Kukla's Korner Hockey

Kukla's Korner Hockey

Friday Hockey Thoughts

12/12/2014 at 5:17pm EST

from Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet,

- Boston general manager Peter Chiarelli and assistant GM Don Sweeney were on a lengthy power-forward viewing tour. (If he could skate, the Bruins might have pursued the Lakers’ Carlos Boozer.) Chiarelli did not want to discuss it, but word last weekend was the Bruins were not close on anything. With that being said, there was a feeling at the Board of Governors meeting that things have intensified on Sabres forward Chris Stewart.

Right now Boston and Buffalo are like two high schoolers at the prom deciding whether or not to dance. Eventually, you’ve got to make your move, or go on to the next victim.

- With Edmonton’s reported interest in Artem Anisimov, the Oilers did shoot much higher. They asked about Ryan Johansen, and from what I understand, were prepared to make a legit offer. My guess: if the Blue Jackets showed interest, Edmonton might have tried to get both centres. I don’t think it got very far, though. According to one GM, “everyone” has inquired about Johansen since his contract dispute with Columbus. “We’re being told he is not available.”

- Carolina is three games into a lengthy stretch that sees them play 15 straight against Eastern Conference opponents. It wouldn’t surprise me if this stretch determines Ron Francis’ roster decisions.

- Kyle Okposo on the change in the Islanders’ mentality: “We’ve gone from hoping to win to expecting to win. And, not just that, but expecting to put teams on their heels right away.”

more including the Babcock talk...

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Paul Kukla founded Kukla’s Korner in 2005 and the site has since become the must-read site on the ‘net for all the latest happenings around the NHL.

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