nhl notebook
The defending Stanley Cup champion Chicago Blackhawks placed veteran forward Bryan Bickell on waivers Friday in their latest move to reshape their high-priced roster. A person familiar with the decision told The Associated Press of the decision, and spoke on the condition of anonymity because the Blackhawks did not include Bickell as part of their roster moves Friday. Teams have until noon on Saturday to claim Bickell. In making the move, the Blackhawks freed up $4 million that Bickell’s contract represents against their salary cap. Chicago has made a series of cost-cutting moves this off-season after winning their third championship in six years. The Blackhawks traded forwards Brandon Saad (to Columbus), Patrick Sharp (to Dallas), Kris Versteeg (to Carolina) and also lost Brad Richards, who signed with Detroit in free agency. The 29-year-old Bickell is a rugged forward who was the focus of trade speculation this summer. Bickell signed a four-year, $16 million contract after his strong work in the playoffs helped Chicago win the championship in 2013.
The Detroit Red Wings will start the season without defenceman Danny DeKeyser, who will be out three to four weeks with a sprained ligament in his left foot. DeKeyser was hurt in the third period of Wednesday night’s game against at Pittsburgh. He had two goals and 29 assists in 80 games last year. The Red Wings open the season Oct. 9 at home against the Toronto Maple Leafs and their former coach, Mike Babcock. The Red Wings also said first-round pick Evgeny Svechnikov has agreed to terms on a three year, entry-level deal. Detroit drafted the Russian winger 19th overall. He is playing for the Cape Breton Screaming Eagles of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League.
The Senators put Colin Greening on waivers and he cleared. General manager Bryan Murray said he will continue to try and work out a trade for Greening, but has had no success. Greening has two years and $5.95 million left on his contract. The Associated Press reported that the Rangers also put defenceman Raphael Diaz on waivers.