It's that time of year again. It's the day that you've all been dreading. The day we wish we could just lock Dave Nonis in a closet and just leave him in there until other teams have finished doing horrible damage to their respective cap situations.

Let's hope that Dave Bolland, Steve Ott, Brooks Orpik, and all the other "grit and heart" players find homes before Nonis can offer them the moon. This team is lacking in skill, not obsolescence.

Unfortunately, it doesn't look like we're in luck. Hold on to your hats, ladies and gentlemen.

On to the links.

Leafs buy out Tim Gleason

This is good news inasmuch as it means that Gleason won't play for the Leafs anymore and in the short-term, the Leafs will have more money to spend. The bad news is that Dave Nonis is the one spending that money.

Steve Dangle and Gus Katsaros chat about Kulemin

We know Kulemin is as good as gone (probably to the Pens) but the boys have a chat about his value as a player and where he should fit in on an NHL roster.

Gunnarsson reaction to being traded

He joined "Macko and Cauz" on TSN radio. He also addresses criticism of Phaneuf.

Josh Gorges in shock Bergevin wants to trade him

At least he won't agree to come to Toronto! Story from TSN.

The lottery ticket approach to goaltending

How could NHL teams exploit the market? Just ask Eric T.

Fans grant Gino Odjick's dying wish

He wanted to hear them chant his name one last time. Woof, this is a tough story to follow. So, so sad.

Daniel Brière traded for P.A. Parenteau

Bergevin has been killing it, lately. From Habs Eyes On The Prize.

Michael Del Zotto goes unqualified

He'll hit the UFA market today after not quite fitting in with his team in Nashville. From Puck Daddy.

Would Vanek and/or Moulson return to the island?

My guess is 'no', but I'd kind of like to see the Islanders do well for a while. Story from Puck Daddy.

Keith Aulie not given qualifying offer

This is interesting news. Remember when he got traded? Reaction from Raw Charge.

Cory Conacher not qualified by the Sabres

Hm. He could be an interesting acquisition if it was on the cheap. From Raw Charge again. (He was a former Lightning prospect, so they're kind of keeping tabs on him.)

Kings re-sign Schultz to two year deal

It's worth $850k per season as per TSN. THAT'S how much Nonis should be paying for depth defencemen.

From The Branches