No.3 ranked draft eligible prospect Matt Duchene paid Long Island a visit yesterday. I think the Isles will go with Tavares, but they could trade down and take Hedman or Duchene. They did a lot of trading down last year.

Here's an interesting article on Janne Pesonen . He apparently would like to re-sign with the Penguins, even though his odds of becoming a full-time NHLer are at the lowest there. The Pens also want to keep him.

Manny Fernandez is contemplating retirement, based on the tough time that he had in the second half. The Globe is reporting that he has opportunities at home (in Montreal) if he decides to call it quits.

Erik Johnson has yet to receive medical clearance to play. That being said, he is getting closer and gaining strength in the knee. Regardless, I think EJ is prone to injury and you would be wise to not count on more than 70 games from him next campaign.

Word is that if Jerry Reinsdorf gets the Coyotes, then Wayne Gretzky is out as the coach.

May 27 is the next big date regarding the balls vs. bets battle. The bankruptcy judge wants them to mediate their differences – yeah, like the "who owns Phoenix" black or white issue will be settled in this way. Good luck with that.

Tuomo Ruutu is looking probable for Game 2. No word on Cole. Brandon Sutter will be next in line to play, followed by Dwight Helminen. Sorry Boychuk owners…

Beautiful overtime goal started from a Brian Campbell gaffe…