Kings search for a star
The Los Angeles Kings have been linked all spring to Tampa Bay star Vincent Lecavalier, but we’re told those talks have cooled off for now. One Eastern Conference source told us Saturday the New York Rangers have made Scott Gomez available around the league, but we’re not sure how interested the Kings are in him. It’s a heck of a big contract.
For our money, we believe the guy the Kings covet the most is gritty and skilled winger Ryan Smyth of the Colorado Avalanche. He’s got a big contact as well, but the word is Los Angeles might view him as a character guy who could help its young stars develop. Of course, it’s not clear at this point whether Smyth, who has a no-movement clause, is even available.
That will probably depend greatly on what Joe Sakic decides to do about his playing future. If Sakic wants to come back for another season in Colorado, you have to think new GM Greg Sherman will want to keep the band together and delay the blow-up for a season. Stay tuned.
Blake and the Sharks
We exchanged text messages with Rob Blake on Friday and the veteran blueliner said he was leaning toward coming back to play another season. He’s going to meet with San Jose Sharks GM Doug Wilson this week and we’re told agent Pat Brisson has already been in talks with San Jose about a new deal. Blake, who is an unrestricted free agent July 1, looked far from done this past season, so we’re not surprised to hear he wants to play again.