NHL Buzz: Thursday, August 12th

The Tomas Kaberle deadline is getting closer (it's three days away) and talks are heating up. I must have received over 50 text messages yesterday from sources regarding Kaberle. It really does sound like the offers the Maple Leafs are getting are improving steadily.

It is also worth noting that Burke said in an interview with Yahoo! Sports that the offers are getting better, and he expects them to get even better this weekend.

Several people were asking me about Arron Asham yesterday, and here is what I have for you: The Canucks and the Lightning seem the most interested; however, Asham wants to stay in Philly if possible and will wait to see if they can make room for him.

I personally think Arron Asham is a very underrated player and any team would be lucky to have him. I am sure he will find a new home very soon.

Andy Strickland confirmed on his twitter yesterday that the Coyotes are among the teams interested in Lee Stempniak, and he also noted that other teams are interested. It is believed that the other teams are the Penguins and Islanders.

The Sharks appear to be leading the way for Willie Mitchell, and I am told the Canucks are not far behind. He would be a great fit for both teams. If Mitchell does indeed return to the Canucks, they will have a huge logjam on defense with Kevin Bieksa the most likely trade candidate.

Speaking of the Sharks, they also appear to be the front-runners for Antti Niemi; whether he signs there or not remains to be seen, but as of right now they are leading the pack.

As you all know, the Sharks have had big time problems in the playoffs. What better way is there to fix it than to sign a goalie with a Stanley Cup ring?

James Mirtle of The Globe and Mail is reporting that the mystery team Eric Belanger has signed with is NOT the Maple Leafs.

This concludes today's edition of NHL Buzz, enjoy.

If you have any questions or comments feel free to email me at [e-mail] anytime, thanks.

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