The NHL's salary cap expected to rise, Can Pens be active again in free agency?
by Hooks Orpik on Dec 6, 2010 11:39 AM EST
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PrintFor those that like to look too far to the future (I admit I'm one of those people), it may be interesting to hear that the salary cap could rise by about $3 million dollars next season, to an upper limit of about $62.4 million, according to the Globe and Mail.
How does this fit into the Pens outlook? Let's take a quick and dirty look, if you want to, behind the jump.
Currently the Pens have about $51.1 million on contracts next season. Here's how it would look, in terms of a depth chart:
Kunitz-Crosby-???
???-Malkin-???
Cooke-Staal-???
???-???-???
Martin/Michalek
Orpik/Letang
Goligoski/Lovejoy
Fleury and Johnson
Notable unrestricted free agents: Pascal Dupuis, Max Talbot, Mike Rupp, Eric Godard, Craig Adams, Arron Asham, Deryk Engelland
(Tyler Kennedy and Mark Letestu are set to become restricted free agents)
If young players like Eric Tangradi and/or Dustin Jeffrey can make the jump, that would make for some relatively cheap additions to the lineup. Other than the top six forwards, GM Ray Shero will have to do a lot of re-stocking of his pluggers, as most of them will either need new contracts or suitable replacements. Those players tend to be relatively plentiful and cheap to boot-- check out Asham signing for peanuts late in the summer, or guys like Adams who occasionally pop up on the waiver wire from time to time.
Regarding the top six forwards, could this be a time to add a $3 or $4 million dollar winger to play with Evgeni Malkin? Given that the Pens will have about $11 million to work with, it seems that they could have the cap space to make that a reality. And since all the important core players are signed (at least) through 2013, adding a high ticket guy from the free agent route would not adversely affect the Pens ability to keep their own young players.
Next summer's potential crop of UFA forwards isn't the deepest though. Alex Semin is way out of range, he'll get a megabucks deal somewhere. Simon Gagne could hit the market, but he may command too much to fit in the Pens structure. Other options could include Matt Moulson, Tomas Fleischmann, Jussi Jokinen or Alex Tanguay -- all have some warts, but any would represent a skill upgrade over current top wingers on the team. I was going to make a joke about Alexei Ponikarovsky being on the market too, but that's really not funny.
It's still way early to really consider next year's roster, and there's this little thing called the regular season going on, so any exercise in getting too deep into what may or may not happen probably is useless. However I found it interesting to take a peek at this, on the heel's that the cap might go up a little more than earlier anticipated.
Looking at the Pens contract situation it's clear that they have a lot of money tied up, but for the most part it's going to the right people and there aren't too many holes to fill, especially defensively. Shero's done an excellent job of locking the core down, and if the salary cap does indeed rise, the Pens will probably get the chance to add some better weapons to that core.
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I’d love a guy like Matt Moulson. But if the Islander’s were smart they’d lock him up long term
Follow me on Twitter @marcy8771
http://puckdroppings.com/marcyonhockey/
Smart management? From the Islanders? Why would Snow an co. start that?
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
by Hooks Orpik on Dec 6, 2010 12:06 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Hey, he does a good job at the draft, apparently.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most unpredictable team in the NHL and where we defend Mike Green, Alex Ovechkin, and Alexander Semin until the bitter end. That is to say, when someone tries to call BS on the Corsi numbers.
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
by red army line on Dec 6, 2010 12:42 PM EST up reply actions
yeah
drafting that Tavares guy was pure genious
Hey, if you’re gonna call us birds you might as well call us chickens.
Didn’t we originally draft Mat Moulson – or scout him or something – or am I thinking Blake Comeau?
Get in the fast lane Grandma, the bingo game's ready to roll!
by PensForTheWin on Dec 6, 2010 11:04 PM EST up reply actions
Nope…it was Moulson—unfortunately.
