As is tradition in the Eklund family, we have jetted down to visit the in-laws for the week between Christmas and New Years. Currently I am in staying at the Hyatt in the Orlando airport where we flew in late last night (Best pizza I have EVER had btw was room service from this hotel last night). I am grabbing a rental car in about 30 minutes and taking the drive to my wife's parent's place in Longboat Key. Truly a beautiful place. I will be twittering some photos.
Anyway, feeling refreshed and renewed after connecting with my wonderful kids over the last two days...but even though I "sort of" took a breather...the inbox is full of rumours and leads to follow up on during the upcoming two hour drive down the coast. My wife is joking that she just chauffeurs me these days while I blog and chat.
Starting with Kovalchuk..It is quite certain that Waddell has yet to take any official calls on Kovalchuk, however there sure are teams that are working on proposals should word come down that the store is open.
Right now the teams leading the way in aggressively exploring options for Kovalchuk are Ottawa, Minnesota and Edmonton. Sources tell me to expect Montreal and the Rangers to get into it sooner than later, however another domino stands in their way currently. More on that shortly.
Speaking of the Sens, they are definitely aggressively working the phones. A source tells me, "The Sens are looking at landing a #1 goalie and a top line forward by the All-Star game. I have even heard that Murray has been given a deadline to improve the team or...the Sens have made calls about Garon, Khabibulin and Toskala.
Also speaking of the Sens, I am seeking a new Senators lead blogger. Send samples to eklund (at) hockeybuzz.com. I would like to hire a full-time guy by year's end...Strong knowledge of all things Sens are vital, but personality and passion are hugely important as well.
The Minnesota Wild are looking hard at Kovalchuk as well, but Gaborik is NOT involved in that deal I am told. The Wild are talking Gaborik with the Islanders, Canadiens, Kings, and Penguins.
The Oilers are one of three teams trying to make a move for Jason Spezza. They are "by far" the most aggressive when it comes to this. The other teams are Chicago, Dallas and LA. The Blackhawks look to be close to moving Havlat to possibly Atlanta or Columbus......which could clear the way for Spezza as well...
That domino for Montreal and the Rangers is Jay Bouwmeester. However, they will have to fight the Flyers, Bruins, Flames, Oilers, and others in that sweeps. The Flyers I am told have a deal that they could make right now, but the team is playing so well and it would be a deal that could take a key player from the core....From a source, "Jay Bo will require an All-Star back in return."
More to come...
Thanks to all who sent their wishes to Burt...You have to love Burt's funky dance in this video...
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