Will Andrei Markov return to the Montreal Canadiens?
The Fourth Period: With limited options available in the free agent market, the Montreal Canadiens may look to an old friend to suit up for them this coming season. Veteran defenceman Andrei Markov, who spent last season in the KHL, has expressed interest in returning to the Canadiens this coming season. It’s unclear if the Canadiens are interested in having Markov return for the 2018-19 season, but talks may gain steam. Markov, 39, registered five goals and 28 assists for 33 points in 55 games with Ak-Bars Kazan of the KHL this past season.
San Jose Sharks looking to add a top-6 forward
The Fourth Period: San Jose Sharks GM Doug Wilson has been exploring the trade scene for the last few weeks, having been linked to showing interest in Columbus Blue Jackets left wing Artemi Panarin, Montreal Canadiens captain Max Pacioretty and Carolina Hurricanes left wing Jeff Skinner, among others. A source close to the team told TFP prior to the NHL Draft that San Jose’s mandate was to add a top-six forward this off-season. The Sharks currently have just over $14.4 million in salary cap space.
Will the Florida Panthers trade Nick Bjugstad
THE ATHLETIC: Nick Kelly reports Florida Panthers forward Nick Bjugstad has been the subject of trade speculation. He cites a recent interview by Bjugstad’s agent, Ben Hankinson, claiming the Minnesota Wild, Montreal Canadiens and Pittsburgh Penguins have at times expressed interest in his client. However, Hankinson said Panthers GM Dale Tallon told him there’s no chance the 25-year-old forward gets traded. The agent acknowledged no player is untouchable but said the price for Bjugstad “has gone up.
