July 10, 2008
Real-Time UFA Journal; continued!
 

4:50pm ET - I've got to head out to a dinner meeting, but please feel free to email me any other questions and I'll be sure to get to them tonight and/or tomorrow.

4:35pm ET - Getting a lot of emails from Habs fans, many of you are French. I grew up in Montreal, mes amis. If you'd like to email me en Français, vous pouvez. On to the Canadiens at hand. Majority of questions are related to how I think they'll do in 08-09. They lost Mark Streit, but gained Alex Tanguay. They got a little tougher by adding Georges Laraque. To date, I think they've done fairly well. Tanguay should be a nice fit for Saku Koivu. They'll definitely compete for top seed in the NorthEast, there's no doubt about that. However, last year they crept up on teams. This year, everyone knows how good they are. Carey Price will have the entire year to showcase his talents, as will Sergei Kostitsyn. Montreal has a lot of young studs in the farm itching to break through to the pro level, which could make management's job a little tougher come October, but I'm sure they won't mind. If Mats Sundin decides to join Les Habitants, that should solidify their spot as a top contender. If he doesn't, they'll still be in the thick of things in the East.

4:22pm ET - Running through some emails here... No timeline as to when the Hurricanes might trade Frank Kaberle. Talk is ongoing.... Not sure where all these Robyn Regehr rumors came from lately, but I've not heard anything about the Flames looking to move him. Frankly, I'd be pretty surprised.... Devils apparently had Brian Gionta out there as trade bait around the trade deadline, and it's possible he could be now. I've heard some rumblings, but nothing concrete to offer.... Teams can't attempt to sign Jay Bouwmeester to an offer sheet. When he filed for arbitration, he gave up the right to remain a "free agent." If a team wants him, they'll have to trade for him.

4:12pm ET - Touching on the Blackhawks: I spoke to two people close to the team this afternoon. They both told me that GM Dale Tallon is not in any rush to trade Nikolai Khabibulin. At the same time, they don't feel he has much of a desire to do so, at this point. The Hawks are looking to add a third-liner, preferably a center. They are looking for other ways to get under the salary cap, and Tallon appears comfortable he can do that in due time. Remember, teams don't have to be under the cap until opening night. While a deal involving Khabibulin is still possible (and the Kings seem like a logical choice right now, as they need a goalie and they need to add to their payroll), it's not a priority for Chicago. On a seperate note, it appears Martin Havlat's doing pretty well so far this summer and should be 100% come training camp. How long that lasts, however, is another story.

4:06pm ET - Some quick responses to some emails I've received... I've heard merely rumblings regarding the Penguins shopping Darryl Sydor, but nothing concrete. They liked what he brought during the Finals (I covered the Finals this year) when he did play, and while it's possible for the Pens could move him to shed some salary, I don't have any word on any imminent move... Nothing new on Ladislav Nagy... Leafs getting some inquiries about Pavel Kubina. Nothing close in that regard, either.

3:58pm ET - About Teemu Selanne. I don't have any updates in that regards, and there isn't much coming from his camp, either. There are whispers about Pittsburgh and Montreal being potential suitors, but I was told closer to the draft that Anaheim remains his only option. Now, that may have changed over the last two weeks, but as far as I've been told, there's nothing new to report on the Finnish Flash.

3:45pm ET - Returning to more emails, I've had some questions related to the Atlanta Thrashers. And yes, I think it's pretty obvious that they're in a little bit of trouble. The team wasn't able to land the players they originally wanted, although Ron Hainsey is a good addition (teams like Atlanta may have to overpay a little to lure certain free agents). GM Don Waddell has been looking for ways to improve his club. The drafted a stud on Zach Bogosian, and that's definitely a great sign, but they're a ways away from doing anything significant in terms of competing this season. Ilya Kovalchuk has a very similar mentality to Alex Ovechkin, in terms of a winning/competiting attitude. Kovalchuk wants to win, and that isn't likely for the Thrashers for some time. They have solid youngsters in place, but if they can't put up some W's, they risk losing another star.

2:30pm ET - Back in action and checking out more emails. I've had a few regarding the Lightning, asking me whether I like what they've done. For the most part, I do. Outside of how they handled the Dan Boyle situation (from what I was told, anyway), I like the additions they have made. Ryan Malone and Radim Vrbata will add the secondary scoring bunch they've lacked for some time. Veterans Gary Roberts and Mark Recchi will help the younger players, primarily Steven Stamkos. The addition of Olaf Kolzig should help Mike Smith progress in the right direction. Even the Boyle trade itself was a good one for Tampa; I like what Carle brings to the table. All in all, they've done some solid changes and SHOULD compete for a playoff spot next season.

1:00pm ET - Lunch break! I'll be back shortly to answer more emails.

12:40pm ET - Canucks sign Pavol Demitra! ... Strudwick's deal with Oilers if for 1-year.

