A Bundle of Things including a Zubov Signing a Winchester Trade, and a Lee Rumor

I might as well induge in rumors tonight since I will be away from the computer for the weekend, where I usually post some Sens rumors across the net.

Let me start by saying everything is quiet in Sens land for rumors. After a whole summer of rumors, BMur would like to see what he’s come up with first and then make decisions. Usually there are some minor trades or waiver pick-ups in the first quarter of the season. The Sens currently have 14 forwards (including the injured Shannon and Winchester) and 7 defenseman (if you don’t include Lee). It’s nice to have depth, but clearing room = stability on the team.

First, it seems like as if Ilya Zubov has gotten his wish. I have been told Zubov has verbally agreed to a deal with Traktor Chelyabinsk of the KHL. Murray granted Zubov permission to speak with KHL teams a week ago and is willing to release Zubs from his contract. Zubov now returns to his former team as a junior and his hometown. Everyone who has followed me knows Ilya was my favorite prospect. After so many dimwitted Russians who put themselves before the team (please don’t make me name them), I really believed Zubov was the chosen one. The only Russian who worked his ass off and actually tried to make the team. Not only was he cut 3 seasons in a row, but his status was downgraded on the depth chart after the emergence of Peter Regin and Zack Smith. I really hoped he would amke it this year, but it didn’t work out. All the best to him over there, even though this situation hasn’t been finalized.

Next, Jesse Winchester looks to be on the trading block. I don’t believe he his but some sources are saying contrary. One rumor is the Bruins looking into Winchie as a 4th line centre, and I believe it’s plausible. I guess the return would be some sort of mid-round pick, but a minor-leaguer may be in due. However, I am sure Winchester will be heading to Binghamton in a while to mend his game. I, however won’t be too surprised if he does eventually get traded.

Next to a juicy topic out there. 2005 first round pick Brian Lee has never really met expectations. He finished last year solid and played well in the 08 playoffs, but all of the training camps he has participated in have been sub-average and I think Murray might be ready to part ways with him with the emergence of Karlsson, Carkner, Cowen, and later on Wiercioch. Some commentators have suggested a Volchenkov re-signing will officially end Lee’s tenure as a Sen but if something happens Brian will be likely back with the big club for some time. Though, sources have said that the New York Islanders are very much interested in Lee and would like to add him to their defense. Other than Mark Streit and possibly Freddy Meyer there is no puck movers on this team. Lee could fix that. I could see a pretty good return for him, but this is still just a rumor.

My prediction? Winchester goes to Binghamton and Lee gets traded.

Anyway, just another thing. Here is 5 remaining UFA’s that should garner some attention.

G Manny Fernandez- Signs in Calgary for 1 year, 1.2 million

F Miroslav Satan- Signs in the KHL

D Rhett Warrener- No Freakin Clue

D Greg De Vries- Signs in the KHL

Radek Bonk- Signs in Los Angeles for 2 years, 1.5 million