We spent the morning over at the Forum checking out the Lightning.  Had a conversation with GM Jay Feaster.  Although Jay didn't hint about anything imminent in the next few days, I got the vibe something is coming fast. 

Jay maintains the Big Three, LeCavalier, St. Louis and Richards are not yet in play because he has not formally talked with present ownership or Oren Koules's group about a possible trade involving one of the Big Three for a #1 goaltender.  I know Jay went public with that being a #1 priority in the off-season, but it could come sooner.  Where there's rumors, there's usually something behind it in the NHL.   Goalie's like Ray Emery and even Habby are being tossed around, as was Marty Turco.  The Lightning are in the market for a #1 goalie, and those names seem to be more than available for discussion. 

There are hurdles here, namely no-trade clauses St. Louis and Richards reportedly have in their contracts. They would have to okay the trade.  Furthermore, trading LeCavalier would be out of the question.  So the deal may extend to Defenseman Dan Boyle.  Boyle is an unrestricted free-agent at the end of the season.  How sweet it would be to get a #1 goalie before the trade deadline for say Boyle, and then resign Boyle in the off-season.

For a trade of this magnitude to come to pass, it will happen very soon, or not at all.  I would think within a week, 10 days max. 

Tom Korun