Rumors, Rumors… and More Rumors!

Redden on the move?!

Some Leafs talk…

Red Wings want to add a defenseman…

Sabres looking for a trade….The Ottawa Sun is reporting the Senators are shopping Wade Redden, and have received interest from three different teams. It is believed that the Detroit Red Wings, Florida Panthers, and the LA Kings have inquired about Redden. John Muckler is using the Pronger deal as an example to the trade he wants to achieve; trade an experienced player for a young player that is helpful and affordable. In my opinion, the Senators would easily make the dumbest move of the summer if they trade Redden. I know Redden is a free-agent next year, and that the Senators won’t be able to keep Chara, Redden, and Hossa. I also know that Redden is 28, and his trade value is huge, and that his salary (close to $4 million) is a bargain to what he can get next year, should he test the free-agent market. However, the Senators have a strong and well-balanced team that, I believe, can easily represent the Eastern Conference in 05/06 edition of the Stanley Cup finals. They have a great goaltender, a strong defense that is both physical and creative, and the best offense in the league. There’s no guarantee that if you trade away Redden that you will keep both Chara and Hossa. They could easily be lured away by a team with more money next summer. Keep the team together for now, and see where you stand by the deadline. If you are out of it or you believe that other teams are much better than you, then you trade away Redden. If you are still in pretty much in it and you have a great shot at the cup, then keep the team together if not add more players.

Steve Thomas responded admirably to the speculation that he will soon join the Leafs yesterday. He said that although nobody has yet knocked his door yet, he would like to play one more year and would like to do it in Toronto. He said that he has plenty in the tank, and wants to lift the cup before he retires. When asked on what he would add to the Leafs, he said that he would contribute leadership wise and that he hasn’t lost his scoring touch yet.

Also, Scott Lachance’s agent denied that his client was on the verge of signing with the Leafs, ending days of speculation. As for John Ferguson Jr., he is waiting for the remaining crop of free-agents to come knocking on his door, begging him to sign them. He is also looking to trade one of Tomas Kabrle, Ken Klee, and Aki Berg for a physical defenseman.

According to the Detroit News, Ken Holland is looking to add a physical defenseman to the blue line. The article suggests that Todd Simpson, who played for new coach Mike Bab¢ock in Anaheim, is a possible target.

According to WGR Sportsradio 55, the Sabers would like to make a trade rather than rely solely on restricted and unrestricted free-agents. As for Jay McKee, who rejected his qualifying offer, it is likely that he will be signed to a two-year contract.