My Thoughts on the Pens & Twitter
"A player's game is a composition. Sometimes it's a line, sometimes a paragraph. Right now, Crosby's game is a novel." -Scott Burnside
by AllieLXXXVII on Dec 7, 2010 12:10 AM EST up reply actions
I’m not sure what you’re talking about exactly.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most unpredictable team in the NHL and where we defend Mike Green, Alex Ovechkin, and Alexander Semin until the bitter end. That is to say, when someone tries to call BS on the Corsi numbers.
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
by red army line on Dec 7, 2010 9:10 AM EST up reply actions
Awesome job
again Hooks. Nothing better than being a Pens fan is there? Now that college football is done and my head isn’t completely spinning around whoever Miami Hurricanes will hire as their next coach I am officially BACK.
Thank God! I’ve been thinking how lucky we’ve been for the Pens to be playing so well without Staal and CGNC. ;-)
.
Follow me on twitter, Picasa or at Pens Through My Lens.
by PensAreYourDaddy on Dec 6, 2010 1:31 PM EST up reply actions
Interesting
I wouldn’t put Staal as the third line center just yet.
In all likelyhood, Staal will be paired with Malkin upon Staals return. Evident by Malkins ineffectiveness to pull the entire weight of the second line. And the Third line playing relatively well. I would even venture so far as Staal and Cooke with Malkin, leaving the third line wide open.
Rupp is finding a pretty good home on the Pens, and would assume, he, Talbot and Adams will be back in black and gold, all for around 3.5 Mil total (Each getting a slight raise).
I also think Lovejoy will be paired with a UFA and a Pick or two to bring in another big(ish) name player. Maybe Parise if the Cap actually increases, since we all know NJD HAVE to drop salary.
Tangradi and/or another WBS makes the jump and then another cheap UFA to fill out the third/fourth line.
Kunitz – Sid – Parise (Pending trade)
Malkin – Staal – Cooke
Rupp – Dustin – Tangradi
Talbot – Adams – Random
And Defense is the same as it is now.
Tang – Orpik
Martin – Michalek
Engelland – Goligoski
That should put you at around 60 Mil.
NO Parise talk
Lou would rather jump into a wood chipper than trade him to the Penguins.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
There is ZERO chance of obtaining Parise unless your willing to give up staal, tangradi, and, a 3rd rd pick….and tangradi wont have a bottom 6 role when he makes the full time jump to the NHL
by Geno McFleury on Dec 6, 2010 12:14 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
There is ZERO chance of obtaining Parise
Could have ended it here, GM.
Don’t know how some fans have gotten the dream in their head’s that it’s a possibility. The Devils wouldn’t even be in THAT much trouble — capgeek says they have $50 million for 16 players next season, which means they’d have about $12 million in space to sign Parise, a restricted free agent.
Parise’s going no where.
But even if he wasn’t, Pittsburgh is probably the #1 (or #2 behind Rangers) team that they would never let it happen. The Devils and Pens do not make trades with each other.
Just look at last year, the Pens wouldn’t trade Skoula to the Devils. You think NJ would trade a player like Parise to Pittsburgh? No way in hell.
It’s nice to dream, but outside of your xbox/playstation, it’s not going to happen.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
What’s even more asinine is that some fans think the pens can get Parise without giving up a core player. But ya division teams don’t trade to often other than minor trades, for example, pens 3rd rd pick for hamhuis negotiation rights from philthy
by Geno McFleury on Dec 6, 2010 12:25 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Philly and Pittsburgh trade a lot for rivals.
But Lamariello doesn’t — I believe in NHL history the Devils and Rangers have never, ever made a trade with each other.
I’m not sure, but I can’t remember him dealing with Pittsburgh. Surely not for his franchise player.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
Just throwing it out there. People didn’t think NJD would trade for Kovalchuk, nor that he would resign there.
Lou needs to do SOMETHING to that team… Stranger things have happened.
