday Afternoon

Not much going on in the world of hockey at the moment, a very quiet day indded. A couple small rumors now and an IR report this evening.

*-> Sheldon Souray continues to gain more steam with injuries to yet another former Souray interest the New York Rangers. Reports have the Blue Shirts eyeing the blueliner lately again looking at options to replace injured players and adding bodys before not able with many salaries off the books while on the IR. Still it's mere speculation for most pundits as the Souray news seams to be the only thing out there for the past dfew days.

*-> The Calgary Flames have claimed defenseman Brendan Mikkelson off waivers from the Anaheim Ducks today TSN reports. Mikkelson appeared in67 games last season for the Ducks.

*-> Forward Anton Gustafsson have been recalled by the Washington Capitols from the South Carolina Stingrays.

Ice Scoopz: Monday Night

*-> It appears Sheldon Sourays name is once again being thrown about in the rumor mills. Souray who has been playing down in Hershey for the Washington Capitols farm team has attracted interest from the parent club Washington. Some are saying this is a trial and first hand look for the caps. I'm not sold on this rumor as the Caps now have stand out John Carlson. It is possible howeever if injuries start to take a toil the Caps might make a push. Jeff Tambellini of the Oilers has told the media he still is pushing for a deal but talks are stale and he has 2 possible options. 1. to keep pushing a trade and wait or 2. place him on rentry waivers and hope someone claims him. It's said that the Columbus Blue Jackets still have interest as the Blue Jackets recently lost Mike Commodore. Dallas also still have Souray as plan B its been said. The Stars would need Souray on re-entry waivers if anything was to happen but chances are they'll wait to the new year to pursue Souray as he'll only be on the books for 1 final year January 1st. I wouldn't read too much into the Souray rumors because as long as he's still available his name will continue to be thrown into the mix.

*-> Alexei Kovalev is close to the block with Cory Clouston's patience wearing extremely thin. Kovalev is in the proverbial dog house within the Senators organization and has left him without many supports within the roster. Alfredsson is rumored to be trying to force an end to this situation. Kovalev has remained positive saying he knows he has to be better and the Sens have to stop fighting the puck. If everyone thinks positive their fortunes will change. That approach isn't going well so far for him and its no a secret the Sens would love to dump his contract and his underachieving ways. Not many teams would be interested in Kovalev straight out of the gates but as the season unveils they may find a suitor for hopes that he'll be an offensive boost for the playoffs. Its a situation we'll have to keep an eye on because unless the Sens start winning or atleast playing well somethings got to give.

*-> The Colorado Avalanche are currently shopping for a rugged defense with size. Peter Mueller is reportedly being dangled as bait but not many teams have defensemen to spare except the Toronto Maple Leafs. Mike Komisarek could be an option if the Leafs feel Luke Schenn and Dion Phaneuf are playing well. Another option is Ryan O'Byrne in Montreal would once Markov returns could be the odd man out.

Ice Scoopz: Monday Morning

I hope everyone's weekend went well. I had a busy but relaxing one, quite a bit of planning for my fall schedule. I'm working on a few projects for the site so hopefully they get going shortly and a regular flow and schedule will begin shortly.
Here is the weekend news you may have missed followed by this mornings rumors and news.

*-> Big Joe Thornton has agreed to an extension deal with the San Jose Sharks Saturday. Jumbo Joe will avoid free agency and remain a shark for the next 3 years. The deal is worth 21 million total. Great signing by the Sharks avoiding a huge distraction late in the season plus they got him at a bargain compared to the rest of the league.

*-> The Dallas Stars waived Fabian Brunnstrom and he cleared waivers and was assigned to Texas of the AHL while center Aaron Gagnon was recalled to fill his position.

*-> Stephane Veilleux has signed a deal with the Espoo Blues of the Finnish Elite league. Veilleux played last season for the Tampa Bay Lightning and had an unsuccessful tryout this season with the Bolts.

