So we have reached a definite lull in the proceedings... (the "watching paint dry" part of the draft so to speak...)
I just talked to a team rep who said that his Gm and scouts are starting to evaluate what they have and now they are going to figure out whether or not to adress issues via trades or UFA's. History tells us that there is a bit of a pause in the rumor world while this happens...
If you have any questions for me feel free to throw them into the comment thread of this blog or tweet me @eklund starting with the phrase, "What the ek...."
I will copy and paste the questions and answers into this post.
Cheers and thanks for your support.
Now for some Q & A
**************** Capsnut: Ek, do you have Caps rumor or two to share at the moment?
Ek: The Caps have been very much focused on speed. They felt the Penguins forwards were quicker and they need to match that. I know they love Eberle, but it looks like RNH and Yak are the ones Edmonton is willing to move. I would look to free agency for them
***************** woopstash: How come your rumours never happen?
Ek: Actually every rumour happens as a rumor.:) If you are asking why most rumors don't turn into actual trades, signings, etc....its simple..for every move that happens probably at least 100 discussions take place. My job is to report on those discussions...hopefully you enjoy hearing about that part of this process. If you don't thats ok. No hard feelings. it is a big internet.
***************** cap1681: Are the Pens a player in the Yak rumors?
Ek: I haven't heard that. The Oilers are really looking for experienced D, but can you imagine how good Yakupov would be playing with other skilled players like those on Pitt? In his brief time with McDavid he looked outstanding.
******************* Iggysbff: In your opinion did Chayka get schooled by Holland or the other way around?
Ek: Great question. Been thinking about that one. I think Holland schooled him completely by getting that first rounder who was originally the Rangers when Chayka clearly knew that Holland was stuck if he wanted to make a run at Stamkos...
******************* Ur Not Me: Do u really get paid for this....???
Ek: Indeed. I am so fortunate that I can do this and not only get paid, but I can pay a couple dozen others who work for hockeybuzz. I am so thankful to all the readers of the site for their devotion and spreading the news to their friends.
******************* wbon22: Are teams looking to take a breath and then start looking to make trades/negotiate leading up to 7/1, or are we in a serious holding pattern until 7/1?
Ek: I think some you'd find teams who fit into both categories. I would expect the trades to pick up on Monday after some evaluation this weekend.
******************* Bob_Loblaw: Why did the Stars give up on Jack Campbell? I heard he was finally starting to get it together.
Ek: He has had confidence issues and they just don't have a spot for him at this point...They did him a favor and moved him to a place with far less depth in goal.
******************* usmcaaron: So Boston & Buffalo passed on Shattenkirk. Which team left (EDM, MTL, TB, NYR, PHI, mystery team) seems most likely to meet Armstrong's asking price?
Ek: don't be so sure Boston doesn't get back into this. That price could change a bit. Edmonton and Montreal (and Arizona) are all still definitely possible.
******************* Devils622: Will NJ be active in free agency or are they more likely to make a trade?
Ek: From what I am hearing probably 70% through free agency and possibly 30% trade. I know many are upset with Shero not being aggressive so far....I think they will be much happier two weeks from now.
******************* Jamincito: You mentioned nj and calgary were having trade talks. Are they still talking and who'd you think is involved?
Ek:for now those talks are off. it was regarding a player they wanted to draft at the time.
******************* the_eye: C'mon EK,even I can see they're trolling you...
Ek: Really? I am new to this whole internet thing so I will take your word for it.
******************* Fences:Ek what would a sign and trade cost a team in order to get Stamkos?
Ek: starting to hear that is a growing possibility. Would take a ton I would think, but I have yet to hear anything specifics.
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@KasparianKevork: Hello, Can You Please Explain To Me How A Team Like The Bruins Can Go From Winning The Stanley Cup In 2011 To Bottom Dwellers?
Ek: Honestly I think you are being a bit hard on them. They are still competitive and had a few very good runs. Winning a Stanley Cup often makes a team make moves to over pay players..
****************** @croftysays: have you heard any interest in vanek? Can you see vanek returning to a former team like montreal?
Ek: Not to Montreal, but possibly to Buffalo...
****************** …@stevemo0927: what the ek. What do you think the #isles are going to do via UFA and trades!?!? I doubt we have a shot at @RealStamkos91
Ek: They think they have a legit shot at Stammer, but they also really like Yakupov and RNH. Also just heard Lucic was on the radar. I think this will be the most interesting uFA period since Garth has taken over.
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I will be back to answer more in a bit...making some calls. Thanks for the questions.