A list of RFA players ineligible for offer sheets, an update on the Predators’ search for a new general manager, and the latest on the Canucks in today’s NHL Rumor Mill.
LIST OF RFAS NOT ELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE OFFER SHEETS THIS SUMMER.
PUCKPEDIA: recently released their list of Group 2 restricted free agents classified as 10.2(C) players, making them ineligible for offer sheets or arbitration rights.
SPECTOR’S NOTE: The article linked above explains the criteria players must meet to avoid becoming 10.2(C) RFAs.
Anaheim Ducks winger Cutter Gauthier (NHL Images).
The notable players this year include Anaheim Ducks winger Cutter Gauthier, Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Alexander Nikishin, San Jose Sharks forward Collin Graf, and Philadelphia Flyers winger Nikita Grebenkin.
SPECTOR’S NOTE: I’m linking to this because a few readers have mentioned Gauthier, Nikishin, and Graf as potential offer sheet targets.
There are two ways these players change teams this summer. One is if their respective teams don’t qualify their rights, and they become unrestricted free agents. The other is trading them. I don’t foresee either situation occurring for Gauthier, Nikishin, Graf, and Grebenkin.
PREDATORS
THE TENNESSEAN: Alex Daugherty recently reported on the Nashville Predators’ search for a new general manager to replace Barry Trotz, who intends to step down as soon as his replacement is found.
The Predators sought permission from the Toronto Maple Leafs to speak with assistant general manager Brandon Pridham. Former Edmonton Oilers GM Peter Chiarelli has also been linked to the Predators.
Florida Panthers assistant general manager Brett Peterson and Oilers assistant GM Bill Scott are believed to be on the Predators’ search list. Former Montreal Canadiens GM Marc Bergevin has also been mentioned as a candidate.
SPORTSNET: Elliotte Friedman said the Predators could be about to begin in-person interviews with the candidates. He believes that Peterson and Scott are among them, along with Dallas Stars assistant general manager Scott White and possibly former Arizona Coyotes GM John Chayka.
Friedman believes Predators current assistant GM Jeff Kealty could be in the mix. He also thinks they reached out to player agent Matt Kater. Friedman brought up Tom Fitzgerald, given the uncertainty about the New Jersey Devils general manager this season.
CANUCKS
TSN: Darren Dreger addressed recent rumors suggesting the Vancouver Canucks could make a management shakeup, saying that Patrik Allvin has no intention of leaving as general manager. Dreger said Allvin remains “highly regarded” as GM of the team.