Friday morning update on Hampus Lindholm and Claude Giroux; is today the day?

On the Lindhom front, Friedman revealed on Friday that the final push from Anaheim has resulted in nothing in terms of making a deal. The Ducks are now pressing ahead with trading the 6-foot-4 two-way defenseman before Monday's deadline.

The asking price on Lindholm is sky-high according to Thursday's report. The Ducks are looking for a 1st round pick, a top prospect and an additional piece - a lofty price to pay for a rental.

The Leafs were believed to be the frontrunner on Lindholm right up until the asking price was announced. Now, it appears unlikely, as GM Kyle Dubas has stated on a number of occasions that he does not want to move top prospects or 1st round picks for rental players.

On the Claude Giroux front, late Thursday night, it appeared as though Giroux to the Florida Panthers was all but done. However, a late push by the Colorado Avalanche has prevented a deal from getting done.

This really does appear to be a two-team race as of this moment. Friedman's gut is telling him that Giroux to Florida will still happen, but we'll have to wait and see. Avs GM Joe Sakic is no pushover.