Spector’s Hockey:
SPECTOR’S NOTE: If the Jackets do acquire Malone’s rights expect them to re-sign him soon afterward. As for those picks Portzline also noted that the Jackets are in the market for a puck-moving blueliner. The Canadiens might not be able to re-sign defenseman Mark Streit so one wonders if they might dangle him for the Jackets 6th overall pick. The Panthers have Jay Bouwmeester and might consider moving him if he only signs a one-year contract and the Sharks might consider dealing Brian Campbell if they know they can’t re-sign him. The Sens could dangle blueliner Andrej Meszaros, a restricted free agent. Still, this is just musing on my part. The Habs and Sens don’t have a first line center to part with, the Jackets reportedly won’t be landing Jokinen, while the Sharks’ Patrick Marleau has been oft-linked to the Jackets in recent weeks.
Habster:
The Columbus Blue Jackets are in need of an offensive defenseman to help replace Ron Hainsey and also quarterback their powerplay so this possibility isn’t a stretch.
Mark Streit certainly fits the bill and if he out prices himself beyond what the Canadiens want to pay then I would jump at a deal that would give the Habs the 6th overall pick at Friday’s first round draft selection.