Yesterday was some big news. The Toronto Maple Leafs gave us our opening day roster and players cleared waivers and we had a trade! There was lesser news by lesser teams as well. The Montreal Canadiens named a new captain (Shea Weber, of course) and they also made a trade of their own:

The important name there is Rinat Valiev. Along with Kerby Rychel and a 2nd round pick, Valiev was the return Montreal got for Tomas Plekanec at last seasons trade deadline.

What the Leafs gave up in the Tomas Plekanec trade

The Canadiens had already trade Kerby Rychel to Calgary in August for Hunter Shinkaruk, now Valiev will join him there in Stockton.

With the second round pick the Canadiens selected Jacob Olofsson from Timrå IK of the SHL, where he’s currently playing. Until Montreal trades him too.

Here are your links.

Maple Leafs Preseason Wrap-Up - Centre of Leafs Nation

Florida Panthers Forward Radim Vrbata Announces Retirement - LWOS

Gibbons, Simmons and more - TSM

The Rangers’ Opening Night Roster Is (Un)Expectedly Disappointing - Blueshirt Banter
For an organization looking to infuse speed and youth into their NHL lineup, New York’s roster is largely devoid of new blood

Buffalo Sabres add defenseman prospect Jack Dougherty for Nick Baptiste in trade with Nashville Predators - Die By The Blade
Nick Baptiste exchanged for defenseman Jack Dougherty

One year later, Vegas is stronger than ever - Knights On Ice
The healing process may never end, but there’s some to be happy about one year later.

Stand Down: Islanders release new/old third jersey for 2018-19 - Lighthouse Hockey
It still has the definite feel of the EA Sports NHL video game create-a-jersey project, but again, it’s mostly inoffensive and fine.

One more day until opening night!

From The Branches