Earlier this month, there were reports that a trade that would see Hurricanes defenseman Justin Faulk get traded to the Ducks was gaining some traction. However, in an appearance on Sportsnet 960 (audio link), Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman suggests that the deal is unlikely to happen now. While Anaheim is open to doing the move without a pre-arranged extension in place, Faulk is presently unwilling to waive his partial no-trade clause unless he gets it. Considering the status of their back end and this near-swap, the 27-year-old likely realizes that the writing is on the wall with regards to his future in Carolina. Accordingly, Friedman suggests that the two sides may be working together to find a landing spot that Faulk is amenable to going to. It would certainly be in the best interest of the Hurricanes to do so as if they can find a spot he’s happy with and willing to sign an extension, that could certainly boost the return coming their way.
Other notes from around the league:
- While Stars defenseman Stephen Johns was skating earlier this offseason at development camp, he will not be taking part in training camp, notes Matthew DeFranks of the Dallas Morning News. GM Jim Nill indicated that there would be no further update on his status. Johns missed all of last season with a concussion and this would certainly appear to suggest that those symptoms are still present. Dallas signed Andrej Sekera after he was bought out by Edmonton in June which gives them a little bit more depth heading into the upcoming season.
- Brian Boyle is one of the more notable unrestricted free agents still available. Brian Hedger of the Columbus Dispatch notes (Twitter link) that the veteran would like to play for the Blue Jackets and be reunited with head coach John Tortorella. However, at this time, Columbus wants to evaluate their younger players instead of turning to Boyle. Hedger does add that there are a couple of teams that would like to sign Boyle but need to clear cap room to do so first.
I’ll repeat this: Boyle’r deserves to have a bone thrown his way. He’s earned it.
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