Penguins/NHL
Alexei Kovalev’s numbers (8goals – 19 assists – 27 pts) are down a bit this season but he leads the Canadiens in scoring and indications are Kovalev believes he still has three more good years left in him. Kovalev 35, a unrestricted free agent at season’s end has an interest in resigning with the Canadiens but in all likely hood Kovalev will hit the open market. Sources tell me Kovalev would welcome a return to Pittsburgh with the chance to play with Evgeni Malkin. It remains to be seen how interested the Penguins front office will be in pursuing Kovalev this summer.
Petr Sykora may have to settle for a two year deal if he wants to resign with Pittsburgh. There is talk that Sykora seeks a three year deal but does have a strong interest in staying with the Penguins.
The Penguins have been involved in talks with a Western Conference team that could involve an opportunity for a salary dump.
According to my sources that team is the Columbus Blue Jackets. The Blue Jackets have been scouting Philippe Boucher. Blue Jackets prospect Teddy Ruth is a name I’ve heard the Penguins have been asking about. It is not clear what the Penguins plans are for Boucher. Therrien is very high on him but their blueline is getting crowded and there is zero interest in Mark Eaton on the trade market.
Mike Zigomanis saw a specialist on Monday. The Penguins are being very mum on how severe Zigomanis shoulder injury is but according to a source close to Zigomanis, surgery was recommended. Zigomanis has missed twelve consecutive games.
Hall Gill will return to the lineup on Tuesday.
Pittsburgh has some interest in Sabres forward Ales Kotalik who could become available at the trade deadline. There have done some scouting on him.
More to Come
