BHN Daily Links: David Backes Update, Edmonton Oilers Talking Trade

This isn’t the average NHL summer. Multiple NHL teams, including both the Boston Bruins and Edmonton Oilers, are attempting to make trades to either shed salary to re-sign RFA’s or improve their current roster. Although that doesn’t seem like news, it actually is. Mid-July is usually cottage time for NHL scouts and GM’s. The fact those guys are working overtime this year just proves that the summer of 2019 is a rare one. More on the trade talks involving both of those teams in a moment. Here are the top stories from around the hockey world on Tuesday, July 16th.

First reported by our own Jimmy Murphy over the weekend, the Boston Bruins have focused their efforts on dealing veteran David Backes in an attempt to clear cap. Yesterday, Murph gave an update on trade talks between Boston and a Metro division club with interest in Backes. (Boston Hockey Now +)

Another day, another 2019 first round draft pick signed. On Monday, the Ottawa Senators agreed to terms with D Lassi Thomson. Thomson was selected 19th overall last month by the Senators. (NHL.com)

There’s a new goalie in town in Montreal. Yes, Carey Price is still around, but the Canadiens added veteran Keith Kinkaid via free agency to backup Price. Unlike previous backups, Price won’t have to worry about babysitting the man who led the Devils to the 2018 Stanley Cup Playoffs. (Montreal Gazette)

Edmonton Oilers GM Ken Holland is still quite active when it comes to the trade front. The veteran boss is attempting to add a 20-goal scorer to Edmonton’s forward ranks while also shedding the Milan Lucic contract. It certainly seems like there could be some news this week. (The Oilers Rig)

Sonny Milano accepted his qualifying offer from Columbus on Monday. (NHL.com)