12:35pm ET - Emails about the Kings: They continue to work on a deal for restricted free agent Patrick O'Sullivan. There's been some interest from other clubs, but at this point, it's uncertain if they'll go that extra step to sign him to an offer sheet (providing he'll accept). On the coaching front, it's been very quiet in that area. It looked like they were going internal, but I can't say for certain if that's still the case... On the Ducks: Nothing imminent (on the trade front) as of early this morning.

12:32pm ET - Just received a call that defenseman Jason Strudwick has officially signed with the Oilers.

12:30pm ET - On Dallas: The Stars are pretty much done. With Fabian Brunnstrom and Sean Avery in the fold, the team is happy with the moves its made... On Brendan Shanahan: Nothing new to report. Waiting to hear back from his camp, but nothing as of yet.

12:23pm ET - Going over some emails on the Flyers, and for the most part, I think they're done. As it stands, they're sitting at just over $60M and need to shed some salary in order to get under the salary cap ($56.7M). Their options are fairly limited at this point. If they can find any takers for Derian Hatcher ($3.5M) or Mike Rajthe ($3.5M), they'd jump at the opportunity, but there hasn't been any team interest at this point. Placing both on waivers and sending them down to the AHL might be their safest best, at this point, if they don't have any other options. It's either that, or trading Daniel Briere - and that isn't likely.

12:14pm ET - Regarding the Oilers and trade discussions... Unfortunately, I don't have much of an update on that subject. Other than hearing that they've been involved in some discussions, I don't have any insight as to who they're speaking with. I can only speculate, but that wouldn't be fair, or too professional of me, to do as I don't have any concrete info on it at this time.

12:00pm ET - A few emails asking me about the Maple Leafs, so I figured I'd get through those first. For the most part, once they straighten out their contract situation with Jonas Frogren, the Leafs are finished for the summer on the free agent front. Leafs GM Cliff Fletcher said he doesn't expect much activity over the next six weeks, but did hint that a change or two could still occur via the trade front. Pavel Kubina's name continues to pop up, with Jason Blake whispers in the background. They'd still love to move Bryan McCabe, but he doesn't want to leave - at least not yet. Other than their rookies training on a farm this week, there isn't much coming out of Leafs Nation.

11:25am ET - As mentioned, I'll be checking out your emails today. Thanks for all the questions and even the 'feel better' emails. I appreciate it.

JULY 9, 2008
The list continues to thin out, as most players are finding new homes this week. I'll be checking out your emails throughout the day.

3:06pm ET - Hi guys. The Yahoo! chat was great as always. Right after the chat, however, I passed out (benefit of working from home today). Anyway, I'm still under the weather and will try to get to your emails as soon as I can. Did I mention how much I hate the flu? Thanks for understanding! ...... In the meantime, I can respond to a bunch of emails asking me what I'd do if I'm Florida about Jay Bouwmeester. It's been widely reported, and we've been told the same, that he would welcome a move out of South Florida. Now, I haven't spoken to Bouwmeester personally, so I can't tell you for certain that's what he wants, but all signs point to him leaving the Panthers, eventually. If that's the case, and I'm FLA management, I'm stuck between a rock and a hardplace yet again. If they go to arbitration and he gets his one-year deal, that'll pretty much leave everyone wondering how quickly he'll leave next July. The Panthers may be forced to trade him. By moving Olli Jokinen, GM Jacques Martin said he's bolstered their defensive core. That might result in the team moving Bo for a scoring forward. And that might be the route they'll have to take. They can't afford to lose him for nothing, and they need a SOLID return for him if they do trade him. You've gotta feel for those Panthers.

12:45pm ET - Hey everyone. Sorry for the lack of journaling today. I've been hit with the stinkin' flu bug and it's been a pretty rough morning. I'm at home today, rather than the office. I'm going to be doing my weekly chat with Yahoo! at 1pm ET and once that's completed I'll start replying to emails on here.

JULY 8, 2008
Brendan Morrison will be signing today, but what about Pavol Demitra, Jason Smith and Ray Emery? It's been a week since the doors opened and just about everyone's locked up.

11:45pm ET - It's been quite the long day for me, and I apologize for the lack of posts, but I hope you can understand that needed to take care of my other responsibilities. Anyway, tomorrow I'll be going over emails for most of the day. Feel free to email me any questions/comments and I'll try to answer as much as I can here in my journal throughout the day. 'Til then!

4:49pm ET - Checking out some more emails, this time regarding the Blackhawks. I really like their signing of Brian Campbell. He's exactly what they've wanted. Campbell and Duncan Keith give the Hawks an extremely fast one-two bunch in their backend. And yes, I do like the addition of Huet. The Hawks will likely trade Khabibulin later this summer, and Corey Crawford should come in as the club's backup, behind Huet. They're going to be an explosive unit and definitely in the hunt for a playoff spot next season.