Trading his franchise player (for 0 NHL players according to your outlook) would be SOMETHING….But not a very smart thing.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
Also, who thought Atlanta would trade Hossa and Dupuis for Colby Armstrong, Erik Christensen, Angelo Esposito, and a first round pick?
Im just saying, trades happen, and I wouldn’t be surprised that the pens pull another big trade if the Cap actually increases; they have a LOT of prospects and Shero has shown he is willing to pull the trigger on some big deals.
That doesn’t add up. Totally different situation — Hossa was impending UFA on a terrible team. Parise is the center of the NJ franchise (for skaters) for a team that’s made the playoffs every year for 16 years.
That aside, Atlanta received high value when the deal was made.
-Armstrong was a 25 yr old gritty winger capable of scoring 20 goals
-Christensen was an NHL caliber player with a ton of skill
-Esposito was a 1st round pick the year before and a highly touted prospect
-Another first round pick held some value too
Obviously those pieces never worked out quite right, but there was value.
But, regardless, the NJ/Parise situation — young franchise player, RFA and ATL/Hossa deal couldn’t be less alike.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
Yeah, big trades happen and Shero is good at making them happen.
But the only way I’d see NJ trading a guy like Parise to the Pens would be if NJ was out of the playoff picture and an unrestricted free agent during the summer, and the Pens were willing to part with something good in return (they might be … for a Cup), and Lou didn’t think a contract extension was in the making for Parise with the Devils.
Crosby.
Yes, strange things do happen.
However, this won’t happen because there’s no way that NJ trades Parise to us (in division). Parise is too much of an impact player for Lou to even consider having him face his team 6 times a season.
End of discussion.
My Thoughts on the Pens & Twitter
"A player's game is a composition. Sometimes it's a line, sometimes a paragraph. Right now, Crosby's game is a novel." -Scott Burnside
NJD have expendables besides Parise, he is their franchise player not Kovy. Like Hooks said their cap issues may look bad right now but in reality its not anything too difficult to resolve with minimal damage to the core. What NJD should worry about is not resigning Parise but drafting a potential NHL starting goalie.
by Geno McFleury on Dec 6, 2010 12:33 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
And lets not forget Parise is a RFA so if anything he will go to arbitration and sign the 1 year deal or NJD matches an offer sheet or trade him but that’s very unlikely. Doesn’t help either side that he is in the press box watching this mess
by Geno McFleury on Dec 6, 2010 12:42 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
It’s nice to dream, but outside of your xbox/playstation, it’s not going to happen.
+1
Get in the fast lane Grandma, the bingo game's ready to roll!
by PensForTheWin on Dec 6, 2010 11:06 PM EST up reply actions
Free Malkin?
I wouldn’t put Staal as the third line center just yet.
In all likelyhood, Staal will be paired with Malkin upon Staals return. Evident by Malkins ineffectiveness to pull the entire weight of the second line. And the Third line playing relatively well. I would even venture so far as Staal and Cooke with Malkin, leaving the third line wide open.
If the Pens can’t provide Malkin with quality wingers, they may be better off trading him to 1) free cap space, 2) acquire forward talent, 3) to acquire top draft picks, etc.
I love Malkin, but neither he nor the Pens are gaining much from the current situation. Hopefully, the Pens can acquire or promote from within wingers who will finish plays made by Crosby and Malkin. Cooke and Talbot, who have important roles to play on this team, make Kunitz and Dupuis look like offensive geniuses.
s.zielinski
If the Pens can’t provide Malkin with quality wingers, they may be better off trading him to 1) free cap space, 2) acquire forward talent, 3) to acquire top draft picks, etc.
None of those things are very appealing, nor will it get the Pens any closer to winning the Stanley Cup again.
Look at any time a team trades a star near his peak, how do they fare? Boston has nothing to show for Thornton, Ottawa has little from Heatley, the Oilers got a lot of pieces but regressed after Gretzky. It’s simple and obvious: if you trade a star for pieces, you weaken your team overall.
