On The Bubble

In Bruins news:

• No, they will not simply be singing kumbaya around the campfire at Ristuccia this week. It has been a long time coming, but if any of the attendees make a good case, open positions on the Bruins’ roster are up for grabs. Providence Journal
• Kirk Luedeke sat down with some chums of ours and spoke about where the Bruins sit at this point. He defends Torey Krug’s contract and Trent Frederic’s selection, explains why David Backes was taken over keeping Loui Eriksson as well as the though behind the Anton Khudobin signing, and why Ryan Spooner remains a perennial trade chip. (Audio, 1:20:13) Bearly On Topic
• As you wave goodbye to Chris Kelly’s contract, take a moment to understand what the Bruins may actually be losing to Ottawa. Hockeybuzz
• For the best coverage of Bruins Development camp, start here with assessments of the attendees in two comprehensive parts (with video) Part 1 , Part 2 and then continuing on to an off-season chat with Boston University graduate Matt Grzelcyk, who would like to apply what he learned at Boston University to help the Bruins transition from defense to offense. Bonus: Grzelcyk’s personal observations on Charlie McAvoy and the elusive Jimmy Vesey. Scouting Post
• Landon Ferraro will play in more temperate climes this upcoming season. The Hockey News
• Tuukka Rask and Dennis Seidenberg were seen out and about last Thursday evening. The Boston Globe

Elsewhere around the rink:

• Bait and switch? The AHL’s rule change to curtail fighting may disappoint heavily courted new fans when the NHL inevitably follows suit. The Boston Globe
• There are three other factors that may hinder the success of the new Las Vegas franchise. Sports Illustrated
• Also, they’ll need a General Manager. Here are a handful of candidates, including Pierre McGuire. Last Word On Sports
• Congratulations to Florida has both the teams to beat in this year’s Atlantic Division. Bonus: Players involved in buyout and arbitration scenarios and one more parting kick in the seat to Taylor Hall. The Boston Globe
• Size matters, and apparently not just in acquiring the best players. Even qualified officiating candidates are being snubbed for diminutive stature. Hockeybuzz
• Taking up the pen affects a writer’s personal fandom- and even allows the enjoyment of pursuing the human side of hockey stories. Habs Eyes On The Prize
• Teams should not be pumping salary and term into character players. Locker Room Hero
• Speaking of which... remember Alex Burrows? He’s still around. The Province
• Goodbye, Newfoundland! The IceCaps will be packing their bags for Laval, Quebec. CBC