from Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun,

- I covered Mike Vernon in junior hockey and closely watched his first five NHL seasons. He’s the first goalie I ever knew up close. In junior, I might have thought I was watching a future Hall of Famer, but I never thought that while watching him in the NHL. He was a terrific competitor and a very good NHL goaltender. I think the Hall of Fame should be only for all-time greats.

- About so many Flames players apparently wanting out: I spent eight years living in Calgary. It was a fantastic experience. I’d move back there in a second if need be. Not sure why so many players don’t want to be there.

- Not sure what Jonathan Toews plans to do in the future, but if he still wants to play at around $2 million a season, there will be a lineup of teams interested in having him.

a few more notes....