There’s no reason to trade a star, unless you absolutely have to. It does not benefit the team, it makes them take a step back.
Sure get better players, but hey, look at this article — it’s about having $3 million more cap room to do just that!
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
I have to do it...
It’s simple and obvious: if you trade a star for pieces, you weaken your team overall.
I have to play devil’s advocate here and mention the situation with Kovalchuk-NJ and ATL.
One of the few scenario’s where this has occurred, though.
My Thoughts on the Pens & Twitter
"A player's game is a composition. Sometimes it's a line, sometimes a paragraph. Right now, Crosby's game is a novel." -Scott Burnside
That doesn’t compare though, as the situations are juuuust a little bit different.
Atlanta is a team that was down and out and about to lose Kovalchuk as a UFA, since he would not accept their contract extensions.
Pittsburgh is a contending team and has Malkin locked into a contract for years to come.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
Still, it is a scenario in which a team actually got better after trading their star.
I was just sayin’ to begin with anyways.
My Thoughts on the Pens & Twitter
"A player's game is a composition. Sometimes it's a line, sometimes a paragraph. Right now, Crosby's game is a novel." -Scott Burnside
A part of he reason they got better though is thanks to the other moves that their new GM made to get guys like Ladd and Buff. And the fact they got a new GM.
Trading your star because he’s an impending UFA, different than Malkin’s current situation. Doesn’t compute.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
A part of he reason they got better though is thanks to the other moves that their new GM made to get guys like Ladd and Buff.
…that happened because of the cap space trading Kovalchuk provided them with.
Trading your star because he’s an impending UFA, different than Malkin’s current situation. Doesn’t compute.
I wasn’t responding to that part of your comment; I was responding to the part about trading star pieces weakens your team overall.
And, again, I was just sayin’. I don’t think the Pens would trade Geno and I don’t think it’d be a good idea to trade Geno right now.
My Thoughts on the Pens & Twitter
"A player's game is a composition. Sometimes it's a line, sometimes a paragraph. Right now, Crosby's game is a novel." -Scott Burnside
You may be right:
Look at any time a team trades a star near his peak, how do they fare? Boston has nothing to show for Thornton, Ottawa has little from Heatley, the Oilers got a lot of pieces but regressed after Gretzky. It’s simple and obvious: if you trade a star for pieces, you weaken your team overall.
But the Pens already have a superstar center, a star center and an excellent D-corps. What the team lacks isthe kind of scoring wingers that will make having one or more superstar center efficient and effective. It is unlikely that any trade of a player like Malkin will bring back a player like Malkin. But it could bring back two or three 30 goal scorers while providing cap space for those players.
s.zielinski
The Oilers won a Cup 2 years after Gretzky left, with a core that included many guys who were in that deal.
But your point is, generally, correct.
Said it better than I said it.
My Thoughts on the Pens & Twitter
"A player's game is a composition. Sometimes it's a line, sometimes a paragraph. Right now, Crosby's game is a novel." -Scott Burnside
You seem to have forgotten about the all-important Staal-for-Spezza move that is surely coming.
Crosby.
I think the Penguins should sign Tomas Fleischmann to be Sid’s winger—10 years, $40 million.
Regarding Parise: no use discussing him. He won’t be available.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most unpredictable team in the NHL and where we defend Mike Green, Alex Ovechkin, and Alexander Semin until the bitter end. That is to say, when someone tries to call BS on the Corsi numbers.
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
Flash is a perimeter player and a non-factor in the playoffs when games get tough (but I don’t have to tell you that) but he’s still a guy who has scored 20+ goals in a season and gotten what, about 60 points?
That could add something the Pens lack, outside of Kunitz they don’t have a winger who can score that much.
I’d believe they could even snag Flash for slightly less money and term than you propose too :)
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
Take him as long as you eat up all that cap room too.
It’s so weird that when I look and see 7 roster holes (let’s say 8, for an extra player), $11 million in possible cap room, that’s not that much room to work with, but it looks like a ton when I look just at the line/pairing chart.
