With a look to in-house content, Craig Custance discusses potential changes to the NHL's overtime rules (bye-bye shootout?). Custance also outlines which players in the East would be protected in a 2013 mock expansion draft. In the Summer Skate, Hockey Prospectus volleys projections for the Dallas Stars. Elsewhere ...
Now that Nazem Kadri is locked in with a two-year, $5.8 million deal, the bulk of attention turns to unsigned restricted free-agent Cody Franson. As of Wednesday morning, TSN's Darren Dreger suggests the Toronto Maple Leafs and defenseman remain far apart, as far as a new contract is concerned.
The Florida Panthers have invited veteran forward Brad Boyes to camp on a professional tryout. There's word the unrestricted free agent is opting for a shot with the Panthers over a similar opportunity with the New York Islanders.
There's also confirmation -- compliments of TSN's Bob McKenzie -- that the Florida squad has officially invited a rested-up Tim Thomas to camp, as anticipated. The veteran goalie's reps have reportedly been busy of late, trying to find the best fit for their client.
The Ottawa Senators and agent for RFA defenseman Jared Cowen have yet to agree on a new deal, but continue to talk. Meanwhile, the Senators are expected to name a new captain in the next couple of days. Forward Jason Spezza is considered the favorite to replace Daniel Alfredsson in the leadership role.
One last Sens bit: Coach Paul MacLean tells TSN he plans to launch the preseason with a top line of Bobby Ryan, Spezza and Milan Michalek.
Unrestricted free-agent defenseman Ian White will attend camp for the Winnipeg Jets on a professional tryout.
The Calgary Flames haven't even hit the ice yet and forward Mike Cammalleri is already the subject of (vague) trade rumors.
With Joni Pitkanen (foot) out, rookie defenseman Ryan Murphy could enjoy a prominent role with the Carolina Hurricanes this season. Of course, he has to make the team first.
Young forward Brandon Pirri appears to be the leading candidate to fill the second-line center role with the Chicago Blackhawks.
The New York Daily News suggests we shouldn't be surprised if the New York Rangers sign RFA Derek Stepan to a two-year "bridge" deal in the very near future. Even though the RFA forward would ideally prefer a long-term contract.
Talks continue between the St. Louis Blues and RFA defenseman Alex Pietrangelo in the hope of hammering out a new contract before too long.
New Jersey Devils coach Pete DeBoer doesn't intend to take it easy on veteran Jaromir Jagr at training camp.