The Montreal Canadiens and Philip Danault will likely be parting ways this summer per the latest TSN Insider Trading. According to Pierre LeBrun, Montreal will not be making Danault a new offer but “will leave the door open” for him to return.
NHL Rumors: Philip Danault likely hitting the free agent market
The Habs have a very good center depth in Nick Suzuki and Jesperi Kotkaniemi. That does make Danault, who was excellent as a shutdown center in the playoffs expendable.
Back in January it was learned that Danault turned down an offer from Montreal. According to La Presse, he rejected a 6 year deal with an AAV of $5 million in September.
According to our information, Danault is happy in Montreal and is keen to continue his career with the Canadiens. The gap would not be that large between the two parties, although there seem to be some nuances to be clarified on the duration of the contract. Some speak of a five-year deal, others of six seasons.
La Presse
“I really have the intention of honouring my contract,” Danault said coming into camp. “after that, we’ll see what the future holds.”
That future is now a likely trip to the free agent market.
Gabriel Landeskog disappointed with Avalanche
The Avs and Gabriel Landeskog are far apart on a deal. What was unthinkable just a few weeks ago is now becoming a serious probability. He could become a free agent.
“I can’t help but be honest with you that I’m a little bit disappointed that it’s gotten this far and it’s had to come to this point,” Landeskog said. “We’ll see what happens. I’m still hopeful that we can agree on something and come to terms.”
NHL
According to Andy Strickland, the Avs had several offers on the table but none moved the needle for the team’s captain. The 28 year-old will be a sought after commodity if he hits the market on July 28th.
Ben Bishop waives no-move clause
The Dallas Stars asked goalie Ben Bishop to waive his no-move clause for the Seattle expansion draft and he obliged. This now allows the team to protect Anton Khudobin whom many believed would be taken by the Kraken.
“I thought that was a good move for him and the team,” Bishop’s agent Allain Roy said. “In the big picture, the goal is to win the Stanley Cup, so I think he felt that was the right move for the team to be the best team possible next year. Makes sense.”
Bishop is 34 year-old and has been battling injuries. He has two more years on his deal with a $4.9 million AAV and it is unlikely that Seattle will select him.
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