Posted by George James Malik
August 20, 2007 02:29AM
The Columbus Blue Jackets lost forward Alexander Svitov to Avangard Omsk of the Russian Superleague, and as such, they've got a few million dollars to spend. They're interested in free agent centre Mike Peca, as well as former Detroit Red Wings defenceman Danny Markov:
August 19, Columbus Dispatch: The Blue Jackets joined the Peca chase Friday after learning that center Alexander Svitov will play in Russia next season. Svitov's unexpected move freed up $1 million, and the Blue Jackets already were between $800,000 and $1 million below their player budget, meaning they could make Peca a significant offer. ... Blue Jackets general manager Scott Howson left Columbus yesterday to meet his family for a vacation in Calgary, Alberta. But it won't be relaxing right away. The Jackets are intent on using Svitov's money to add another player, and they will either shore up the roster at center or on defense before training camp opens Sept. 14.
Other centers the Jackets likely will consider if they can't sign Peca are Jason Allison and Mike Johnson. The top target among defensemen is Danny Markov.
August 18, Columbus Dispatch: "The most intriguing thing about Columbus -- if a scenario presented itself for me to sign there -- is there aren't many coaches I hold in higher regard as Ken Hitchcock," Peca said. "And I have a lot of respect for Scott Howson and the things he did in Edmonton that a lot of people don't know about. I think there's a lot of great hockey left in me. I think it'd be great to come in and contribute to a team like that."
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Blue Jackets remain interested in Markov
Blue Jackets remain interested in Markov
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