*-> Florida Panther Ville Koistinen is also headed to Finland to play with Ilves.

*-> A reported deal was being talked Saturday night before the Edmonton vs Calgary game. Its reported the two sides were unsuccessful but were in negotiations concerning Andrew Cogliano. Cogliano is reportedly high on the Flames want list and the Flames are looking to dump some cap space. The Flames reportedly offered veteran defenseman Corey Sarich and former Oiler Curtis Glenncross for Cogs. It appears the rumor is on hold atleast for now as both parties have not commented and nothing has taken place but that's not to say discussions didn't. To me Cogliano isn't really a good fit with Stajan back.

More later this afternoon including Ottawa, Colorado and Souray rumors.

Ice Scoopz: Thursday Morning

*-> Despite what many are predicting the New Jersey Devils may not make a move in the up coming days especially with Brian Rolston now on the Injured Reserve. This gives them some flexability to ice a roster consisting of more that 17 players. A deal has been rumored in the works with the Colorado Avalanche but reports have both teams still in the negotiation stage. Its said the Aves have their eyes on several players including Jaime Langenbruner but the Devils only want to part with Danius Zubrus. Eventually the Devils will have to make a move or two but now they have atleast 5 weeks to work on a deal.

*-> The Toronto Maple Leafs Jeff Finger has cleared waivers and will report to the Toronto Marlies. GM Brian Burke is reportedly shopping the cap space he has left to teams looking to dump a body. The Calgary Flames a close trading partner with the Leafs may be the best candidate.

*-> Petr Tenkrat has left Skelleftea of the SEL and is close to reaching a deal with SM Liiga's Karpat.

*-> Tyler Arnason of Dinamo Riga has been loaned to Biel.

*-> Tim Kennedy of the New York Rangers has been demoted and sent down to the Hartford Wolf Pack of the AHL. Bad luck this season for Kennedy.

*-> Dmitri Afanasenkov formerly of Lokomotiv Yaroslavl has signed with Traktor Chelyabinsk of the KHL.

Ice Scoopz: Wednesday Late Afternoon

*-> Kirk Maltby has decided to retire from the Detroit Red Wings instead of play out the season with Grand Rapids of the AHL and wait on being called up. Maltby is expected to be offered a spot with the club. Many are critizing the Wings for the treatment of their fan favorite grinder but its being said Maltby knew the situation before he signed on with the club over the summer.

*-> Adam Mair has signed a deal with the New Jersey Devils after playing with the Buffalo Sabres. Its rumored to be a 1 year deal worth 500K.

*-> Manny Legace has signed on in Germany with the Iserlohn Roosters after attending the New York Islanders training camp.

Ice Scoopz: Wednesday Afternoon

A couple of rumors for this sunny Wednesday afternoon.

*-> I've learned from my Senators source this morning that the Ottawa dressing room is reportedly in turmoil after a winless 3 game start to the season. I'm the first person to say that all these people panicking about the Sens starting off cold is ridiculous. Its only been 3 games and while yes they've looked bad their is still 79 games left. Lots of time to get sorted out. Leafs fans don't give up till at least 5 games in. I was listening to Ottawa sports radio after the loss Sunday and was disappointed as a hockey fan to hear how many people are already writing off the Sens in Ottawa. While I do believe Ottawa has been mismanaged the past few years and arnt the number 1 or 2 in the NorthEast I do believe they could surprise many going forward and in the playoffs. So onto my sources info. He has told me the dressing room morale is at an all time low already. Many of the players are disappointed with several players effort levels. Daniel Alfredsson is extremely upset with the slow start and has reportedly spoken to management already about the player in question and reportedly other issues. He is fuming with the Sens right now and it was apparent after he stormed off the powerplay against the Leafs. Not much else was revealed as management is keeping it tight lipped. One of the player in question is reportedly Alexei Kovalev my source believes. His approach to games has many players questioning his loyalty to the club. This isn't great news for the Sens Army but my source tells me that he expects the teams attitude to drastically improve once they win a game or too, morale should return to normal. My thoughts exactly, as I said not time to panic because of high hopes this season. We have to remember the only real change to the club was Sergei Gonchar and it is essentially still the same club who struggled last season. Maybe a shake up could get guys like Kovalev moving or playing elsewhere.

