A collection of the latest news from around the world of hockey:
BREAKING NEWS: The Senators have acquired Dion Phaneuf from the Leafs in a massive trade. [NHL]. Quick reaction: The Leafs shed Phaneuf’s salary, while taking on some dead weight from the Sens. Ottawa gets a solid defenceman who doesn’t have to be a number one. Toronto can start fresh with a new captain. [Hot Stove]
Milan Lucic’s letter to Boston. [The Players Tribune]
Remember when Sidney Crosby was washed up and his best days were behind him? Those were a funny couple of months. Sid has served notice that he is still in the conversation for best player in the world. Considering the injuries the Penguins have right now, and what he’s been able to do, I would say that he is currently the best. [Trib Live]. His second of two goals last night against a very good Ducks team? Just wow. [CBS Sports]
If Crosby keeps up this pace, should he get Hart Trophy considersation? [Today’s Slap Shot]
Alain Vigneault is mad that his player is hurt. Can’t fault him for that. He believes the league is inconsistent with punishment. No argument there. But to cite the tired old false refrain that Sidney Crosby gets preferential treatment is lazy, uniformed and just plain childish. [Puck Daddy]
The Leafs are faced with key injuries. Who’s going to score the goals? [Globe and Mail]
Todd McLellan is questioning the leadership and character of his squad. [Edmonton Journal]
The Winnipeg Jets chose the right player to re-sign (assuming they couldn’t keep both). Dustin Byfuglien is one of the best defenceman in the league, he does it all on the ice and his contract is a very fair number. Good job, Jets. [Sportsnet]
What do you think about this hit on Barkov? [The Hockey News]
Should the Canadiens tank for a shot at Auston Matthews? [Rabid Habs]
And finally, that Scott Darling is a nice dude. [Bar Down]
