from Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun,

- There is plenty of concern about a potential offer sheets for RFAs with the interview period underway and signings set to take place on July 1. The Bruins are concerned because they're up against the salary cap and have to figure where standout D Dougie Hamilton fits in on the money scale. Many believe a club with salary cap room -- such as Edmonton where Chiarelli, the former Boston GM, is now working -- might make a pitch. Bruins GM Don Sweeney told Boston reporters Thursday "in a perfect world" the club would have a deal in place by July 1. Negotiations will continue but Hamilton's camp can certainly entertain talks for an offer sheet now ... Keep an eye on Portland, Ore., as a possibility to make a pitch for an NHL expansion franchise. Trailblazers owner Paul Allen has long been interested in bringing an NHL team to Portland and with the league now accepting bids it would make sense for his group to at least do its due diligence.

- The talking period has changed the dynamic of free agency with teams allowed to reach out beginning Thursday. Agents reported they were receiving several phone calls with plenty of meetings set up to have exploratory discussions. There was lots of interest in Chicago C Antoine Vermette.

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