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Ovechkin Update "Right on the Edge." Wings extend Osgood. Leafs Buyers?

January 9, 2008, 11:19 AM ET [459 Comments]
Eklund
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All sorts of reaction from the blog yesterday reporting the "crazy" rumour of Ovechkin possibly being traded to Nashville. The talks were confirmed last night by a Nashville sports radio station who talked to a source within the organization. Other sources confirmed people denying the rumour.

Is it going to happen? It is a way to soon to tell, and my job is not to make the trades just to find out who's talking to who, and share that with you. You take the time to visit here, and I owe it to you to report what I hear as long as I am fairly certain I am not being used by someone's personal agenda. The number one most important factor for me to consider prior to reporting a rumour is "agenda." And I don't blame people for their agendas. This is a big business and these are big dollars.

Talking to other sources last night and today I am also hearing that a deal to extend Ovechkin may be close as well. Maybe as close as this weekend.

This is consistent to what I reported in December when I was told that January would be the key month and that there was a strong possibility that an extension could be made in mid-January. But until it is done, it is NOT done, and the Caps would be negligent of their franchise were they not looking around a bit right now to see what the value is, should the deal get out of hand.

Of course contingency plans aren't exactly put out in press releases, nor should they be.

At the end of the day, I believe Ted Leonsis when he says that they will do everything possible to keep AO. Of course these are negotiations, and I am sure all parties know that until the check clears you don't spend the money.

One thing that is VERY clear: The AO situation is right on the edge right now and I don't expect that this lingers for very long. One way or the other this will be decided soon. I don't expect AT ALL that AO goes into the world of "offer sheets". Draft picks will not come close to what AO could get the Caps on the open market. So it is either trade or extend. I still, on January 9, 2008, believe an extension is the most likely scenario, however the longer this goes the more Ovechkin rumours are inevitably going to pop up.

If there is one thing that I have found teams owners hate is NOT being in control of a situation. Successful people are pro-active people. And all options need to be looked at--looked at privately, but definitely looked at.

Wings Extend Osgood


The Red Wings have reportedly extended Osgood for three years. This makes a lot of sense, and I am very happy for Osgood, who is one of the best people in the sport.

Leafs shopping for a big name?

The Maple Leafs are also rumoured to be inquiring about a player that could surprise you and if the deal gets done soon they may not be trading Sundin after all.

Watch these teams...

The Blue Jackets and Rangers are still in heavy talks.

The Ducks are also interested in making another move in the next week I am told.

stay tuned...
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