Will Johnny Gaudreau demand a trade?
Sportsnet: Elliotte Friedman reports the agent for Calgary Flames restricted free agent winger Johnny Gaudreau said his client isn’t asking for a trade. Gaudreau’s agent said his last contact with the Flames was on Sept. 9. Flames GM Brad Treliving said he’s not going to negotiate publicly, adding he remains confident the two sides can reach an agreement. It’s been reported the Gaudreau camp seeks a contract in the range of $8 million per season, while the Flames want him signed to a deal between $6.3 million to $6.75 million.
Scott Hartnell rescinds trade request
The Hockey News: Earlier this summer, Scott Hartnell agreed to waive his no-movement clause and provided Blue Jackets GM Jarmo Kekalainen a list of acceptable trade destinations. However, he’s now changed his mind and rescinded his trade request. Hartnell said he didn’t want uncertainty hanging over him during the upcoming season. He also said he still believes he can be a contributor for the Jackets.
Edmonton Oilers still looking to trade Nail Yakupov
The Hockey News: It was anticipated Nail Yakupov might be packaged for a defenseman, another struggling young player or a couple of draft picks. Yakupov’s struggles and his $2.5-million salary-cap hit for 2016-17 hurt his trade value this summer. Over the course of this season, however, a stronger performance in a contract year could make him more attractive to rival clubs.
Las Vegas could make trades before expansion draft
TSN 1290: Pierre LeBrun reports the NHL is looking at allowing its Las Vegas expansion franchise to make trades three weeks before the expansion draft. That means they could start swinging deals on June 1.
