Brian Burke rumors. Update.

Not a rumor, but a fact…


A team spokesperson says the reason Burke lets Senior VP of hockey ops Bob Murray handle all discussions with the Toronto Maple Leafs is to avoid any evidence of impropriety. The question stemmed from speculation that Burke would leave the Ducks to be the Maple Leafs’ general manager at the end of this season — and if Burke would make any deals between his current team and potential future club to benefit the Leafs at the Ducks’ expense.

While the speculation is public knowledge, that’s quite an acknowledgment on Burke’s part of the reality (or perhaps the surreality) of the situation. It’s not unprecedented; Burke does not personally negotiate with the Edmonton Oilers (click here and here for a refresher).

Ken Klee clears waivers. Update.

Apparently none of the other 29 NHL teams wanted to pick up the 37-year-old defenseman at $1.25 million, a contract which expires at season’s end.

Even if he is sent to the minors, Klee is on a one-way deal, which means that salary will count against the Ducks’ cap. The Ducks do not play again this week until Friday in Ottawa.

UPDATE (3:30 p.m.): Klee is remaining in Anaheim during the road trip and isn’t planning on accompanying the team to Ottawa. That could change, but for now he’s waiting for the Ducks to make an executive decision on his future.

LeNeveu going back to Iowa.

David LeNeveu was removed from the Ducks’ opening-day roster this afternoon, a day after he was added. No word yet on if he actually traveled out to San Jose or not, or why he — notably a goalie, and not a skater – was added in the first place.


Update:
LeNeveu practiced with the Ducks on Wednesday, then went straight back to Des Moines. There’s no injury situation with Giguere or Hiller, and the Ducks will carry 22 (one under the maximum) on their roster for now.