The clock is ticking, and free agency is nearly here. We’re within an hour of the noon start time, and the floodgates are opening up and more rumors are flying in as teams make last-ditch efforts to keep their top players off the market before it’s too late.
NHL free agency rumors: Grabovski to hit market, Vanek cuts down his list
Thomas Vanek and Mikhail Grabovski will both likely be on the move when free agency opens at noon on Tuesday.
But one team that wasn't able to strike a deal with one of its own was the Washington Capitals. Mikhail Grabovski and the Caps couldn't come to terms on a new deal, and the 30-year-old center will hit the market.
Grabovski's agent confirms the center will test the free agent market. Estimated "around a dozen teams" have expressed interest.
— Alex Prewitt (@alex_prewitt) July 1, 2014 Kane, Toews talks still going
In Chicago, the Blackhawks are still reportedly working hard on locking up franchise players Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews, who are seeking big-money extensions.
Hawks and Pat Brisson still negotiating on Toews/Kane extensions...
— Pierre LeBrun (@Real_ESPNLeBrun) July 1, 2014 Vanek narrows his list
One of the bigger names who will be available is Thomas Vanek. After bouncing around from team to team last season, Vanek will be looking for a new home after Montreal announced its intentions to let him walk. He wasn't short of suitors and on Tuesday, he reportedly cut down his list of potential teams.
Told Vanek has list down to 5-6 teams
— Pierre LeBrun (@Real_ESPNLeBrun) July 1, 2014 Gionta going to market
Another player who looks like he'll soon be leaving the Canadiens is team captain Brian Gionta. Coming off the final year of a deal that paid him $5 million, Gionta would have likely needed to take a pay cut to remain in Montreal, but now it sounds like the 35-year-old will hit free agency.
Brian Gionta will be hitting the open market at noon.
— Brian Bartlett (@BBarts) July 1, 2014 Lecavalier trade coming?
In Philadelphia, the Flyers brass has been trying to move Vincent Lecavalier after not executing a trade during the draft. Lecavalier is set to make $2 million in bonuses, and if Philadelphia is willing to pay most or all of that sum, the Flyers could reportedly find a trade partner.
If @NHLFlyers r willing to give up a draft pick & pay 50% of Vinny Lecavalier's contract once 2mio sb is paid today it is possible he moves.
— Brian Lawton (@brianlawton9) July 1, 2014 See More:
