NHL Rumors: Werenski, Vladar, Tarasenko, and Kotkaniemi

Doesn’t sound like the Blue Jackets are in a rush to move Zach Werenski

Chris Johnston: There are some teams that are frustrated that they can’t get the Columbus Blue Jackets to engage in Zach Werenski trade talks. It doesn’t seem like the Blue Jackets are in any rush.

Dan Vladar’s extension with the Philadelphia Flyers is almost complete

Pierre LeBrun: It can’t officially be announced until July 1st, and there are still some final touches needed, but the Philadelphia Flyers and Dan Vladar are closing in on a five-year contract extension with a $5.5 million AAV.

• Charlie O’Connor: “About what has been rumored for quite a while now. The AAV is fine, especially with the cap ceiling increase. If Vladar stays the guy from last year, it’ll quickly become a steal. Five years is a lot of term, though, for a guy who will be 30 when the deal kicks in.”

Does Vladimir Tarasenko have permission to talk to teams ahead of free agency?

Pierre LeBrun: Dan Milstein, the agent for Minnesota Wild pending UFA forward Vladimir Tarsenko, has permission to talk with teams ahead of free agency on Wednesday.

• Michael Russo: “Not only does Milstein not have permission from the Wild, the league recently warned all teams they cannot give blanket permission for UFA’s to do this. You can trade rights and then they can talk to that specific team”

The Carolina Hurricanes won’t buy out Jesperi Kotkaniemi 

Frank Seravalli: The buyout window is getting close to closing. The Carolina Hurricanes are not expected to buy out forward Jesperi Kotkaniemi, which would be 1/3 of his deal.

He was a healthy scratch for all of their playoff games. With the salary cap rising, they’re willing to play the long game.