With Dustin Byfuglien locked up long-term look for Atlanta to announce a contract extension to another former Chicago Blackhawk.

The team has already opened up talks with Andrew Ladd whose deal should be completed by the trade deadline.

Anaheim….

Look for the Ducks to move D-man as they all of the sudden have a surplus on the back end. They may not all be big names but GM Bob Murray will look to unload at least one. Anaheim has nine D-men who basically have one way contracts. I’m including youngsters Cam Fowler and Luca Sbisa who are in their entry level deals.

Colorado….

This team is the hardest to figure out….They have one of the healthiest Owners in the league in Stan Kroenke yet they don’t spend. Will they sell or stand still? My guess is they will stand still since they seem to run the team like they’re going broke.

Columbus….

I’m told the Blues Jackets will look to move a D-man for a forward if they can. They have several D-men in their system who can step in and play including John Moore, Grant Clitsome, and Nick Holden.

Pittsburgh….

It’s been well documented that the Penguins will be looking to add a forward with the injuries they’ve sustained. All of their D-men are signed through next season…although it’s doubtful, there have been some very minor rumblings that GM Ray Shero would consider moving Alex Goligoski for the right player. How many teams would love to have this guy?

I didn't quite understand Mario Lemieux's comments by the way after the brawl with the Islanders. The reason why Eric Godard received such a heavy suspension was because he left the bench. The rule is pretty blcak and white. Let's not act like Pittsburgh is a team full of a bunch of choir boys either. They have Matt Cooke who is known to cross the line not to mention they're near the top in fighting majors. Being without Godard will not hurt them in the short-term.

Chicago…..

Source affiliated with the Blackhawks says do not expect Chicago to do anything. They have very little wiggle room salary wise. Unless they can move some money out that matches what they would be bringing in it looks like the Hawks will stand pat.

Buffalo….

If Buffalo were to fall out of playoff contention between now and the deadline they would consider moving D-man Jordan Leopold. This is according to a source close to the franchise. With the Sabers only two points out as we sit today, this doesn’t appear too promising.     

St. Louis….

Brad Winchester is getting a look form a couple of teams including the Vancouver Canucks but it may be in the Blues best interest to hang onto him. He comes relatively cheap and provides some size and toughness with the ability to stand in front of the net and be that physical presence teams want up front.

The Blues will certainly explore all options when it comes to moving Eric Brewer. He does have a no-trade clause, but will consider waiving it for the right situation.

The Blues have made goaltender Ty Conklin available.

More to come,

Andy Strickland

strickland.andy@gmail.com