from Eric Stephens of the OC Register,

Stoner, 31, is making $3.25 million for this season and next. With the team already stacked on the blue line, the Ducks could be making this move to free up a possible roster spot and gain some added salary cap space if a team claims him by Friday.

The cap savings would be only $950,000 and not the full $3.25 million, as that has now changed with the most recent collective bargaining agreement. Previously, well-heeled teams could gain substantial cap relief by burying a contract in the minor leagues....

Cap space is coveted by the Ducks these days. The Ducks had about $7.5 million available under the ceiling, but getting defenseman Hampus Lindholm and forward Rickard Rakell under contract figures to eat up that space.

They've also got at least two forward openings to fill on the 23-man roster and need to have money available to add those who win the jobs. Mason Raymond, who's on a two-way contract, appears to be on the inside track for one as veteran Sean Bergenheim was released from his pro tryout.

more