4:35pm ET - I've received some emails asking me about Montreal's "inactivity" and I've figured I'd throw in my two cents. I think a lot of Habs fans have forgotten about Alex Tanguay. Remember him? He's the guy they acquired from Calgary at the draft. He'll be able to supply some extra offense, and he could be a good match for Saku Koivu. The Habs wanted to bring in a big time forward, or two, and there's still a chance they get just what they want. Like I said, I like the addition of Tanguay, and Mats Sundin is still very much a possibility.

4:02pm ET - Sorry for the long delay. Updates will be spread out this week as I've got to shift some focus towards my other responsibilities. On a sidenote, I like Ottawa's signing of Jason Smith. The club needs stability in their own zone as their goaltending situation is somewhat questionable. A solid signing.

11:03am ET - Nothing new from the camps of Pavol Demitra and Ladislav Nagy... Same goes for Jason Smith. Pretty quiet all around, right now.

10:35am ET - Looks like Brendan Morrison is a Duck. He's apparently inked a one-year contract with Anaheim worth just under $3 million. This could signal the end of Todd Marchant's tenure with the club, but the Ducks are still looking to move Mathieu Schnieder.

JULY 7, 2008
It's a new week. A fresh start, perhaps? Brendan Morrison, Jason Smith, Todd Bertuzzi and Pavol Demitra lead the list of available free agents. Will they find their new home? Let's wait and see...

8:05pm ET - It's looking like the Anaheim Ducks have lured Brendan Morrison. TSN is reporting that a deal will be done, while sources have told me that an official announcement will be made tomorrow. There's plenty of speculation suggesting a trade will follow. While it's possible, the Ducks don't need to be under the cap until the start of the season. So far, without Morrison, Selanne, and some of their RFAs unsigned, they're sitting at around $54M. Add Morrison, and you're pretty much up there. The team has set an internal cap at $50M.

8:00pm ET - I've received a bunch of emails about Teemu Selanne. So far there's no real news on him just yet. I was told at the draft that he'll likely return, but things weren't set in stone.

4:33pm ET - Quick update on the Leafs. The team is receiving calls about Pavel Kubina, although nothing appears to be imminent.... I'm trying to get an update on both Jason Smith and Pavol Demitra. Both camps have been quiet over the last few days.

4:17pm ET - In speaking to a Chicago source, the Blackhawks do not appear to be in a rush to make any trades to clear up cap space. The club has until the start of the 08-09 season to be under the cap, and GM Dale Tallon is going to take his time. Goalie Nikolai Khabibulin remains the top candidate to be moved. In the mean time, the Hawks will be introducing Brian Campbell to the Chicago fans at a press conference set up for tomorrow.

3:55pm ET - Okay, here's the update on Mr. Morrison. According to a well placed source, an announcement regarding Morrison will be made tomorrow. It's believed he's making up his mind tonight and will follow that up by "an announcement tomorrow."

3:40pm ET - I will have an update on Brendan Morrison very shortly, waiting on a call back from a source.

3:32pm ET - To all emailing me about Martin Straka, here's an update: His agent, Ritch Winter, has told me that Straka hasn't made a decision yet. It's uncertain when one will be made, but it's expected within the early part of the week.

3:10pm ET - Have a few emails asking about the Kings. First off, they are trying to sign Patrick O'Sullivan to a new contract. There has been some interest from other clubs, but right now it's uncertain if one is willing to take that extra step and try to sign him to an offer sheet. The Kings are looking at a few other options right now, on the trade front, but nothing is imminent just yet.

3:03pm ET - Regarding Jay Bouwmeester... while there is interest in him from other clubs, it would be very difficult for Jacques Martin (Panthers GM) to pull the trigger on a trade involving yet another one of his stars. That being said, I've been told a few times that Bouwmeester's unhappy in Florida and will likely leave via free agency next summer. That being said, if the Panthers hold on to him, they may be forced to move him during the year.

2:50pm ET - Still on the email front, haven't heard anything "close" regarding the Senators. That can always change, mind you, but as of now, a deal isn't believed to be "close." The Senators have spoken to a few clubs about getting a deal done.

2:30pm ET - Checking over emails now. I've not heard anything relating to Joe Sakic's future in the NHL as of yet. I'm waiting to hear back from his camp about it.... Regarding Martin Straka, his agent has told me that the NHL isn't an option for him at this point and a decision was expected to be made today, still waiting on an update.

10:45am ET - Welcome to another week of UFA Watch: 2008! The updates will be a little less frequent today, simply because there are other areas of the business I need to start focusing on. As I mentioned last week, we're going through some changes here at TFP and I can't wait to show them to you... but not yet. Anyway, let's get to the topic at hand. I have a meeting at 11am, once that's complete, I'll return and answer emails, and provide any updates I have. Back in a bit!

JULY 4, 2008
With the bulk of free agents already locked up to new contracts with new teams, there are still a few left out there (Pavol Demitra, Todd Bertuzzi) and the trade winds are also blowing.

