Fantucchio’s Focus: Wahlstrom and Skarek Are Back; Devils Have Unfinished Business

Good morning; my name is Andrew Fantucchio. It is Wednesday, July 19, and here’s what I’m focused on around the NHL today.

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Wahlstrom and Skarek Back With Islanders:

Over the past two days, Oliver Wahlstrom and Jakub Skarek accepted their qualifying offers as restricted free agents and are returning to the New York Islanders.

Prior to the announcement of  Wahlstrom’s return on Monday, I wrote about how the uncertainty of his future and his role with the Islanders next season.

Oliver Wahlstrom’s Role and Future with Islanders is Unclear

Devils Not Done:

New Jersey Devils GM Tom Fitzgerald has had an active offseason, but there are three questions that are yet to be answered.

3 Remaining Questions for the New Jersey Devils this Summer

I will be writing an Islanders Mailbag story later this week. Leave your questions in the comments below. 

Graves Gives Pens a New Element:

The Pittsburgh Penguins have made many additions this summer, including defenseman Ryan Graves. At 6-foot-5, 220 pounds, the defenseman brings an element the Pens have rarely had.

Penguins Go Big, Ryan Graves Knows Unspoken Tough Role

Colorado Counting on Colton:

The Colorado Avalanche swung a deal for Ross Colton and quickly signed him to a multi-year extension. Evan Rawal of Colorado Hockey Now breaks down why the Avs are so high on their newest forward.

ANALYSIS: Why The Avalanche Are Betting Big On Ross Colton

More From National Hockey Now:

Boston: With more restricted free agents still left unsigned, the Bruins are going to need to clear some cap space.

Florida: Ryan Lomberg is ready for next season after battling through injuries during the Panthers’ run to the Stanley Cup Final.

Calgary: Flames announce that former goalie Miikka Kipursoff will have his No. 34 retired.