The Pens fan in me (I can’t believe I just wrote that) thinks that perhaps it’s not a good idea to go after a somewhat pricey winger. A couple of $2.5 million wingers, I think, offer less risk than an expensive guy who just doesn’t work out (see Rolston). That also leaves cap room and maybe yet another upgrade on the blueline in the future, if need be.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most unpredictable team in the NHL and where we defend Mike Green, Alex Ovechkin, and Alexander Semin until the bitter end. That is to say, when someone tries to call BS on the Corsi numbers.
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
by red army line on Dec 6, 2010 1:04 PM EST up reply actions
I’m sure they’ll bring back Letestu for cheap, and they can fill the 4th line/13 forward for about $2.5 – $3.0 million total.
So that roughly leaves about $9 million for three top six wingers. I think Jeffrey or Tangradi could contribute here, so maybe that helps. So yeah, maybe a couple of $2.5 million guys would be the best bet — Antti Mietenen and Andrew Brunette from Minnesota are two guys I’m keeping an eye on, for possible deadline guys too. I think either one could be a good fit, on the right contract.
The Pens fan in me (I can’t believe I just wrote that)
Don’t worry — we won’t tell.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
Andrew Brunette...
I like it as a potential deadline (or sooner) deal. Fletcher is at the helm in Minnesota, so the relationship is there and he knows our system as well as any GM in the league (which could be good or bad). Brunette is a hard worker in the corners and in front of the net with a decent set of hands. Not a good skater, but I could see him working down low with Malkin & Staal and taking some of the PP front of the net burden/abuse away from Kunitz.
I’m not too worried about our blueline right now: besides the four or five top guys we have now, we have a fair bit of depth in the prospects pool. I’m guessing a couple of those guys make it over the next few years. Then again … I could be wrong …
Also:
The Pens fan in me (I can’t believe I just wrote that)
I knew there was something I liked about you!
Crosby.
For all that gets written about “top-4” defensemen, well, PHI had a HOF 1D and another legit 1D on the second pair, and still burned out their top-4, it looked to me. CHI had that extra reliable guy (Sopel) and I think that was important in keeping Keith, Hjammer, Seabrook, and Campbell somewhat fresh (at least compared to Pronger, etc). Plus in case of injury you like that extra D man.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most unpredictable team in the NHL and where we defend Mike Green, Alex Ovechkin, and Alexander Semin until the bitter end. That is to say, when someone tries to call BS on the Corsi numbers.
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
by red army line on Dec 6, 2010 3:45 PM EST up reply actions
Definitely.
Over the next 2-3 years the core players (Crosby, Malkin, Fleury, Staal) will all be at their extreme physical peaks. The sky is the limit.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
Sidenote....
Imagine if Johannes Salmonsson actually lived up to his potential he’d be a PERFECT fit on the left side of Geno’s line. I don’t know what happened to that kid he has the offensive skills to be a top 6 forward but he kind of hit rock bottom these last few years.
I think when he left the WHL (where he didn’t really fit in on or off the ice) and went back to Europe that was about the end of the North American portion of his career.
Which is a shame. Doesn’t help that Chicago took Dave Bolland with the very next pick in the draft that year.
The Swede that got away for me is Loui Eriksson. Pens drafted Ryan Stone 32nd overall, Dallas takes Eriksson with the very next pick. Now Eriksson is a 30+ goal scorer that’s a point/game player. He would be a great fit for Crosby or Malkin.
Alas.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
Ya doesn’t help the fact that he hasn’t done much in sweden either but he seemed to be a good prospect at that time can’t really blame the pens for selecting him since he could have easily went in the 1st..that’s how the draft works you win some, you lose some
by Geno McFleury on Dec 6, 2010 2:00 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
There’s absolutely no way Salmonsson could have gone in the first round. A winger who can’t manage a point per game in juniors shouldn’t ever be expected to do well in the NHL, much less be a top 6 type. Basically, raw skill or not, he never put it together even in juniors and if drafted at all should have been a low-round pick. Hell, Tyler Kennedy, who went in the 4th round that year, had a better PPG rate.