5:35pm ET - With the Boyle deal now over and done with (phew!), I'm going to grab something quick to eat before my chat with Boyle, which you can see on the site later tonight. So long for now, I'll return in a bit.

5:09pm ET - I will be speaking with Dan Boyle in about an hour (he won't be available until then). Just spoke to his agent, George Bazos, and he said Boyle's excited to be going to a Cup contender.

5:05pm ET - As the news story on our main page points out, Boyle and Lukowich go to SJ for Carle, Wishart, a 1st in 2009 and a 4th in 2010.

4:58pm ET - Done deal! Boyle is a Shark. It's official.

4:52pm ET - Now we know why the trade call went so long, the Sharks have traded Craig Rivet to Buffalo. More to come...

4:48pm ET - A lot of Pens fans have been asking me about Pesonen. Unfortunately, I don't know much about this kid. He's an offensive-minded player with a lot of upside, and that's about all I've got on him. I wish I knew more, but I didn't make it out to Europe this season to check anyone out, sorry guys.

4:35pm ET - Okay, not so fast... (sigh)... Just spoke to a source extremely close to the entire Boyle process. The trade call was delayed and just got underway. It's not "done" until the league approves it. We should get official word in about half an hour, give or take.

4:25pm ET - Boyle trade should be done any moment now.

4:22pm ET - Pesonen, who played in the Finnish League with Karpat last year and put up some very nice numbers, appears to have been signed... at least that's what he's telling local media in Finland.

4:16pm ET - I've received some emails regarding the Penguins trying to sign Janne Pesonen. I don't have official confirmation, but am seeking it.

3:59pm ET - Still no official word on the trade, as the call isn't complete yet. I am told the details, as it currently stands, are in fact Boyle and Brad Lukowich for Matt Carle, Ty Wishart, a 2009 first-round pick and a 2010 fourth-rounder. Once it's official, I'll be sure to let you all know.

3:45pm ET - A note on the B's. I've received emails from some pretty bright fans that have told me that because Dennis Wideman has elected to go to salary arbitration, the team has a 48-hour buyout window after a salary has been awarded. Keep in mind, though, that this is only the case if the Bruins and Wideman have an arbitration hearing. There's still time to get a deal done before then. Arbitration hearings are done between July 20 to August 4.

3:28pm ET - Minor whispers over Ducks and Mathieu Schneider. Keep in mind, teams don't have to be under the salary cap until opening night. Anaheim doesn't need to rush a trade.

3:20pm ET - Just spoke to Boyle's agent, George Bazos, and he hasn't been informed yet that the deal is finalized. Official terms of the deal aren't known yet, either.

3:19pm ET - Okay, folks. The Dan Boyle trade is about to the finalized. According to a source, the trade call with the NHL is going on right now (or just about to). This is standard procedure. Once the call is over, the trade will be official.

3:12pm ET - On the Leafs (still going through emails). I unfortunately don't have an update on Pavel Kubina's status with the team. I know teams have inquired about him, but I don't know how in depth those discussions have gone. I do know the club is looking at a few more options, both up front (winger) and on the blueline.

3:07pm ET - Back to replying to emails for a second, as I've received about 7 in the last 2 minutes on the Hurricanes. Carolina GM Jim Rutherford has stated that he's looking to move a defenseman. Reports out of Raleigh, primarily through the News & Observer, suggest that the team needs to move someone and their only options are Frantisek (he likes to be called Frank) Kaberle and Niclas Wallin. Well, Wallin has a no-trade clause and already rejected a deal last summer. Assuming he doesn't want to leave, Kaberle's the only real option they have. And I've heard teams are interested, but that doesn't necessarily mean a deal will happen today.

3:05pm ET - Anyone else just want the Boyle deal to be over with? ... Regarding Sergei Fedorov, he's come to a point in his career where he can play multiple positions. Just because he's a natural center doesn't mean they'll move him around, nor does it mean he's unwilling to play in other areas/zones.

3:01pm ET - On the Coyotes, I've received a few emails about them lately. And I certainly stand corrected in one area. I completely forgot they signed David Hale yesterday, which covers them on the blueline (sorry PHX fans, and to Hale!). Yotes GM Don Maloney did tell reporters that he's "satisfied" with what they've done, and he should be. That doesn't mean if someone/thing doesn't fall in his lap, he won't be all over it. If the Coyotes can get another forward, they'll do it, but it's gotta make sense.

2:50pm ET - Still very quiet on the Bertuzzi front. Their camp has shut down convo, and you can't blame them, as they're trying to get a deal done... Also, just wanted to thank everyone for their comments and emails, it's definitely appreciated! ... Nothing new on Oilers front, still waiting word.

2:25pm ET - Just received confirmation from Straka's agent, Ritch Winter, that his client won't be back in the NHL this season. Our news story is updated on the main page.

