Today in the NHL (8/25): Kovalchuk, Kaberle, Bieksa, Stempniak and More

Update:

News on Kaberle

Ilya Kovalchuk

Mark Everson of the New York Times is reporting that the NHL has rejected a proposed contract from the Devils to sign Kovalchuk. Apparently the framework of the contract is the issue.

The NHL could be tempting the star forward to take his talents to the KHL. Losing Kovalchuk (especially to a rival league) would be terrible for the NHL.

Tomas Kaberle

According to The Hockey News, Maple Leafs coach Ron Wilson wants to meet with Kaberle "to set things straight. According to Kaberle's father, it's either Wilson or his son. Kaberle's father told the media that Kaberle won't re-sign at the end of the season if Wilson is still the coach. However, if Leafs management give Wilson the boot, Kaberle might consider re-signing with the Leafs.

Kevin Bieksa

The Vancouver Province is reporting that the injuries sustained to defenseman Sami Salo and forward Alex Burrows could keep Bieksa in Vancouver...for now.

Signing Raffi Torres ($1M for one year) earlier today could determine the Bieksa's destination. The whole point of trading Bieksa was to get a forward. Signing Torres gets rid of that need.

Lee Stempniak

The Coyotes still have significant interest in Stempniak. However, the Thrashers have come into play. Craig Custance of SportingNews.com reports that Atlanta GM Rick Dudley would like to add a UFA forward and has contacted Stempniak. 

Also re-signing RFA Befgfors, one of the mains pieces of the Kovalchuk trade, is Dudley's number one priority and should re-sign soon. 

Jere Lehtinen

The veteran winger is undecided on whether he wants to play in the NHL this season or not. Mike Helka of the Dallas Morning News reports that Lehtinen will be meeting with Dallas GM Joe Nieuwendyk on Wednesday. 

Stay tuned for more updates!