Dominoes Set To Tumble?

1) As we alluded to yesterday, the Suter/Parise delayed signing slowed/gummed up the works for any other moves teams were contemplating as many thought (incorrectly- and more on how ppissed off teams are later) they had a shot at landing one or both of the big names available. The/log-jam we wrote about yesterday has already been breached as we saw a quick move by the Lightning in grabbing the 2nd most wanted UFA defensemen in Matt Carle.  We are being told to expect a flurry of moves over the next 24-48 hours and that several signings for sure and likely the trades we were discussing last month can finally get done.

2) The biggest move will be the Nash trade. The Flyers, Rangers, and Penguins, all Atlantic division foes, are now deep into discussions with the Jackets on what it will take to get the big forward to their teams.  Howson may not get his price, but with a mini bidding war now taking place he should get a decent return.  AS long, as one NHL senior official told us, "he doesn't get too greedy".  He should expect a 1st round pick, a dcent prospect/young player and probably a vet as a package from those suitors.  Of the 3, we're told that Nash would prefer to go to Pittsburgh and a chance to play with Crosby and Malkin.

3) Of course the Bobby Ryan availability is now widely known. All of the above teams and Detroit have expressed interest. However we are hearing from a good source that the DC Capitals have given a call for the scoring wing. To replace the (soon to be lost) Alex Semin.  GM George McPhee might be willing to trade RFA defensemen Mike Green and unite him with his former AHL/NHL coach in Bruce Boudreau.   Additionally the Luongo issue is now front and center in Vancouver. Although officially the team does not have to trade him, nor has he officially requested one, the team is now carrying 10 million in cap for goalies. WAY more than most teams.  "A move East" is all but assured, but this move of all those that we are hearing about could take the longest. Like in Columbus, Mike Gillis can NOT expect to get back too much for Roberto who carrys a hefty contract.
AS always, keep it here for all the latest!