Hey there and Happy Holidays Hockey World!
Some quick hits amidst your shopping and this trade freeze..
1. Anze Kopitar's deal is very close to being announced I am told. A source tells me that "any moment now this deal will be announced and it will be a good marker for Stamkos…"
2. The Ducks and Canadiens have renewed talks and could possibly announce something soon after the freeze is lifted. According to a source, "The Ducks are doing all they can to avoid firing Boudreau..it is very hard to tell if they may be resigned to moving in a new coach at this point, as they are running out of possible trade partners. All that said, the Canadiens have become a big factor. When these teams got together a year ago on the Smith-Pelly deal there were some larger deals being discussed as well…that appears to have been revived.."
3. Montreal and Winnipeg are also keeping a close eye on the Flyers in hope of perhaps grabbing some insurance up front. Both teams like Couturier, but I am told he is "essentially untouchable." Simmonds and/or both Schenns could be moved…
more to come.