Toronto Maple Leafs interested in Jack Johnson
TSN 1050: NHL insider Darren Dreger told Toronto’s TSN 1050 he wouldn’t be shocked if Maple Leafs general manager Lou Lamoriello called the Columbus Blue Jackets expressing interest in defenseman Jack Johnson. Dreger noted Johnson no longer felt he’s a fit with the Blue Jackets and requested a trade. Dreger said he doesn’t know for certain if there’s been dialogue between the two clubs but he’d be surprised if Lamoriello hadn’t inquired about Johnson.
Colorado Avalanche looking to add a top-6 forward
TSN: Pierre LeBrun reported the Colorado Avalanche would like to add a top-six winger to their roster, but the team is not about to rush into any decisions. According to LeBrun, Sakic may wait untnil a week before the 2018 NHL trade deadline to determine what direction to take. If the Avs are still in the playoff picture, they are likely to add and try to help their chances of securing a post-season position. Colorado has a significant amount of salary cap space to play with and can add just about any contract to its lineup, giving Sakic plenty of flexibility in the coming weeks.
New York Rangers looking to be sellers at the NHL Trade Deadline
TSN: The New York Rangers could be one of the more active teams between now and the NHL trade deadline, as they have multiple players they’re willing to move if the right offers present themselves. Darren Dreger reports the Rangers are “leaning towards being open for business” but they haven’t officially made that call, just yet. The Rangers have four pending unrestricted free agents they could move by Feb. 26: forwards Rick Nash, Michael Grabner and David Desharnais, and defenceman Nick Holden.
