A kind of busy day today. First, Vinny Lecavalier re-signed in Tampa Bay. I know everyone has been hearing that next years crop of UFA's is going to be amazing, but it's not going to be that great. With all the big names signing long term deals this year, and all the RFA's signing long deals, there isn't much left. Samsonov will be a UFA next summer, but Thorton and Lecavalier won't be available for another 3-4 years. Lecavalier signed a four year deal worth 27.5 million. St.Louis is the next big name Tampa needs to lock up.
Some UFA action happened today as well. Glen Wesley re-signed with Carolina, it's a one year deal worth 1 million dollars. Alexander Mogilny went to the first place I said he would. If you go back and look at a blog I wrote before the lockout even ended, I said him and Joe Nieuwendyk would return to Jersey. Joe Joe didn't, but Almo has. Two year deal worth 3.5 million. It's about time Jersey did something, but Mogilny is a huge risk. He hasn't played his game since his hip surgery.
Curtis Joseph could sign with Phoenix as early as tomorrow. It will be a one year deal, and could be based on incentives. LA really needs a goalie, and with not much left you have to wonder if they're thinking trade. That team has a lot of young talent that they could move to get a guy like Kolzig. Nashville locked up Sullivan for 4 more years today. This is a great move by them, as Sullivan was playing the best hockey of his career last season for the Preds. Kariya will also benefit him. Brian Marchment has held talks with Toronto and Pittsburgh. Handzus to Edmonton is still a possibility. Rumour has Messier signing with Edmonton tomorrow.
The Sens are shopping Redden, but they are in no rush. They are pre-pared to start the season with him if they have to, and will make the best deal they can. Bondra is still linked to Atlanta, but is also apparently gaining lots of attention from Philly. They'd have to make a move to bring him in. Thats all for tonight, more to come tomorrow
