So I have returned from my beautifully relaxing trip to Las Vegas, and return to provide you all with the latest rumours.
Let's start in Toronto, where I am hearing a package of Stempniak and one of White/Van Ryn could be on the move for a 2nd Round Pick (2010 or 2011, depending on what the team has available). One team I've heard interested in this sort of package from the Leafs is Nashville.
Both Montreal and Ottawa continue to look for a little bit more help on the blueline. While the Scott Hannan rumours you are hearing appear to be false, I can tell you that both teams do have interest in LA's Jack Johnson.
Speaking of young d-men who could be on the move, one source told me that Chicago's Duncan Keith could be had for the right price, which Chicago is setting at a first round pick + or a couple of quality prospects. Chicago understands their cap situation and is looking to improve it.
Another team looking to make one final move is the New York Rangers, who many are predicting to finish out of the playoffs. This team would love to add an established player down the middle, and Nathan Horton is a name floating around a lot. The Rangers would love to dump one of their overpriced d-men but that isn't going so well.
You don't hear too much about the Carolina Hurricanes, but you are going to start. The Hurricanes have a ton of key UFA's after season's end, including Walker, Cullin, Whitney, Corvo, Ward and Wallin. Add to that, Cam Ward is an RFA following this season. Expect big changes to come in Carolina if this team gets off to a slow start.
Mats Sundin remains a big question mark, and with Vancouver up against the cap it looks like he's played his final game as a Canuck. The Rangers are always an option, while the Leafs could finally give Sundin the winger he deserves in Kessel. I'm not saying it's going to happen, but never say never. I've always believed Sundin could finish his career in Toronto, and this would be the season to do it.
If you want in the Hockeyleaks.com yahoo pool, the draft is tomorrow night at 10 pm. Send me an email at cjohnson202@hockeyleaks.com if interested.
And yes, my season predictions are coming, I am just waiting a few more days to see what other dominoes will fall before the puck drops on the 2009/2010 season.
