Could the Sharks and Blue Jackets do a deal? Are the Devils still interested in Brendan Shanahan? Read on for the details on these stories and more.

COLUMBUS DISPATCH: Bob Hunter reports the San Jose Sharks could emerge as a trade partner for the Blue Jackets, who're in the market for a puck-moving defenseman. Hunter points out the Sharks have about $1.7 million remaining in cap space and need to sign four players, including a backup goalie and depth forwards, the latter of which the Jackets have plenty to spare. Hunter suggests a Sharks blueliner like Christian Ehrhoff, who earns $3.1 million, would fill the Jackets needs while moving him would free up cap space for the Sharks. Hunter also suggests the Edmonton Oilers might be a good trade partner or perhaps the Toronto Maple Leafs, whose prime trade bait is Tomas Kaberle.

MERCURYNEWS.COM: David Pollak reports a reliable source claims former Nashville Predators center Scott Nichol could become the Sharks fourth-line center.

SPECTOR'S NOTE: Hat tip to GJ Berg and "Rabid Sharks Fan".  The Sharks could be forced to move a blueliner -other than Dan Boyle, Rob Blake or Marc-Eduoard Vlasic- to free up space to address their other needs. It remains to be seen if the Jackets emerge as a trade partner but Hunter certainly makes a good case.

NJ.COM: Rich Chere reports Devils GM Lou Lamoriello won't announce a new head coach prior to next week, and won't be re-signing forward Travis Zajac before the weekend, although negotiations will continue in hopes of re-signing him prior to his arbitration hearing. Chere also reports the Devils need to address depth at center which Lamoriello hinted might be filled via trade rather than free agency. One player who could be re-signed is veteran winger and unrestricted free agent Brendan Shanahan, as Lamoriello admits he's spoken with the Shanahan camp and will continue to do so.

The team also announced yesterday the signing of former NY Islanders goaltender Yann Danis to a one-year contract.

SPECTOR'S NOTE: Given the heavy workload usually seen by Martin Brodeur Danis probably won't see much playing time next season. Signing Shanahan could depend on how Lamoriello addresses his other roster needs.