from Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet,

- Upon arriving in Tampa, Steven Stamkos said he was in the “middle stages” of negotiations with the Lightning. Whatever that means, the league reaction outside western Florida is, “We’ll believe Stamkos becomes a free agent when we see it.” As one GM said, “How can this not get done? He’d be the biggest free agent ever.” Another pointed out Steve Yzerman and Don Meehan have a strong relationship, so you could make a deal, then work together if both sides decided to extricate themselves in the future.

- Asked a few execs about an under-the-radar team that might still make an interesting move or two. No overwhelming favourite, although New Jersey was mentioned a few times. GM Ray Shero is taking the long view and his owners are patient (see Philadelphia 76ers), but he’s got a ton of flexibility. It’s not just cap room. After signing Jiri Tlusty, the Devils are at 43 contracts, although it could go to 45 if John Quenneville and Pavel Zacha make the roster. The max is 50.

- TVA’s Renaud Lavoie asked a good question at the NHL broadcasting meetings: What happens if a coach calls for a video review of a missed offside, and while looking, the referee notices the goalie was interfered with? Is the goal disallowed? Answer is no. You have to be specific about what you want to review.

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