With the holiday trade freeze finally over, which was very evident after today's deal between Columbus and Washington, expect things to really pick up on both the trade front and the rumour mill.
For those who missed it, The Washington Capitals traded team captain Chris Clark and defenceman Milan Jurcina to the Columbus Blue Jackets for winger Jason Chimera. This helps Columbus' need for defense, while it gives Washington another option up front. I expect Washington to go out and get another defenseman before the deadline, and rumours are flying today that that player could come from Toronto. Ian White or Tomas Kaberle are the only two that would make sense. Either way, Washington now has almost $5 million in cap space, and they are going to use it.
While there are some rumours that seem so far-fetched I don't report them, a pretty strong source of mine texted me today saying "We know Dion and Calgary are growing apart, Caps love this kid, and Semin would look pretty good beside Iggy". Speculation? Rumour? I couldn't get clarification either way, but it's something to keep an eye on. Yes, Semin just re-upped, but one year deals are always curious, as they are often done to increase trade value.
How on earth do the Habs trade Halak? I'm still hearing St. Louis loves this kid and is trying really hard to get him. Gainey is in a tough spot right now. He'd love to hold onto him to the deadline, but his value will never be higher than it is right now. Can we really count out Carey Price being traded? I don't think so...
In Philly, the Flyers are playing better but Jeff Carter is still available. The asking price, however, will be high. Philly wants a top d-man and a pretty good prospect in return for Carter. Leafs still wish Kaberle would bring Carter and a 1st back, not happening. The Kings LOVE Carter and some have to wonder if Steve Bernier could be in play.
I apologize for the lack of updates lately, December was crazy busy for me, as well I was sick for a week plus took a week vacation to Las Vegas. Things should be back to normal soon.
Exciting news, we are starting work on a new website which we hope to have ready sometime around the trade deadline. Also, next Monday I start my intern position at the Hockey News, which can only lead to me more sources and thus lead you to more rumours. For the latest, make sure to check out
http://www.hockeyleaks.com
http://www.twitter.com/hockeyleaks
