NHL Rumors and Rumblings: Buds Turn Up The Heat, Avs Talking With Oilers

It's been a busy week in the NHL, with the re-signings of Cody Parent, David Perron, Ondrej Pavelec and Mason Raymond, Spezza setting the record straight and Gange getting traded to Tampa Bay.

Unfortunately, all of that was over shadowed by Ilya Kovalchuk.

Kovalchuk signed, and even had an official press conference for, his new 17-year, $102 million contract on July 19th. However that deal was rejected by the NHL for salary cap circumvention. On Monday, the NHLPA filed a grievance on behalf of Ilya Kovalchuk, sending the case to an arbitrator, which leads us into this week's NHL rumors and rumblings.

Will the NHL fine the Devils?

Mark Everson of the New York Post says that the National Hockey League is not threatening to fine the New Jersey Devils for salary cap circumvention, but have not ruled out that option.

If the NHL does decide to fine the team, it could be anywhere from $1 million to $5 million. Kovalchuk, meanwhile, could face a fine as low as $250 thousand and as high as $1 million. That is, of course, if an arbiter rules in favour of the NHL.

Maple Leafs turning up the heat

TSN.ca is reporting that the Maple Leafs will be "turning up the heat" when it comes to Tomas Kaberle sometime around August 1st.

They will begin telling teams that already have offers on the table for Kaberle to improve them, or he will be taken off the market.

Bruins, Wheeler going to arbitration?

James Murphy of ESPN.com is reporting that the Boston Bruins and forward Blake Wheeler have reached an impasse in contract talks and are expected to go to arbitration today (Tuesday).

Oilers, Avalanche talking about Cogliano?

The Edmonton Journal is reporting that the Colorado Avalanche have called the Edmonton Oilers about the availability of Andrew Cogliano.

Savard trade talks are still ongoing

TheFourthPeriod.com is reporting that 33-year-old centre Marc Savard is still being shopped around by the Boston Bruins. The report also says that other various reports have linked the talks to the Leafs, Kings and Oilers.

Selanne returning to the Ducks?

Temmu Selanne is still in talks with the Anaheim Ducks about making a return, says the Orange County Register. Ducks GM Bob Murray also told the Register that he met with Selanne and his agent this week, and that he is expecting to meet with them again next week.

Be sure to check out Buds In Blue by going to www.budsinblue.wordpress.com for  more in depth analysis and opinion. You can also follow Buds in Blue on Twitter @lukas_bib for even more up-to-date information on your Toronto Maple Leafs!