Blake Wheeler has refused Phoenix's contract offer. The offer exceeeds any guaranteed contract he can receive under the CBA with another team. Regardless, he decided to become a free agent. The Coyotes will receive the 35th overall pick as compensation and they now have five picks in the first two rounds. Under terms of the NHL's collective bargaining agreement, any player who does not remain a college player through the graduation of his applicable class (in this case 2009), must submit a letter stating his intention to turn professional. Upon submission of that letter, the drafting club shall have 30 days to sign the player. If the player and team cannot reach an agreement within that 30 day period, the player becomes a free agent. Wheeler submitted his letter of intention to turn professional on May 8. Wheeler is ranked 28 on my Fantasy Prospects List and freefalls with this stupid decision.

Tragedy has struck the Vancouver organization. Defenseman Luc Bourdon has died as a result of a motorcycle accident. He lost control of the bike and hit a 53' transport truck. Bourdon was a top prospect with a bright future and he was on the cusp of being a full-time NHLer. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.

TSN is reporting that Doug Armstrong will be hired by the Blues to be the assistant GM and he will take over as GM when Larry Pleau retires. That's called foresight. Note to Maple Leaf's brass – (Foresight: Providence by virtue of planning prudently for the future. Prevision. Seeing ahead; knowing in advance; foreseeing.) Build a strong management group and make sure every position can be aptly taken over when a person leaves. The Red Wings have this set up brilliantly. The Leafs would be wise to set things up in a similar manner. All this footdragging will cost them. Why did they wait to meet with Armstrong? He expressed interest two weeks ago.

Finally – the Panthers have come to terms with Michael Frolik on an entry-level deal. They had until Sunday or he would have gone back in the draft.

The Washington Post is reporting that Sergei Fedorov wants to return to the Caps next season and is not thinking of retirement at all.

Darryl Sydor played his first game of the postseason last night after being a healthy scratch all spring. Kris Letang was scratched to make room.

Dallas signed Trevor Daley to a three-year extension worth $6.9 million. He's a strong candidate to tally 30 points and 100 PIMs next season, making him a great roto pickup in the fall.

Martin Kariya has signed to play in the Swiss League next season.

Missed the 25% off deal from last week for DobberHockey swag? I'm working on a Father's Day promo. Should have something to announce for tomorrow.