Radulov talking to NHL teams, could make decision in coming weeks
KHL forward Alex Radulov has arrived in North America to explore his NHL options. It's widely believed the Avalanche are the frontrunners, but the Leafs and Wild have been linked to the former Nashville Predator. Some rumours have pointed to the Capitals and Oilers as longshot candidates. UPDATE: add the Red Wings to the list of teams known to be pursuing Radulov.
Rumour tidbits
- The Habs are rumoured to be pursuing University of New Brunswick standout Francis Beauvillier, who was a Panthers draft pick in 2012 but was unable to make the jump to pro hockey.
- A lot of reports the last few days are suggesting the Rangers are ready to start a partial rebuild or "retool" this summer. If so, a big name to watch out for is veteran winger Rick Nash, whose name surfaced last summer as a player potentially on the move.
- The current list of teams expected to at least try for Steven Stamkos if he hits free agency on July 1st: Toronto, Detroit, Vancouver, Montreal, Minnesota, Calgary, Buffalo, Brooklyn, and, of course, Tampa.
- Regardless of who wins the draft lottery this Saturday, many expect the Coyotes to make a push for the pick. Speculation had the 'Yotes moving Oliver Ekman-Larsson for the top pick (which was quickly shot down), but the will to get local boy Auston Matthews is very, very strong. The first overall pick was last traded in 2003.
- The top UFAs rumour board as well as the general trade rumour board will be re-launching very soon. Probably before the end of the week.
