Updates on Michael Nylander, Chris Chelios, Sergei Kostitsyn and Ryan Kesler, plus the latest Lightning rumors.

WASHINGTON POST: Tarik El-Bashir yesterday afternoon reported Capitals GM George McPhee confirmed the reason Michael Nylander agreed to a two-week conditioning stint in the AHL is a few Russian teams remain interested in him but want to see him in action before agreeing to take him on loan. McPhee also said he hasn't given up on possibly trading Nylander to another NHL team.

SPECTOR'S NOTE: The odds of McPhee loaning Nylander to a Russian team are better than those shipping the center to another NHL team.

NEW YORK POST: Larry Brooks reports Rangers GM Glen Sather attempted to sign former NHL veteran defenseman Chris Chelios to an AHL contract but Chelios opted instead to sign with the Chicago Wolves in order to stay close to his family. Brooks suggests the Rangers as well as several other clubs are likely to keep an eye on Chelios, who said he might be interested in a future offer from the Blueshirts.

SPECTOR'S NOTE: Given the lengthy NHL season and how injuries can impact teams it wouldn't be surprising if Chelios makes his NHL return at some point this season.

RDS.CA: reports disgruntled Canadiens forward Sergei Kostitsyn apparently won't be staying with the Habs minor league affiliate for long as sources claim Kostitsyn was assured he'll either be traded or recalled in the coming weeks.

SPECTOR'S NOTE: Round and round this saga goes. Thus far it doesn't appear to be having a negative impact upon the Canadiens roster although older brother Andrei's play hasn't been up to standard thus far.

VANCOUVER PROVINCE: Ben Kuzma reports Ryan Kesler's ice time could become a factor in his agent's contract extension talks with the Canucks, suggesting a possible starting comparison could be Philadelphia's Scott Hartnell, who earns $4.2 million per season. Kuzma suggests it could take weeks or months until a deal is worked out.

SPECTOR'S NOTE: Kesler has in my opinion become very bit as valuable to the Canucks as the Sedins and Roberto Luongo. He's rapidly become one of the best two-way forwards in the game and I wouldn't be surprised if he ends up signing for between $4-$4.5 million per season.

TAMPABAY.COM: Damian Cristodero reports when Matt Smaby returns from injury the Lightning will once again have nine healthy defensemen under NHL contract. It's no secret the Lightning are shopping a blueliner, "most likely Lukas Krajicek. "

SPECTOR'S NOTE: Hat tip to GJ Berg. Krajicek might be on the block but thus far it appears there aren't many takers.