Duffer’s Dabbles: NHL Rumors Have Bruins Pursuing Yandle; Puzzling Trade Between Flyers and Blue Jackets; Rangers Roll Dice On Raty

The Boston Bruins require help on their defence. The Florida Panthers bought out the contract of veteran defenseman Keth Yandle. Do the math and a Yandle to the Bruins move makes perfect sense.

It was known that veteran forward Jakub Voracek wanted out of Philadelphia. However, the trade of Voracek to the Columbus Blue Jackets for forward Cam Atkinson was a bit of a head scratcher from the Columbus point of view. Atkinson was a steady producer and a model citizen as a representative of the franchise.

Colorado: It was obvious that Calder Trophy winner and Norris Trophy finalist Cale Makar was going to cash in as a restricted free agent. However, now that Makar put his name on a new contract with the Colorado Avalanche, he’s requesting a bonus – that the Avs also sign unrestricted free agents Gabriel Landeskog and Philipp Grubauer.

Florida: The Panthers were the latest benefactors of the house cleaning that’s underway in Buffalo. Florida acquired forward Sam Reinhart, once the No. 2 overall pick in the NHL entry draft, from the Sabres.

Rolling Dice On Raty

NYI: At one point during this draft cycle, Finnish forward Aatu Raty was viewed as being in the discussion to go first overall. The Islanders got Raty with the 52nd overall pick.

Washington: Capitals GM Brian MacLellan changed job titles during the NHL entry draft. He became the Secretary of Defense. The Caps loaded up on rearguards with their selections.

Pittsburgh: The Pittsburgh Penguins did little at the NHL Draft, but sources tell PHN what the Penguins are hunting for in free agency and on the NHL trade front.

Vegas: The Golden Knights traded down in the second round and snagged a former OHL prospect playing in Russia.

San Jose: The sleeper pick of the first few rounds: goalie Benjamin Gaudreau. He played just one year of junior hockey but COVID opened the door to play for Team Canada—and he dominated. The San Jose Sharks got a Round 3 steal.