Now that the Stanley Cup has been handed out to the Los Angeles Kings, it is time for the NHLfranchises to participate in the annual free agency feeding frenzy. Last summer, Brad Richards was the top prize that every team sought. This summer, the betting sites have several free agents they are keeping their eyes on.
Let’s take a look at what the NHLfree agent market has to offer for 2012 and try to see what kind of impact the legal online sports betting sites feel each player will have when they make their move.
Rick Nash – Columbus Blue Jackets
The pay per head sportsbook experts all agree that Rick Nash would be a great signing for any team. The strongest rumor for teams to sign Nash is the Boston Bruins. There is a story circulating thatBoston goalie Tim Thomas is still feeling the lingering effects of an injury he suffered two years ago. Thomas may want to take the 2012-2013 season off. Without Thomas, the Bruins may have the cap room to bring in Nash and see if the team can make another run at a Cup. Look forColumbus to put a bid in to keep Nash as he is the only reason why people are buying tickets to Blue Jackets’ games.
Alexander Radulov – Nashville Predators
If Alexander Radulov would just commit to theNHL, he could be a superstar in a very short period of time. The Predators have no interest in signing Radulov to a new contract and the rumor circulating is because he wants to play inRussiaagain next season. Radulov is highly sought after by teams like the Buffalo Sabres and Toronto Maple Leafs, but that may not be enough to keep him inNorth America.
Zach Parise – New Jersey Devils
It is always strange to see a long-time Devil wearing another jersey, but that looks like it will be the case fort Zach Parise. A 5 dimes review of the Devils’ history with older, high priced free agents indicates thatNew Jersey will probably let Parise go without a fight. Just about every team in the NHL wants Parise, but he will more than likely go to a team that he feels has the best chance at contending for a Stanley Cup.
Alexander Semin – Washington Capitals
This is Capitals’ chance to show that it is serious about winning a championship. Semin will be one of the most highly sought after free agents on the market, butWashingtonneeds to step up and keep him in the nation’s capital.
Ryan Suter – Nashville Predators
If the Predators lose Radulov and Suter, then it will begin dismantling a team that had a great deal of promise. The Predators lost a lot of key players to free agency last summer and cannot afford the same hit this year. The Preds will have to pony up the cash for Suter and Shea Weber if it wants to be a playoff contender again next season.
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