Campbell, Senators, and Stastny

Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun reports that the Buffalo Sabres haven’t had any substantial contract talks with impending unrestricted free agent defenseman Brian Campbell.

“It’s tough to really comment on,” said Campbell. “There’s been a little bit (of discussions), but nothing serious. We’ll see what happens. I’d like to stay here, but I don’t know. There’s still time left to get something done. I’d like to get something done sooner than later, but that’s not (his) choice or decision.”

Campbell is supposedly looking for a five-year, $25 million deal.

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Ottawa Senators GM Bryan Murray tells Garrioch that there aren’t any suitors for goalies Martin Gerber or Ray Emery.

“I have not had one call,” said Murray. “Earlier in the season, I initiated a couple of calls, but beyond that, I have not had one call.”

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Adrian Dater of the Denver Post suggests that the Colorado Avalanche aren’t feeling pressured to sign forward Paul Stastny to an extremely long-term contract (i.e. eight- to 12 years) since he won’t qualify for Group 2 free agency when his current contract ends.

Because the Avalanche will not be “exposed to any kind of hostile takeover bid for his services this summer,” they can afford to take their time locking up their best player to a deal both sides can feel comfortable with.