Quick updates today throughout the day as news and rumors are flying fast and furious.
Lecavalier Says Goodbye.
First off, we take a quick break from rumors as it really needs to be noted that Vinny Lecavalier has announced his retirement. I never met a classier individual than Lecavalier, and I knew him best from what must have been the hardest time in his career...his brief time in Philly... He showed that he could still play and contribute last year when he was moved to LA and I am sure this day is extra tough for the competitor and first ballot Hall-of-Famer that Lecavalier has become.. The NHL won't be the same without his class and elegance.
On Stamkos and the Sabres....
There is little doubt in my mind that Pegula and the Sabres are intensely serious about the Stamkos sweeps. The Sabres will be able to offer more money than anyone and have a good young group of players in place. I do believe that Vesey will sign in Buffalo as well. There are those who are dismissing the Sabres in the Stamkos sweepstakes...I was one of them until the past week or so...but I can tell you with great certainty that they are serious about Stamkos and will be a player in the sweepstakes...
On Stamkos and Toronto...
There is little doubt that the trade for and signing of Andersen by Toronto is a big piece toward getting Stamkos to consider coming home. Over the years I have talked to many potential UFAs and a common thread is that after the money they definitely want a coach and solid goalie in place. The Leafs could have probably waited and signed Andersen, but they knew they are in sales pitch mode. This does NOT mean they have any less money to sign Stamkos. Goalie budgets are viewed differently. Everyone needs a goalie.
Yandle Signing in Florida better than 50/50.
I am hearing there is still a bit of a sales pitch there as well...not too different from Goligoski in Arizona...
More to come following the podcast. On today's podcast I will get into the Boston situation, more in depth on Vesey, and how he ended up in Buffalo. We will also discuss Toronto and may discuss Stamkos....a little.
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