Hockey Trade Rumors

Paul Hunter – Sports Reporter

Once the goaltender of the future for the Maple Leafs, it appears Justin Pogge no longer has a future in Toronto.

The Toronto Maple Leafs were in the news sort of this week with some minor moves, a hiring and yes more trade talk.

The team strengthened their minor league depth bringing back forwards Darryl Boyce, Alex Foster and Andre Deveaux. Depth and the Leafs have not gone hand in hand the last several years, but the Marlies roster may be a fairly strong one this upcoming season. Captain Ben Ondrus was retained and they added Tim Brent for more forward help and some leadership. Phil Oreskovich will return on D and starting goalie Justin Pogge was brought back. Also, a slew of first year players including Christian Hanson, Dale Mitchell, Victor Stalberg, Chris Didomenico, Robert Slaney, Mikail Stefanovich, Tyler Bozak, Carl Gunnarsson will battle for playing time. Its possible too that players on the parent roster will be sent down to the Marlies as well.

The Bruins resigned defenseman Matt Hunwick to a 2 year deal, paying him $1.35 million the first season, and $1.55 million the next season, for a cap hit of $1.45 million in both seasons. The Bruin’s roster and cap hit would look like:

Here is a quick look at how the 6 Canadian teams are shaping up for the upcoming season and a grade for Offense, Defense, and Goaltending. I’m not saying these are the lines or d pairings just a rough estimate of who is on the club. 4th line and 5th&6th d spots are kind of a speculation with some players that may be on the team left off on here subject to how training camp plays out. I’m not having any prospects jumping into the rotation as there is sure to be.

Tom Reed

As the Blue Jackets continue to search for an offensive defenseman, keep one thing in mind: the franchise is unlikely to add significant salary without also subtracting it.

Mark Emmons

There are two bits of news.

Marleau, who has been a lightning rod for criticism, said he and Wilson have talked about if he should remain the team’s captain.