2:16pm ET - According to Brendan Morrison's agent, Kurt Overhardt, no decision has been made yet on where he'll end up playing. Minnesota and Atlanta have expressed an interest, while Vancouver doesn't appear to be an option any more.

2:06pm ET - It looks like something might be brewing with the Oilers on the trade front, waiting on that... Straka story should be up soon, I'm told... Nice pick up for Canucks in Bernier. Sabres gave up on him too early.

1:40pm ET - Trade for Boyle is complete, it's waiting league approval. Details to come once they're in.

1:39pm ET - Had a chance to touch base with Straka's agent, who said that, "Omsk is not in the cards at this stage." We're going to put up a news story on Straka shortly, as there's some interesting info about him to share.

1:20pm ET - Okay, to clear up this Jagr situation. Omsk denied that he's received a deal worth $35 million. Local reports are now saying it's closer to $10M/year. Also, reports suggest Martin Straka could be joining Omsk too. Their GM half denied that, and I'm just waiting on a response from his agent, Ritch Winter.

12:35pm ET - Nothing new, yet, on Demitra or Bertuzzi... Blackhawks might be an option for Jason Smith.

12:26pm ET - Michael Peca and the Blue Jackets are still finalizing details on a new contract. He wants to stay, so we'll see how that turns out... Now that we know Matt Cooke won't be re-signed by Washington, there's a possibility he returns to Vancouver... Mostly quiet on the Ray Emery front. Teams aren't willing to pay a premium for him, and Russia might be an option if he wants big bucks.

12:21pm ET - Some questions about Atlanta, Wild and the Isles here. I think the Thrashers are still trying to fill some holes, unfortunately I don't have any knowledge as to who they're targeting. About Minnesota, I'm of the understanding that they're more or less finished, unless someone falls into their lap... Same goes for the Islanders.

12:08pm ET - On Sergei Fedorov... I don't see him, at this point, going anywhere else but Washington. They have an agreement in place, from what I'm told, that won't be executed until the Caps finialize some internal issues... Bruins can't buyout Glen Murray, B's fans. The buyout period ended June 30. They'll either have to try to trade him or place him on waivers if they want to get rid of him.

12:05pm ET - Back to emails, I'm going to try to run down some topics quickly... On Phoenix. The Coyotes are looking for another forward and defenseman. Todd Fedoruk isn't a top-six forward people. If they can get a second-line winger and not break the bank doing so, they will. On the blueline, yes they're looking for another d-man and that could also come via trade.... On Jason Smith, lots of questions surrounding him. I know that Buffalo and Tampa are in the mix, while NJ, Pittsburgh and Columbus inquired at one point.

12:03pm ET - Sidenote in between emails... the Lightning might not be done with the Boyle trade. I'm hearing a lot of talk surrounding Filip Kuba, as well as free agent Jason Smith. This may not happen today or tomorrow, but I don't think they're done re-touching their blueline.

12:00pm ET - Thanks for all the emails. Keep in mind I can't go through them all now, there's way too many (thanks for all the support!), but I'll do my best. Getting a lot of hate from Canucks fans right now. I feel your pain. They tried, they really did, but things just simply didn't work out in their favor this season. Demitra is still an option, as is Nagy, but I know everyone wanted Hossa, Sundin, etc. The Canucks will continue their attempts to reshape their roster. Trades are an option. The Canucks tried to get Boyle, but came in second place. Pavel Kubina's available and is still a very solid d-man. I cover the Leafs here and when given the proper ice time, he did well. It might be a long year for Vancouver, but know your team is trying to fix itself.

11:54am ET - Still no clear word on the likes of Demitra, Bertuzzi, Jason Smith or even Ladislav Nagy. I've received a boat load of emails, so I'll try to go over some of those now.

11:45am ET - Happy 4th of July to all my American buddies! Some apologies needed, as last night's meetings took much longer than expected and then I crashed out. But we're back in business waiting on official word on the Dan Boyle trade to the Sharks.

JULY 3, 2008
The rumblings continue, although things have most certainly quieted down on the free agent front. The trade winds are blowing, mind you, so I figured I'd keep the journal alive for another day:

5:18pm ET - Break time for now, but will report back when I can.

5:14pm ET - Jagr's future is now in limbo here, as the Rangers are out of the picture. Does that leave Edmonton and Pittsburgh? Will another team jump in? Is he set on going to Russia? Left a message with his agent.

5:10pm ET - Call ended a few minutes ago. Rangers still have some tinkering to do... Meanwhile, Naslund had this to say about playing in Vancouver: "I’ve been a captain there for the last 8 years. I have every found memories of playing in that city, with the fan base that’s there. It’s definitely a big step, but it’s a step I’m excited to take."

5:05pm ET - On the defensive front, the Rangers have an offer for Paul Mara and are waiting to hear back from him. Sather said "there's lots of opportunities."

