On the Beat: Jaroslav Halak gets the start, concern over Ilya Kovalchuk and Stephane Yelle waived

What team beat writers are saying this Monday afternoon:

• Francois Beauchemin admits the Ducks and his agent never had any talks before he left for Toronto.  The Ducks were forthright with their cap issues and need for offense.
• Ilya Kovalchuk is not at practice today for the Thrashers today.  There is concern the injury is fairly serious.
• Stephane Yelle has been placed on waivers by Carolina.  Aside from face-offs, Yelle doesn’t provide much anymore.
• Ray Ferraro chimes in on Shawn Horcoff’s role on the Oilers.  I’d agree with Ferraro’s assessment.
• Jaroslav Halak gets the start tonight for Montreal.  No reason not to give him the start.

• Alexander Semin is back at Capitals practice and back on the top line.  Obviously he was greatly missed.  If only he could stay healthy for an entire season…