When the Avalanche acquired Coyotes forward Mikkel Boedker at the NHL trade deadline it was assumed he was going to be a long term investment. Instead, extension talks seem to have broken down and Boedker is more likely than not to head to free agency on July 1st. Among the teams rumoured to be interested are the New York Islanders and Philadelphia Flyers, although many more should emerge. Boedker is just one of several elite pending UFAs in a star-studded and top-heavy free agency class.
Rumour tidbits
- There's a rumour out there that the NHL is ready to decide on expansion in the coming days. The NHL Board of Governors will have the final vote, while the NHLPA has already given their stamp of approval. A final verdict on Las Vegas' NHL bid may only be a week or two away.
- The Blackhawks are trying to convince Swedish defenseman Gustav Forsling to come to North America next season. Rights to the 19 year old blueliner were acquired in a swap with the Canucks last season.
- I'm pleased to launch the NHL Coaching Rumour Board, which breaks down each the coaching situation of all 30 NHL teams with rumours of potential replacement candidates. If you missed it, check out the new Trade Rumour Board and UFA Rumour Board.