The Rangers have waived controversial winger Sean Avery for the second time this season. Avery, 31, who was waived in October during the preseason, has been a scratch for nine straight games. He has three goals in 15 games this season, but averaged only 7 minutes, 1 second in ice time before his most recent exile. Avery is expected to clear waivers, as he did the first time.

The injury-riddled Panthers are expected to sign center John Madden to a one-year deal as early as Thursday, according to a source. Madden, 38, played last season with the Wild and the year before was part of Chicago's Stanley Cup-winning team. He also won two Stanley Cups with the Devils.

There have been trade rumors involving Devils star Zach Parise, but Darren Dreger of TSN writes that re-signing him is a priority. "The sense is the New Jersey Devils' priority is to re-sign Parise. Only when that process has been exhausted will Lou Lamoriello consider the ample trade interest," he writes. "If Zach Parise were to become available, the lineup of GM's willing to make a deal would be long. Among the most interested, I would think Detroit and Pittsburgh would be as aggressive as any team to make something happen. I'm skeptical it gets to that point."

The Red Wings may make a move for a veteran forward as the season progresses and one guy they may target is Carolina's Tuomo Ruutu. Ruutu has been rumored to be on the block for the past few weeks and he's slated to hit unrestricted free agency at season's end so he'd be a rental player.

The Bruins might be on the verge of signing Chris Kelly to a new deal. After locking up David Krejci last week, Kelly may now be Boston's most important impending free agent outside of Tuukka Rask. He is making $2.125 million this season, but the 31-year-old should get a significant raise.