NHL: July 19, 2006

The conflict with Neil Smith involved the lack of a traditional general manager's role, Islanders owner Charles Wang told reporters yesterday. He was referring to his unconventional view that his team's front office would be run by committee. That was a philosophy that Smith ultimately could not work under. -- New York Times

Adding more intrigue to the day, Pat LaFontaine , a popular former Islander, resigned as senior adviser to Charles Wang , according to an official with another NHL team. Neil Smith apparently had trouble working with LaFontaine . -- New York Times

Red Wings assistant GM Jim Nill said the team continues to talk to the agent for goaltender Ed Belfour but is also keeping its trade options open. Belfour is apparently willing to accept a one-year deal for a low base salary (likely around $500,000) but wants more lucrative bonuses written into the contract. -- Mlive.com

Despite recently informing a Gophers hockey coaching staff member that he intended to return for his sophomore season, Phil Kessel now is eager to sign with the Boston Bruins , insiders say. -- St. Paul Pioneer Press

Mikko Koivu , a center entering his second season, gives the Wild 22 players for 2006-07, with NHL contracts counting $41.8 million against the salary cap. Barring trades, in-house prospects will battle for the last roster spot when training camp opens Sept. 14. -- St. Paul Pioneer Press

The Roberto Luongo deal brought the Panthers a new goaltender in Alex Auld , a lanky 25-year-old who doesn't seem fazed by his new responsibilities. Auld is expected to come in and start immediately. -- Miami Herald

Sitting at the end of the Sparta Praha bench, backing up a 41-year-old Czech Republic graybeard, is not what the Blues envisioned for goaltender Marek Schwarz when they made him a first-round selection in the 2004 NHL draft. The question now about Schwarz, who is in St. Louis this week attending the Blues' prospect camp, is how much last season stunted his development. -- St. Louis Post-Dispatch

The Predators now have only one player from their original expansion draft as a result of right wing Scott Walker being traded Tuesday to Carolina. Walker is the Predators' all-time leader in goals (96), points (247) and penalty minutes (465). Goalie Tomas Vokoun now is the only current player who was a part of the Predators expansion draft. -- The Tennessean