from Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun,

- Unable to get a contract after being bought out by the Senators in July, 2008, Chicago G Ray Emery could cash in on his success as a UFA, especially if he helps the Blackhawks have a long playoff run. Making $1.15 million, Emery, 30, has been brilliant and the Hawks haven't held any discussions with his camp on an extension. If they let Emery get to the market, he may not get a long-term deal, but he could get more than one year. Not bad for a guy who was forced to spend a year in hiatus in Russia, then had to make his way back to the NHL by playing in the minors.

- If the Flyers decide to fire coach Peter Laviolette, then minor-league coach Terry Murray will be a top candidate as a replacement. Feeling is Laviolette has lost the team completely and Flyers have no structure.

- There is expected to be a house-cleaning in Colorado when the season mercifully ends -- including president Pierre Lacroix, GM Greg Sherman and coach Joe Sacco all could be fired with Joe Sakic taking over. If that happens, former great Patrick Roy could return.

more including some buyout candidates...