Sammi’s Daily Mix: Former Capitals Reunite With Coyotes, Kane Update

We’re officially one week into NHL free agency, and there are Braden Holtby days left until the Washington Capitals’ season opener. Meanwhile, there are several headlines and rumblings to keep track of across the league.

So, as I enjoy this early morning Coca-Cola, let’s go through the latest news and notes.

Capitals Links

• There’s a vacancy on the Capitals blue line following Brenden Dillon’s trade to Winnipeg. Harrison Brown takes a look at who will fill his skates in Washington. (NoVa Caps)
• From Holtby to Christian Djoos, here’s what all the current and former Capitals are up to in free agency. (Washington Hockey Now)

NHL Links

• The Evander Kane situation continues to grow tenser, as reports indicate that “several” San Jose Sharks teammates don’t want him back on the roster. Sheng Peng provides the latest on Kane and what lies ahead of No. 9. (San Jose Hockey Now)
• Seattle appears set for its inaugural season, but is the roster the one the Kraken envisioned and more importantly, one that can make them a contender? James O’Brien recaps their offseason and decisions and wonders if missed opportunities will impact them going forward. (Pro Hockey Talk)

Sammi’s Top Shelf Takes

• The Arizona Coyotes inked Travis Boyd to a one-year, one-way deal on Tuesday. He joins Liam O’Brien and of course, Jay Beagle, in the Desert (we’re getting major nostalgia here). Regardless, the Yotes have acquired quite a few strong forward options — and class acts to boot. I also think Boyd has a major chance to go for a permanent roster spot here.
• John Tortorella is joining ESPN as an analyst following a long and at times, controversial, NHL coaching career. It’ll be interesting to see how he does as a member of the media after being on the other side of it — and not enjoying it too much.