With the expansion draft just days away, GMs around the NHL are burning up the phone lines.
- It sounds like the Bruins are one of the teams pushing for Wild defenseman Jonas Brodin, who along with fellow blueliner Matt Dumba has been in rumours with the the expansion draft looming. The Wild simply can't protect all of their defensemen and have to make a move. The curious thing about the Bruins being interested is: how would they acquire Brodin without losing someone significant to Vegas as a result? Difficult, complicated decisions approach for all 31 GMs.
- People close to Kovalchuk apparently believe the Rangers are out of the running to sign him. It's still not 100% he returns to the NHL this season, but if he does, the Canadiens, Panthers, Lightning, Maple Leafs, Sharks and Blues are places he'd consider.
- Are Dion Phaneuf and Keith Yandle available? They may very well be, considering their respective teams have reportedly asked them to waive their no-trade clauses for the Vegas expansion draft. Both clubs likely hope Vegas will pass on both players for one reason or another, but if there's any indication to the contrary, it could force the teams into a trade.
- Another name that has surfaced is Predators forward James Neal. A rumour suggests he could be available in a trade due to the pressure the expansion draft puts on the Preds roster. Otherwise, they might lose him for nothing.
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