The latest on the Maple Leafs, Canucks and Oilers, plus an update on the status of former Canadiens Patrice Brisebois and Francis Bouillon.

SUN MEDIA: Lance Hornby reports Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Tomas Kaberle expressed relief when told GM Brian Burke still expects Kaberle to be a Leafs to start the season. His no-trade clause goes back into effecxt on August 15th.

SPECTOR'S NOTE: Barring a last-minute eye-popping offer from a rival team expect Kaberle to suit up for the Leafs this coming season.

VANCOUVER PROVINCE: Mike Halford and Jason Brough report Canucks GM Mike Gillis is in the market for blueline depth, perhaps a puck-moving defenseman, but there isn't much available in the UFA market and trade options appear limited.

SPECTOR'S NOTE: One possibility could be Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Anton Babchuk, who had 16 goals and 33 points with a plus-minus of +13 last season.

EDMONTON JOURNAL: Jim Matheson recently reported a lack of available salary cap space gives Oilers management little wiggle room to bolster their depth at center. The club currently has a shade more than $55 million committed to next season and still have Ladislav Smid and Gilbert Brule to re-sign. Smid is close to signing a two-year deal.

SPECTOR'S NOTE: Barring a trade there really isn't much the Oilers can do to bolster their depth via free agency.

SPECTOR'S NOTE: Brisebois' age and decline in his skills are the reason he's received no offers. Bouillon is younger and despite his size works hard every shift and would make an affordable addition for any team seeking a fifth or sixth defenseman.

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