*-> Jeff Finger was waived yesterday and sent to the Toronto Marlies as the Leafs needed to clear space for the return of Brett Lebda off the IR. Jeff Finger will report to the AHL and a buyout may not be out of the question.

Happy Thanksgiving! Monday Afternoon

Hello everyone, just wanted to say Thanksgiving to all of our Canadian followers. I hope everyones dinners and weekend is going well here in Canada as mine has been fairly relaxing. I've got quite a bit done to help advance the site and the planned changes should start happening very shortly my webmaster promises so thats good news moving forward. Here's this weekends news to catch up on.

*-> Saturday morning the Boston Bruins announced Big Z and the club have come to terms on a long term contract extention that should keep the big man with the club almost certainly till he retires. Chara signed on for another 7 years with Beantown, the deal is worth 45.5 million overall. The Bruins get their stars sealed easily and quickly at the start of the season. Great planning by the management as now they have do not have to stress going forward about signing their big guns before the deadline.

*-> Mike Ribeiro is once again in trouble with the Dallas Stars organization. Ribeiro was arrested early Monday morning on a public intoxication charge with three of his associates at a Dallas restaurant. Joe Nieuwendyk has told the Dallas media that the issue will be dealt with by the team internally. Another strike against the Dallas "bad boy" or is it "bad attitude" Mike Ribeiro who has been rubbing the Dallas brass the wrong way since early last season. This should fuel a few more Ribeiro trade rumors in the next couple of days but the truth is unless Dallas can for sure secure Brad Richards to a deal they need Ribeiro to stay a float.

*-> Garnett Exelby has signed a deal to play with the Rockport IceHogs of the AHL.

*-> The Anaheim Ducks have signed Andreas Lilja to a 1 year deal worth 600K$ for the season. Lilja finally finds a home after rejecting several offers during the offseason. The San Jose Sharks reportedly balked at his asking price of 1 million dollars during training camp forcing the team to let Lilja head back to the market where injury woes forced the Ducks to search for some help.

*-> Staffan Kronwall of the Calgary Flames has headed back to Sweden on a loan to Djurgarden of the SEL. The Flames attempted to shop the blueliner to the East but found zero suitors. Kronwall would like to return to the NHL but only at the guarentee he gets NHL ice time.

Ice Scoopz: Friday Afternoon

What a goal last night by Jordan Eberle, a perfect fit to the start of the new National Hockey League season and to his career. The Oilers are going to be deadly in the next 3 years, just like the Penguins. Heres a few signings for the day. I'll have some more this evening.

*-> The Anaheim Ducks have signed Russian goalie prospect Igor Bobkov from the London Knights to a 3 year entry level deal.

*-> The Pheonix Coyotes also signed a prospect today as well as they inked Brandon Gormley to a 3 year entry level deal.

*-> The Boston Bruins have extended center Patrice Bergeron to a 3 year 15 million dollar deal this morning. Boston gets a deal done early so they don't have to panic down the stretch, smart thinking.

Ice Scoopz: Wednesday Afternoon

*-> The New Jersey Devils have made their way under the cap by putting Bryce Salvador on the IR. Its a temporary fix but they don't have to deal with ridding cap space till Salvador is healthy which will most likely be in the form of a trade.

*-> Sheldon Souray has been loaned to Hershey of the AHL, the Washington Capitols farm team.

Trade! Vancouver -> Florida

*-> The Vancouver Canucks have traded Darcy Hordichuk to the Florida Panthers for enforcer Andrew Peters.

