Teams line up for Ryan Johansen

Johansen could be traded by the Blue Jackets

Columbus will take their time when wanting to trade Ryan Johansen. The relationship between the Johansen clan and the Columbus Blue Jackets has been sour ever since he held up when his contract was being negotiated last year. This year, even with Johansen in the line up, the Jackets have had their part of problems. The latest dispute between head coach John Tortorella and Ryan Johansen could be the last drop in the bucket for Johansen. Despite that fact, Jarmo Kekalainen will ensure he maximize his return in exchange of his star center.

Johansen this year has played in 33 games and scored 6 goals with 17 assists for 23 point. He is a minus-6. Teams looking at Ryan Johansen are the Nashville Predators, St-Louis Blues, Montreal Canadiens and Los Angeles Kings. We could expect Ryan Johansen will be inquired about by many teams leading to the trade deadline 29 Feb 16.

Kopitar to resign with Kings

It is only a matter of weeks Anze Kopitar and the Los Angeles Kings will come to an agreement for a long term deal. The only issues that were still being negotiated were the no-trade-clause and for how long it would be in effect during the contract term. Kopitar is asking for a salary in the vicinity of what Patrick Kane and captain Jonathan Toews are earning with the Chicago Blackhawks. It is also the same type of deal sought by star forward center Steven Stamkos with the Tampa Bay Lightning. It is believed Kopitar is looking at an eight year extension in the $10M salary range.

Rumors are stating that a deal is imminent between the sides and a deal could be reached in January.  The current NHL Holiday Roster Freeze which is now in effect will run through 27 December but teams can still resign players to contract extensions during that period.