Tucker, Smyth and Cullenmore in high demand
The Toronto Maple Leafs have tough decisions to make that could have hinder their playoff implications. With The Maple Leafs up against the cap, they must make a decision on Mats Sundin, Mike Peca and Darcy Tucker. The lone man out seems to be left winger Darcy Tucker. According to a report from The Toronto Star, a potential move could be trading Tucker to either Edmonton or Calgary. Sources told the newspaper that both teams are in “tire-kicking mode” with the Leafs. This isn’t the first time a Tucker-Edmonton connection has been tossed out there. In the past, he has also been reportedly linked to Dallas and San Jose.
Tucker, 31, is set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer and leads the team with 19 goals.
Still without a contract extension Ryan Smyth’s name keeps coming up in recent trade rumors. Smyth, 30, is on pace to score 50 goals for the Oilers despite missing 10 games with a thumb injury. He’s making $3.5 million this season and he seeking 5-6 million per. According to a report from The Edmonton Journal, GM Kevin Lowe said the team has tabled an offer with Smyth and his agent, Don Meehan. “I wish it would have happened earlier. This is what I didn’t want to happen,” Smyth told the newspaper. “We’re fighting for a playoff spot, and I think that’s the most important thing in here. I don’t want this to be an individual thing. We’re focused on getting to the playoffs.” Over the weekend the Rangers, Stars, Senators have been linked to having serious interest in Smyth if the Oilers will listen to offers.
Teams looking for a vetern defenseman for the stretch run are expected to give the Chicago Blackhawks a call regarding 34 yr old defenseman Jason Cullenmore. According to a report in The Daily Herald, the Thrashers, Canadiens and Lightning were on hand at the game.
Reports indicate that the teams might also be interested in center Bryan Smolinski.
