Gerber not being shopped, but Senators still like to move him

Ottawa Senators GM Bryan Murray tells Ottawa Sun’s Bruce Garrioch that there are no trade talks going on for goalie Martin Gerber.

“I’ve talked to some teams,” said Murray. “There is nobody at this point that has indicated they can take on a goaltender or needs one.”

According to sources, some interest in Gerber was expressed by the Los Angeles Kings and Phoenix Coyotes. Both teams are said to have put any plans to reshape their roster on hold until after training camp, however.

“I think everybody that talks about trades, you now have to wait until teams start and see if anybody has a need in that area.”

“But I’m not calling teams any longer to make that happen. We’ve had conversations with (Gerber) and his agent. Now, we just have to play.”

Murray also admitted that he has conveyed to Gerber’s agent that he will “try to accommodate” his client’s “request for a trade.” A solid start to the season is sure to drive up his trade value.

“I suspect he will. I said this to our coaching staff, ‘I think he’s a heck of a guy to start off with and he’s a good goaltender,’ ” said Murray. “I think he won 12 of his last 15 games. We know he can play well in this league.”

By upping his performance, Gerber may make it easier for other teams to swallow the remaining two years and $7.4 million on his contract.

“The only judgment ever made on him seems to be financial.”

“But he is capable of being a No. 1 goalie. If (Emery) can’t start right away, I feel very confident that (Gerber) can do the job for us.”