5:02pm ET - Interesting note here, as the Rangers haven't closed the doors on re-signing Brendan Shanahan. Says Sather, "I left Brendan a message. I wouldn’t say the door is closed there. There’s still some ongoing things to be done here. He’s told me he wants to play in New York. He’s not out of the equation."

4:56pm ET - More updates on the Rangers. Sather said he has money to sign another defenseman, and he indicated that he won't be signing Martin Straka and that Straka will be signing and playing in Europe next season.

4:54pm ET - Sather about Jagr: "I talked to Jaromir today and waited for a call for the last couple of days and nothing happened, so we decided they were going to move on."

4:53pm ET - Jagr will not be signing with the Rangers, Rangers GM Glen Sather just confirmed.

4:45pm ET - Naslund also confirmed he hasn't spoke to Mats Sundin. Thought I needed to share that, too.

4:43pm ET - Naslund confirmed that he's signed a 2-year deal. He said he's received offers from other teams for longer terms, but wanted to go to the Rangers. He said, "I wanted to be signing with a Cup contender. I think we’ve all seen how tight it is, the race, and it’s very difficult to pick a winner before the playoffs start. I believe that just looking at the history, the Rangers are going in the right direction and I want to be a part of that."

4:37pm ET - Says Naslund, "Initially, there was quite a few teams contacting us. Me and my agent, I gave him instructions early on that there was only limited number of teams I was interested in playing for and the Rangers were on top of that list."

4:35pm ET - Rangers sign Dmitri Kalinin and Markus Naslund

4:34pm ET - In the middle of the fantastic classical music playing while we wait...

4:27pm ET - The Rangers have a conference call at 4:30pm, which I'm jumping in now. Updates in a moment.

4:18pm ET - So, I've been thinking. If I'm Jay Feaster, Len Barrie, Oren Koules or Brian Lawton (whoever is running that team over in TB), I've gotta ask myself if there's any other way. Why trade Boyle? Okay, he's making $6.667M a year. You want to free up some cash? How about trying to move Filip Kuba and Michel Ouellet? It's not every day a team can get its hands on a top-notch puck-moving defenseman like Boyle. Who will feed your forwards the puck? Olaf Kolzig? Now, I'm not in the Forum in TB. I don't know what goes on behind closed doors (not always), but if I'm trying to shed salary, I find another way. And come to think of it, didn't Koules say he's willing to spend mega bucks this summer? The cap is $56.7 million. The Lightning have around $51.5 million committed already. According to my math, they're under the cap. Just a thought.

4:10pm ET - Teams are waiting to hear back from Markus Naslund, Todd Bertuzzi and Pavol Demitra, the next Big 3 available.

4:05pm ET - Yeah, I know it's been a while, but duty calls. Anyway, I was a little surprised to see the Habs sign Laraque. The Habs didn't really have that type of player in their lineup, so it's a solid addition. Laraque's a great guy and should do well back in La Belle Provence.

2:10pm ET - Hey everyone. I've got to jump into our regular Thursday meetings here, but I'll return as quickly as possible. Lots going on at TFP HQ for next season... little teaser for now, more details to be announced throughout the summer.

1:56pm ET - Quick update on Jagr. While he could take a week or two (or more) to make a decision, there's not much stopping him from making a decision today or this week. I've haven't had a chance to speak to his agent, Pat Brisson, today, but I've heard a decision could come at any time (today, next week, next month). Jagr's been very quiet the last 12 hours... On Pavol Demitra, he could be finding a new home quicker than Jagr, as he continues to mull over offers. Same goes for Todd Bertuzzi.

1:45pm ET - Miro Satan has found a home in Pittsburgh! Meanwhile Georges Laraque is mulling over offers from Edmonton and Nashville, who are still in the mix.

1:36pm ET - It's now official. I've just got word from a source within the Lightning that the team has now asked Boyle to waive his no-trade clause. No word on whether Boyle's accepted to or not. More to come.

1:33pm ET - While I keep going through emails right now, here's a response to some questions about the Coyotes. First, regarding Fedoruk, he's a solid grinder who protects his team. The Coyotes wanted to get tougher this summer and the additions of Fedoruk and McGratton do just that. Secondly, there are some rumblings that the Coyotes are still looking to replace Radim Vrbata.

1:27pm ET - I've received a few emails about Jagr and the Pens. Pittsburgh is definitely an option, but it seems as though they not frontrunners to sign him, at least not yet. Edmonton and the Rangers are still in the mix, with another team recently showing great interest... Also received from Q's about Khabibulin. I can't see the Hawks going with both him and Huet to start the season, despite what Dale Tallon said. They need to shed some salary somewhere, and unless they're moving Robert Lang (doubt it), Khabby's next in line.