Ice Scoopz: Wednesday Afternoon

*-> It looks like Jonathan Cheechoo may have found himself a home. He wont be suiting up in the near future for any NHL teams but will be heading to the Worchester Sharks of the AHL to try and work his way back to the big leagues. His former Shark connections may have pulled some strings, still not too sure if this is a tryout of he signed a deal but I'm leaning towards deal.

*-> Another try out candidate appears to have had the opposite luck than Cheechoo as Peter Schaefer is rumored to have an offer the Canucks have presented him. It appears to be a 2 way 1 year deal the Canucks brass have been leaning towards. We'll have to follow this one up, it's a little strange gicven the Canucks cap issues but if it's a 2 way deal they'd be able to relieve the hit by sending him to Manitoba to start the season.

*-> The Buffalo Sabres have surprisingly sent Matt Ellis and Jonas Enroth down to the Portland Pirates of the AHL.

*-> Steve McCarthy formerly of the Atlanta Thrashers and Chicago Wolves is heading to Finland to play for TPS.

*-> Erik Ersberg has been placed on waivers by the Los Angeles Kings after being dethroned by Jonthan Bernier. Ersberg does have quite a bit of interest around the league and if he isn't claimed the Kings may be able to work out a deal. The Nashville Predators, Montreal Canadiens and the Flyers are reported to be interested. The Chicago Blackhawks are reportedly happy with their tandem of Turco and Crawford heading into the new season.

*-> Niklas Persson's North American experience was a quick one. He has left the Tampa Bay Lightning organization and headed to the KHL for Neftekhimek.

*-> Former NHLer Eric Perrin has signed a 1 year deal in Finland to play for JYP.

*-> Alexander Burmistrov has signed a 3 year entry level deal with the Atlanta Thrashers as previously mentioned. Great signing for the Thrashers, he just needs to bulk up and he'll be a force.

*-> It's been reported that veteran Kirk Maltby has been placed on waivers by the Detroit Red Wings.

Ice Scoops: Tuesday Updates

*-> A little update on the Nashville - Vancouver deal, it looks like winger Dan Gendur was also sent Nashvilles way as well as Jonas Andersson heads to the Canucks as well. Ryan Parent has also been placed on waivers as the Canucks are still pushing to get under the cap.

*-> Michael Grabner was a waiver claim, which says a lot of about the state of the Florida Panthers organization. A guy like Olesz gets to keep getting chance after chance while a decent prospect like Grabner gets given away.

*-> Just a reminder the next few days should be active around the league as all NHL teams have to get under the cap by 3pm Wednesday so expect something out of the Devils and the Flames and maybe a follow up from the Canucks.

Ice Scoopz: Tuesday Afternoon

*-> It appears that Andreas Lilja was not offered a contract by the San Jose Sharks according to TSN.

Ice Scoopz: Tuesday Waiver News

*-> I'm hearing that it was a waiver claim by the Islanders on Grabner. It doesn't sound right as I'm not too sure why the struggling Panthers would dump a prospect like Grabner on waivers, it doesnt add up as he's almost certainly going to get claimed. I'll keep my ears open for more pieces of this puzzle.

*-> In other waiver news it looks like Mattias Ritola of the Detroit Red Wings was claimed by Stevie Y and co and he'll be headed to the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Trade! Vancouver -> Nashville

Another deal just went down as well as the Grabner deal.

*-> The Vancouver Canucks have cleared some cap space by trading Shane O'Brien fresh off waivers to the Nashville Predators for the often moved defenseman Ryan Parent.

Good move for the Canucks but knowing the Preds Ryan Parent will be back in the near future.

Trade! New York Islanders -> Florida Panthers

It looks like a trade is breaking out as I type, not too sure the return but I know the New York Islanders have just aquired Michael Grabner from the Florida Panthers. Stay tuned...

The IR: Tuesday

*-> It looks like the Rangers may be without their first line center as Vinny Prospal is looking at the option of season ending knee surgery. It looks grim as Prospal who had a decent season alongside Gaborik will most likely opt for the surgery quite possibly ending his season and possibly his career.

