from Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet,

- During the season, there were rumours of Ryan O’Reilly being available. I asked around, and was told unlikely, because centres are hard to find. They also saw him as protection for Jack Eichel, and eventually, Casey Mittelstadt.

Now, I wonder if the rumours kick up again. I don’t think he intended to make as much news as he did with his “losing his love for the game” comments, but the Sabres know their mix isn’t working and needs change. O’Reilly has value.

- On the Islanders: I don’t know whether it was a lack of communication, or someone said something they shouldn’t, but it’s clear ownership was not prepared to announce a return for GM Garth Snow and head coach Doug Weight. As owner Jon Ledecky said Monday and re-iterated with a statement Tuesday, “Everyone is under review.” It could be something as simple as Tavares’ decision determining everyone’s fate. But, the organization was not prepared to commit to anyone or anything at this time. Ledecky getting up and leaving the podium was telling. He was not pleased, and, my guess is he didn’t want to say anything that made the situation worse.

- Red Wings GM Ken Holland announced Tuesday that Jeff Blashill will be back next season. I really liked something the coach said to Daren Millard before a late-season game against Ottawa. Daren asked how hard it must be to get up for those games.

“Every time you play a National Hockey League game, it’s special,” Blashill replied. “Every one of our guys, when their careers are over, will want to come back and play one more game, even in the situation that we are in being out of the playoffs. This isn’t perfect but it’s a National Hockey League game.”

more