1:15pm ET - Just spoke to a contact in Tampa. As of this moment, Boyle has not been asked to waive his no-trade clause. Now, that's not to say that he won't be asked later today or in the future. But so far, the team hasn't officially asked him to waive it. That being said, the Bolts are definitely working the trade front and trying to free up salary space. Another trade target is Filip Kuba.

1:10pm ET - News from Chicago, as James Wisniewski has torn his ACL during off-ice workout and will miss a chunk of the season.

1:03pm ET - It's the Sundin Game! Everyone's invited to play, even Jaromir Jagr. TSN's reporting that Jagr may follow in Sundin's footsteps and wait a while before making a decision. Who's next, Naslund?

12:54pm ET - I've got a few emails from Leafs fans asking about Mikhail Grabovski. I like the kid. He's a quick and offensive minded player who can play center and the wing. I saw him a few times this past season. He's got a lot of upside and wasn't working out in Montreal primarily because they didn't have room to give him the ice time he needs. He has top-six potential; a good pick up by Toronto.

12:40pm ET - The Boyle Saga continues, as the Lightning have now officially asked him to waive his no-trade clause. I can't get any other bits of info, as everyone just went into hibernation mode.

12:28pm ET - Okay, song's over... back to hockey! And guess what, Boyle speaks! He told our buddy Erik Erlendsson of the Tampa Tribune what he wants to stay in Tampa. "I don't plan on waiving it," he said, refering to his no-trade clause. Maybe that'll quiet things down?

12:24pm ET - The summer is always a goofy time in the hockey world. Someone in the office just turns on the radio and Journey's "Don't Stop Believing" came on. Reminds me of those Red Wings fans when that city boy was born and raised in south DETROIT! (If you've been to a game at the Joe, you know what I'm talking about).

12:14pm ET - All eyes on Jaromir Jagr, as a decision could come this afternoon. The Oilers have stepped up after losing out on Hossa, while the Penguins watch in the distance.

12:00pm ET - Okay, Day 3 has arrived. What does this mean? Well, we could finally get an answer from Markus Naslund, who has offers from Minnesota, Vancouver and the Rangers... The Dan Boyle watch continues, even though his agent said Boyle doesn't want to waive his no-trade clause... Another trading candidate is Mathieu Schneider, whom the Ducks are shopping.

JULY 2, 2008
Well, it turns out a server error has deleted all of Tuesday's updates! How great is that? After a few curse words, I decided to keep things alive on Day 2:

9:53pm ET - Wait, I forgot about Naslund, who has yet to make a decision. Well, at least I'm not aware of one just yet.

9:49pm ET - With Huselius off the market, Jagr's really the only big boy left out there. Well, there's also Bertuzzi and some guy named Sundin (but Mats won't make a decision any time soon).

9:20pm ET - Just been told Huselius is going to Columbus.

9:17pm ET - The Thrashers were among the teams bidding for Rolston yesterday... Rangers are shopping for a defenseman... Leafs still trying to trade Kubina.

9:10pm ET - Rangers are hoping Jagr accepts their offer. They're still waiting on word from him. Pens are a long shot at this point, but still a possibility.

8:55pm ET - Buffalo is trying to solidify their blueline and are going after a couple d-men. Jason Smith is an option, as is Branislav Mezei.

8:32pm ET - The waiting game continues... Brendan Morrison's received from offers from teams like Columbus, Minnesota and Atlanta, from what I'm told.

8:08pm ET - I've been told the Wild are waiting on word from Markus Naslund and Kristian Huselius - they've offered them both contracts... Ladislav Nagy and Miro Satan are mulling over a few offers, but nothing imminent.

8:00pm ET - Well, that took a little longer than expected. Sorry for the long delay, but I couldn't push that back any more... since Weight signed, it's been fairly quiet.

4:58pm ET - Just ran in here to pass word that the Rangers have acquired Nik Zherdev from Columbus... and the Wild have made an offer to Markus Naslund... Back to the meeting.

4:30pm ET - For the time being, I must bid adieu. I've got a few meetings to attend to during the late afternoon hours here, but if anything pops up, you can be sure to see it on TFP. I'll return as soon as I can.

4:10pm ET - With Hainsey now in Atlanta (finally, they got the d-man they were looking for, albeit their Plan C), Orpik and Kalinin are the next in line.

3:32pm ET - I'm told the Hawks aren't in the running for Bertuzzi anymore... Huselius camp quiet... Where's Selanne?

3:03pm ET - Looks like another Penguin is leaving Pittsburgh; Jarkko Ruutu's about to join Ottawa.

3:00pm ET - Wild, Leafs, Habs, Oilers, Canucks, Islanders all in running for Huselius... Hawks are looking to make a trade to free up some cap space, and Khabibulin isn't the other guy they're looking at moving, according to a source. TO make things more cap-complicated, they're apparently also interested in Todd Bertuzzi.

