PIERRE MCGUIRE'S In the Crease

Avalanche defenseman Kyle Quincey has to be the NHL's most improved player. Acquired from the Kings in the deal that sent Ryan Smyth to L.A. in July, Quincey, 24, is logging 25:53 of ice time a game, making terrific decisions with the puck and helping the young, aggressive Avs look comfortable in all situations .... Florida G.M. Randy Sexton has made it clear that he's open for business—and that he's not afraid to move a big name. On the block is goalie Tomas Vokoun, who could help any number of teams. Vokoun (below) may be expendable because the Panthers own the rights to 19-year-old Jacob Markstrom of Sweden, one of the world's top goalies outside the NHL. The 6'3" Markstrom was drafted 31st in 2008 and stars for Brynas in the Swedish Elite League.

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ALAN DIAZ/AP (VOKOUN)