When Salmonsson was drafted he was still in Sweden, he didn’t come over to juniors for a while. And as a 17/18 year old he made it to the SEL, the highest pro league in Sweden. That’s quite an accomplishment and spoke well of his skill/potential to be able to at least stay in a league against grown men.
Obviously knowing what we know now, it was a total bust, but he had a high pedigree and was a potential game changer as a speedy/gritty winger. I believe the only reason Salmonsson lasted to the first pick in the second round was due to knee (or shoulder?) injuries that had scared some teams away at the NHL draft.
Sometimes a boom or bust pick busts. I think it was a risk worth taking — other than Dave Bolland the entire top half of the 2nd round that year turned out to be duds all the way around, so the Pens probably would have ended up getting a turd anyways.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
He played 25 games in the SEL and scored 0g, 3a in those 25 games. I mean, yeah, as an 18 year old, but still. Yuck. I’d rather they leave the boom/bust picks until later in the draft where they don’t have as much potential to wreck a draft.
Europe is totally different, you can’t judge stats and project them over to here. For instance, Malkin only scored 12 points in 34 goals (including 3 goals!) the year before he was drafted. Obviously has no mark on North American production.
And you don’t know the situation either — I’d be willing to bet (based off games played) that Salmonsson was a bit player 4th line when he played, scratched or hurt a lot since he only played in about half the team’s total. Hard to produce much playing against men when you get 5-6 minutes a night.
I’d rather they leave the boom/bust picks until later in the draft where they don’t have as much potential to wreck a draft.
That draft netted Malkin, Goligoski and Kennedy. Any time you can get 3 solid contributing NHL’ers out of a draft (even if one’s a slam dunk), it’s a good one. Salmonsson hardly wrecked it.
Plus, 7 players from the 35 picks in the 2nd round have NHL careers. No matter who they went with there was an 80% chance of failure, given the players picked in the same neighborhood. And of the last 9 players picked in the first round, only 5 have NHL careers.
My point: it was hardly likely (without the benefit of foresight) that the Pens passed up a better option. They took what was regarded as one of the more skilled and promising players in that draft, even though it came with a caveat on the injuries.
Sometimes when you swing for the fences, you strike out. But most the other likely choices were proverbial ground-outs anyways, so no biggie.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
And by foresight above, I clearly meant hindsight...Whoops it's Monday
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
Call me crazy...
If the salary cap is set to go up, why can’t we concentrate on what we have and locking them up long term? This is such a good team and Shero finds way to bring it great role players without stirring the pot. I like the team as-is and don’t really think they need anything else. If there is something out there they could get, at what expense? What do the Pens have to lose to get it? This team has come so far and for the most part, has been the same over the past few years. Why mess with it?
by LightningCoach on Dec 6, 2010 2:16 PM EST reply actions
Because it doesn’t always work that way, players will be lost to FA no matter the situation. You can’t think as a fan when it comes to this, its jut business and the fact is 3rd/4th liners can be found anywhere I won’t grieve if adams, godard, asham, rupp don’t resign just like when gonch left didn’t care, loved him but he made room for Z and Paul which ill take any day over gonchs aging body
by Geno McFleury on Dec 6, 2010 2:25 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
I do think LC has a point though, the grinders on this team are a big reason for success and it’s always a good thing to keep familiarity and the good chemistry going.
Changes in pro rosters are inevitable, but I’d say there’s a great chance a lot of my question marks and openings will be filled by guys like Dupuis or Adams — if they decide staying in Pittsburgh is what’s important to them.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
Well I agree, just pointing out its unlikely but the pens bottom 6 is stable and consistent id have no objection to resigning them…most of them—rupp, adams, dupuis would like to resign and I can’t imagine godard leaving either. