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Rumor Update: Feb 8, Hemsky and Sens(e3), Blues and Miller, Isles, Ott+ |
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Quick Update. The Rumor Chart will be finished tonight/tomorrow...at least it will be posted in the most updated form, but it will be constantly changing until the deadline. And yes, for those asking, there does appear to be some buzz around Feb 8, the Olympic trade freeze, and how this year's deadline could take place in two parts. The teams who are definite sellers could make their moves at this point to save money. There is no point in paying a player during the Olympics if that player isn't going to be with you long term. So we could see the salary dump trades leading up to February 8th, while the more "hockey trades" which see player swapping for player, will happen in the week following the Olympic leading up to TD Day...March 5th.
On Hemsky...
It really is beginning to appear that Ales Hemsky, who has had a recent resurgence, is playing for his career and next contract. That being said, his name is now truly circulating in the rumor mill and the team most interested appears to be Ottawa. The Sens are looking for some punch and Hemsky is definitely the sort of player Bryan Murray likes to pick up. Skill, size, skill....with a few lingering question marks...just to make it more interesting.
On the Leafs and Avs...
Were I to predict two team that will make a big deal before March 5th it would absolutely be these two. I can't go an hour without some source telling me, "They are setting things up." Or as one source hilariously stated, "It's an uncomfortable courtship, but it's working."
On the Blues and Ryan Miller...
I keep hearing that Hitchcock is targeting Ryan Miller and that Miller is not opposed to going to the Cup contender...The Islanders also want Miller, but I am told Garth Snow may bargain hunt and take Halak off of St. Louis' hands...allowing the Miller trade to happen. Halak could be the perfect fit on Long Island. Halak has always played better with younger teams that play less defense....In St Louis I believe he doesn't get the shots needed for his game to flourish.
On Ott...
The Sabres don't have any "untouchables," per say, but I am told that Steve Ott is one player Buffalo wants to really keep around for their rebuild, and from all indications Ott wants to stay as well.
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