Ice Scoopz: Tuesday Noon

*-> Brendan Morrison found a deal late yesterday afternoon as he signed a contract with the Calgary Flames worth 725$ for the season. It's only a 1 year deal but it is on a 1 way contract unlike what the Vancouver Canucks were offering.

*-> Veteran Petr Sykora has headed back to the Czech Republic to play for HC Plzen following the latest waive of free agents without NHL deals heading to Europe.

*-> The Pittsburgh Pengiuins are reportedly looking at defensemen Marc-Andre Bergeron and Kyle McClaren it's been reported. The Pens need to add a depth D to bolster their backend. They may wait for the next waive of waivers before persuing a free agent.

*-> The Washington Capitols have signed goaltending stand out Philipp Grubauer to a 3 year entry level contract. Since Grubauer is European he does not have to report back to his CHL team the Kingston Frontenacs but can be sent down to the AHL which the Caps most likely will do.

*-> The New Jersey Devils have sent their future Swedish duo Mattias Tedenby and Jacob Josefson down to the AHL to play for Albany.

*-> It appears that several freshly drafted players will make their respective teams. Erik Gudbranson looks to make the Florida Panthers while fellow defenseman Cam Fowler will also make the leap for Anaheim. The Atlanta Thrashers are having a tough decesion on Alexander Burmistrov who has stood out all camp. Finally as we all know Taylor Hall (Edmonton) and Tyler Seguin (Boston) will be in the opening night roster.

*-> The KHL and the NHL has come to an agreement finally. The Russian league will now honor NHL contracts in the future as a legal binding agreement has been signed by both sides. Bill Daly has confirmed this agreement this morning with ESPN saying that there is nothing new for the NHL except now the Russians are on board. The strange part of all this is that Gary Bettman was quick to shoot down the idea of an agreement yesterday evening after the KHL North American embassador announced the deal. Bettman said there has been no talks and no forseeable deal for both parties. Bettman is still bitter with the KHL it's known and its rumored to be the main reason why the NHL is looking to pull the plug on sending its players to Russia to participate in the next Winter Olympics. We'll have to see how this story unfolds as it should be an interesting one.

Ice Scoopz: Monday Afternoon

*-> It appears this mornigns reports of The Flyers offering Bill Guerin a contract was false according to TSN. TSN has reported that Bill Guerin has been released by the Flyers. This doesn't necessarily mean a contract is not in the works but its doubtful as the short term rights to Guerin allowing other teams in the mix. Its highly doubtful at this point as TSN is usually bang on with few errors in their reports.

*-> TSN has also reported Ruslan Fedotenko has signed a 1 year deal with the New York Rangers worth 1 million. A good signing by the Rangers, Fedotenko has had a strong camp and is a great depth option incase of injury.

Ice Scoopz: Monday Noon

*-> Enver Lisin was released from the Atlanta Thrashers training camp this weekend but wasn't unemployed for long as he found work in the KHL with Metallurg Magnitogorsk.

*-> Veteran winger Miroslav Satan has signed a deal with HC Slovan Bratislava of the Slovakian Extra League.

*-> Marcus Nilson is close to finalizing a deal with Djurgarden of the Swedish Elite League.

*-> Erik Ersberg has found himself on the outside looking in as Jonthan Bernier has all but sealed the backup position with the Los Angeles Kings. The Kings are expected to try and push a trade to get something in return instead of losing him on waivers. The Flyers,and the Hawks, the two usual suspects may be interested.

Ice Scoopz: Monday Morning

*-> Veteran center Brendan Morrison was released last night from his try-out with the Vancouver Canucks. Morrisons agent isn't stressing however as several Eastern conference clubs have already put in bids for his clients. The Washington Capitols have had interest in the past but its doubtful they would get involved again. Toronto has been listed as a potential suitor as they no longer have the services of Wayne Primeau but source close to the Leafs have said not interested. The Ottawa Senators are another team linked but they are deep at center and already have an expensive back half. The Flames also could be interested reports say.

