Welcome to the PHT Morning Skate, a collection of links from around the hockey world. Have a link you want to submit? Email us at phtblog@nbcsports.com.
• Top 2019 NHL Draft prospect has ‘Connor McDavid-like qualities’ (Sportsnet)
• Tavares’s decision could have snowball effect on NHL. (Newsday)
• He is, he is, he is: Jack Johnson expected to sign with the Pittsburgh Penguins come Sunday. (NHL.com)
• Don’t get too excited, Sens fans: Team and NHL deny report suggesting that Sens owner is trying to sell team. (Ottawa Citizen)
• Hockey dream still alive for paralyzed Humboldt Bronco. (The Canadian Press)
• Hayley Wickenheiser says Canada behind U.S. in women’s hockey development. (Toronto Star)
• Analyze This: Slim pickings for Canadiens at NHL free agent buffet. (Montreal Gazette)
• Jets coach mindful of expectations for next season entering free agency. Maurice wants Winnipeg to be mentally ready, hopes to keep roster intact. (NHL.com)
• Logan Couture, Sharks reportedly agree on eight-year extension. (CBS Sports)
• Jason Botchford says Canucks could target capable free-agent talent minus marquee price tag. (The Province)
• Meanwhile, here’s five potential free agents the Flames could target. (Calgary Sun)
• Mario Lemieux’s son honing his game with the Penguins. (NHL.com)
Scott Billeck is a writer for Pro Hockey Talk on NBC Sports. Drop him a line at phtblog@nbcsports.com or follow him on Twitter @scottbilleck