NHL Buzz: The Latest On Paul Mara, James Neal, Sheldon Souray and More

Larry Brooks of the NY Post is reporting that Paul Mara is set to sign a one-year contract with the Anaheim Ducks.

My take: This is a great signing by the Ducks if and when they get it done. Paul Mara is a solid defensive defenseman and a great team guy. He would also give their young defensive prospects another year to get "NHL ready".

Pierre LeBrun of ESPN is reporting that James Neal and the Dallas Stars are close to a contract extension.

My take: I am glad this is almost over for the sake of the Dallas Stars organization. They have a bright future but it certainly wouldn't be as bright if James Neal was not a part of the team.

The Oilers are still trying to deal Sheldon Souray. Today I was told the only way the Oilers could move Souray is if they take some salary in return and include a draft pick or two with Souray.

My take: It makes a ton of sense to me, no one wants an injury prone defenseman with a cap hit of over five million dollars.

The Devils continue to shop players in an attempt to get under the cap. The Devils only want to move one defenseman which means they will have to move a forward as well. I am hearing Zubrus and Rolston are the main targets up front but if they can't move one of them, Jamie Langenbrunner could be moved.

My take: I would hate to see Langenbrunner go but if the Devils can't get under the cap they will have to move him. I have heard the Maple Leafs and Sabres would express interest if he becomes available.

The Vancouver Canucks have invited Peter Schaeffer to camp on a tryout basis.

My take: I have said this hundreds of times and I will say it again. I love tryouts because they are straight forward and it doesn't cost them anything. If Schaeffer plays well, he gets a contract. If not, he doesn't.

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

If you have any questions or comments about anything (news, rumors, etc...), feel free to email me at [e-mail] anytime, thanks.

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