Stano’s Daily: Grundstrom to World Championships & Marco Sturm’s Return

I know a few Ontario Reign fans who won't be excited about this news, but, according to German outlet EISHockeyNews head coach Marco Sturm is set to extend his contract with the Reign soon.

It's important to note that this is just a quick interview with Sturm where he says the organization wants to re-sign him. So, there's nothing definitive yet. But it appears we'll get a few more seasons of Sturm down in Ontario.

The Reign saw a hefty regression under Sturm last season and he didn't endear himself to fans during his time with the Kings. Heading a power play that was painful to watch. And was immediately improved after Sturm moved to Ontario. 

The Kings have given Sturm a lot of opportunities in the organization and this could be another example of that. One area I know the Kings are happy with Sturm is his ability to instill a lot of Todd McLellan's structure into Ontario. 

It makes it easier for young players to quickly jump into the Kings' lineup if they're already used to the system. 

The organization had plenty of reason to move on from Sturm after his struggles as the Kings' assistant coach and a tough season in Ontario. But they see something in Sturm they like and it sounds like they're going to stick with him.

Grundstrom to Worlds:

Team Sweden released their roster for the upcoming World Championships on Tuesday and there was a familiar name on the roster for Kings fans.

Forward Carl Grundstrom is the lone representative for the Kings on Sweden. A little surprising considering the army of Swedes in the Kings' organization. 

I would assume players like Adrian Kempe and Viktor Arvidsson didn't make themselves available. But, after strong AHL seasons, I'm a little surprised none of Lias Anderson, Tobias Bjornfot or Jacob Moverare made the team.

Regardless, this will be a good opportunity for Grundstrom, who should have an important role on this team as one of just six NHL forwards. 

Around the NHL & National Hockey Now:

The Toronto Maple Leafs face elimination tonight against the Florida Panthers. Despite finally making it past the third round, a second-round sweep might be the catalyst for some house cleaning in Toronto.

We might finally see a big shake-up after another disappointing end from this group.

The Carolina Hurricanes are rolling right now. Up 3-1 in the series, they've outscored the New Jersey Devils 17-3 in their three wins. 

They were one of the favorites out of the East heading into the playoffs and are delivering. Even without star forward Andre Svechnikov.

BostonHockeyNow: Could Jim Montgomery be on the hot seat after a record-breaking season?

MontrealHockeyNow: Speaking of World Championships, Lane Hutson showed off his silky mitts in Team USA's exhibition game.

ColoradoHockeyNow: Gabe Landeskog is going to miss all of next season as he undergoes cartilage transplant surgery in his knee.