*-> Yesterday Darcy Hordichuk and Shane O'Brien were placed on waivers yesterday. O'Brien has attracted some interest around the league while Hordichuk isn't as popular. So far O'Brien's name has been thrown about the Florida media as well as Montreal. We'll know by noon today where both stand, if ether clear they'll be assigned to Manitoba of the AHL.

*-> Kyle Wellwood has signed a deal to play in the KHL after being released from his Phoenix Coyotes try out. He'll suit up for Atlant this season.

*-> Staffan Kronwall is waiting to see where he stands after he cleared waivers this week. He's expected to be assigned to Abbotsford of the AHL but he'd prefer to be loaned overseas to a Swedish club. The Flames are reportedly trying to make a deal to an Eastern conference team but if he went unclaimed for free its doubtful they get something back when theres a price.

*-> The Broadstreet Bullies have reportedly offered Bill Guerin a contract worth 1 million per season.

*-> Danius Zubrus or Jaime Langenbruner could be headed to the Colorado Avalanche. The Avs are barely above the cap floor as they are forced to start the season with Peter Mueller on the injured reserve. The Devil's desperatly need to shed cap sapce and the Avs are looking to gain a veteran center to replace Mueller and help out with the young guns. Zubrus has acknowledged he expects his name to be among the list of potential trades.

*-> The Jeff Finger situation is still up in the air, some are saying he has officially been placed on waivers and cleared some are also saying he has yet to be waived. One thing is for sure he is still on the Leafs roster. We'll have to wait and see on this one.

Ice Scoopz: Sunday Morning

*-> It looks like Jose Theodore agent was correct when he said his clients name value alone will bring teams to them instead of attending camps. The Minnesota Wild have signed Jose Theodore yeaterday to a one year deal after Josh Harding went down due to injury. The financial terms of the agreement aare yet to be realised.

Ice Scoopz: Late Friday Afternoon

*-> It appears that the Leafs have cleared some backend space by demoting and waiving Jeff Finger finally. Several reports claim the Leafs have told Finger he will be headed to the Toronto Marlies after clearing waivers as the odd man out. Its not yet clear whether a buyout will take place. He should clear but a defense starved team may take a gamble but its doubtful due to his albatross of a contract.

Ice Scoopz: Friday Afternoon

*-> Martin Gerber and Sheldon Souray have both cleared waivers and have been sent down to Oklahoma City. Souray is surprising as according to reports many were interested but rumors are rumors. The Oilers want and need him gone so expect them to try and push him to bail on the AHL and void his contract or try and push him overseas if he isn't claimed on entry waivers which should be the next step to shedding themselves of this situation.

Ice Scoopz: Friday Afternoon

*-> Pesky winger Darcy Tucker has called it quits today. The former Toronto Maple Leafs and Colorado Avalanche agitator told the media today he's hanging it up and will persue a career in broadcasting. Tucker said there was mild interest in him this season but has decided against a possible return.

*-> The Anaheim Ducks have place Brett Feasterling and Danny Syvret on waivers this morning.

*-> Andreas Lilja appears to be close to a deal with the San Jose Sharks. Lilja has told the Swedish media he will be heading to Stockholm with the Sharks and is currently negotiating a deal. He's performed well but I expect he'll have to take a 1 year and a pay cut I assume.

*-> The Sheldon Souray watch continues. I've heard that the Columbus Blue Jackets may have put a claim in. Some sources are reporting the New York Rangers now that Wade Redden is gone but I think thats mer speculation since Redden was just waived. I'm sure Sather doesn't want another disgruntled un movable defenseman. On the other hand the Rangers have a pretty green back end and could use some support incase one of the rookies falter. The Islanders have also been rumored since they too need defensive help with Streit now out. Count out the Kings I'm hearing as well.I