2:44pm ET - Okay, back in action. Sorry for the long delay, as you can imagine it's a very busy day. Not as hectic as yesterday, but much more difficult in terms of getting information. I can't discuss everyone I've spoken to, but one guy in particular, agent Art Breeze, shed some light on free agency and one of his clients Jason Smith. I'll be finishing up a piece on Smith shortly (to sum up, lots of calls, nothing finalized yet).

1:35pm ET - Just finished up the chat with Yahoo! Love doing it (every Wednesday, by the way). Anyway, I have a bunch of interviews to make right now, so I'm going to take a quick break and return as soon as possible... Quick note, Huselius closing in on decision, A LOT of interest in Jason Smith.

12:56pm ET - From 1pm to 1:30pm, I'll be jumping in a chat over at Yahoo! Feel free to join in and ask questions.

12:45pm ET - Huselius, I'm told, will be making a decision later today... Hossa signing has Montreal stepping up for Sundin.

12:32pm ET - HOLY COW... Red Wings sign Hossa!!

12:30pm ET - It's been pretty quiet on the Miro Satan front, but he's received a number of calls asking about his services... Bryan Smolinski's getting a solid amount of attention... Those I'm speaking to are pretty tight-lipped right now on how many teams players have spoken to, who's talking to who, etc. and you can't blame them. Day 1 is in the books and Day 2 is when the real mind-games and negotiating begins.

12:27pm ET - Canadiens are still alive in the Sundin and Hossa races. I'm told the Habs basically told Sundin's agent, JP Barry, they can go with around $8M a year, and same goes for Hossa.

12:19pm ET - TB is looking for a stay-at-home defenseman... Rangers appear to be waiting on Hossa and Sundin before moving forward with Jagr... Blue Jackets talking to Brendan Morrison and one report suggest Todd Bertuzzi too.

12:17pm ET - While the Leafs keep their eyes on Ron Hainsey (stop with the d-men!!), the Leafs might be stepping up for Huselius, from the whispers I'm hearing... Still on Toronto, Pavel Kubina isn't expected to be on the team by August and could go in the coming days.

12:11pm ET - A few teams, including the Rangers and Penguins, have inquired about Markus Naslund... Could Shanahan return to Detroit?

12:02pm ET - Maple Leafs are still pretty active out there, trying to add a couple more players... Habs are itching to get an answer from Sundin and/or Hossa... Huselius should sign later today... Doug Weight's getting nice interest... Islanders, Canucks, Thrashers and Caps have apparently talked to Pavol Demitra... Ruslan Fedotenko's name has popped up lately, as well.

11:51am ET - I know, I know... sorry for the delay. Kings have discussed a new contract with Rob Blake, but they're also weighing their options on the UFA front.

11:20am ET - Just spoke with our Pittsburgh boy, Dan Kingerski, host of The Fourth Period Radio Show, who told me the city is buzzing over the possibility of Jaromir Jagr returning. Fans are excited! They may get their wish, as the Pens are still a serious option for Jagr.

11:10am ET - Let the games begin! Josef Melichar's coming back! He's now a Hurricane! Yippee!

11:05am ET - Decision on Marian Hossa could be coming shortly, same with Brooks Orpik as a few steps are stepping up for him right now.

10:56am ET - Todd Bertuzzi, some team's Plan C, is getting a lot of attention, but with the buy out he received, he isn't getting mega-bucks.

10:24am ET - Wild speaking to Huselius camp... Jason Smith and Dmitri Kalinin fielding offers... Sean Avery continues to mull over offers.

10:00am ET - We're back in business, at least for now, with TB re-signing Ryan Craig... other than that, it's Zzzzzzzz right now.

1:20am ET - And back to being relatively quiet... that might be it for tonight, but I'll still be working for the next little while.

12:56am ET - Defenseman Jason Smith could sign later today (Wednesday). I'm hearing Atlanta, Tampa, Buffalo and Pittsburgh have inquired about him.

12:51am ET - Kristian Huselius should make a decision tomorrow morning/early afternoon on where he'll play next season. The Wild are very, very, interested in him... Oilers met with Hossa's agent late Tuesday, a source said.

12:45am ET - To recap the Hossa situation: Pens, Habs and Oilers are atop the list and believed to be the front-runners. Pens have 5-year offer worth just over $7 million on the table; Oilers believed to be offering up to $9M a year; and Habs are around the $8M range.

12:44am ET - To recap some of the events from yesterday (thanks again, server): Bruins are out of Hossa sweepstakes... Hawks, Kings talked trade for Khabibulin... Oilers trying to deal Dwayne Roloson, and have mega-offer for Hossa... Habs still in thick of things for Sundin and Hossa... Hainsey getting a lot of attention now... Leafs trying to trade Kubina, with Columbus, Atlanta, San Jose believed to be very interested.

David Pagnotta is the Editor-in-Chief of The Fourth Period Magazine and covers the Toronto Maple Leafs and the NHL for TheFourthPeriod.com. He is also a contributing writer for NBCSports.com and MSNBC.