Friedman: Sorting through the NHL draft rumour mill

So many names were thrown into the rumour mill at the NHL draft that it was borderline impossible to process them all. But here are some of the major storylines to follow, including the Vancouver Canucks goalie situation.

Finally saw Man of Steel on Friday night. You know that scene where General Zod arrives on Earth and is completely overwhelmed by his new powers?

That's what it was like arriving at the NHL Draft on Saturday. So many names were thrown into the rumour mill that it was borderline impossible to process them all. But here are some of the major storylines to follow:

*When a general manager is asked about a player potentially being traded, and the response is, "We are listening to proposals...You never say never," well, that's more than just smoke. That's called being tempted, and the Vancouver Canucks have a decision to make.

After a lengthy dance with Roberto Luongo, Mike Gillis is looking at the entire situation and saying: "What is going to make us better? Is it a surrender on Luongo's deal, letting him go and keeping Schneider? Or, is it keeping Luongo, and adding whatever we can get for Schneider?"

Logic dictates the answer is choice number two. People like Schneider, both as a goalie and a person. He has value.

There was a rumour going around Saturday that Gillis might jettison both goalies and start over with Mike Smith, who is a former client from the GM's agent days. 

That was forcefully denied.

There is, of course, another angle to this. Does Luongo want to stay in Vancouver as the undisputed No. 1 even if Schneider is traded? Months ago, I was told by several sources that the only way this could happen was if both sides sat down and had a lengthy conversation about the way things would have to be.

I'm not sure that conversation has happened. But, there is no way the Canucks could try it without being certain Luongo would agree to all of this. Could they?

Gillis made sure to keep all of his options open. He didn't say Schneider would be traded, but let everyone know it is possible. He didn't say Luongo wouldn't be bought out, but said he hadn't decided.

What we do know is this: the Canucks are considering a new approach.

Vincent Lecavalier's potential suitors

*Friday night, Vincent Lecavalier decided to go to New York for a Saturday full of meetings with interested teams.

Although he cannot sign a contract until July 5, Lecavalier initially indicated he wanted to choose a new destination beforehand. But, there's been so much interest, he might need a little more time to whittle down the list and maybe make a visit or two.

The interviewees included Toronto, Montreal, St. Louis, Anaheim, Philadelphia (the Flyers arrived earlier than initially planned so they could talk with him) and Dallas. Detroit and Calgary get their facetime Sunday morning before Lecavalier departs.

Florida did not meet with him, but GM Dale Tallon told reporters they will make contact post-draft. The Panthers would be a real interesting one. Their budget is tight, but you could make an argument stretching it to make room for Lecavalier is a worthwhile investment.

*Last one: Tyler Seguin. A couple of different sources said Boston is targeting a top 10 pick with him. 

Lots more to come on Sunday, no doubt. Enjoy the Rumour Orgasmatron.

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