A Day in the NHL: Research and Development Camp; Quotes Coming Left and Right

-The second day of the NHL’s Research and Development Camp goes today. Yesterday was a bit of a shocker as, along with the media, there was a large contingency of NHL General Managers at the camp along with scouts. Understandably the scouts were there for an extra look at the 2012 Draft Class. While none of the 27 rule changes may come about immediately, the most likely alterations could be a verification line (A second “goal line” that is placed a puck-width behind the original. If the puck touches this line, it means that it has crossed the goal line entirely) or even a shallower goal (more room for wraparounds). The elimination of the trapezoid is even being considered.

-If you’re wondering about rookies who were turning heads yesterday, Sarnia Sting (OHL) forward Nail Yakupov would be one of the most-talked about draft eligibles. Yakupov shredded the OHL in his rookie year last year and, barring injury or unforeseen circumstance, is a likely top-three selection this year.

-Matt Bradley is a Florida Panther now, which means that if he lets fly on former teammates and coaches, he won’t have to answer to anyone until the Panthers play his former team, the Washington Capitals. Although he tried to soften the blows on Bruce Boudreau by saying he loved his former coach, he made no secret that he was disappointed in how often Boudreau played and relied on the Capitals star players despite their lack of production. Bradley went on to say it was an NHL-wide problem as well. That wasn’t nearly as bad as what he said about Alexander Semin, although based on what we’ve seen out of Semin, Bradley’s accusations seem bang-on.

"“I don’t mind saying Alexander Semin’s name because he’s one guy who has so much talent, he could easily be the best player in the league, and for whatever reason just doesn’t care. When you’ve got a guy like that you need him to be your best player, or one of them, and when he doesn’t show up you almost get the sense that he wants to be back in Russia. That’s tough to win when you’ve got a guy like that who’s supposed to be your best player not being your best player. Or one of them.”-TSN.ca/TEAM 1200 – Ottawa"

-Reports yesterday indicated that Drew Doughty and the Los Angeles Kings haven’t discussed the restricted free agent’s contract since July.

"“Both sides, we’re discussing things, and I’m sure something is going to get done soon. I don’t have a time frame or anything like that. But I still want to be a King and I can’t wait to get something done so it’s over with.” – ProSportsDaily"

-Jonas Gustavsson is healthy and ready to compete for the Toronto Maple Leafs. While the popular thought is that Gustavsson will find himself riding shotgun to James Reimer this year, Gustavsson is coming in to the season healthy and ready to compete. He also feels that the two of them can make each other better.

-Following the death of Rick Rypien, Gary Bettman is expecting to meet with the NHL Players’ Association at some point to review the substance abuse program and ensure the league is doing enough. Many feel that there needs to be an outlet for players who are suffering from depression to discuss it, as locker rooms aren’t a comfortable place to discuss it.

You can follow Bryan on Twitter at BryanThiel_88.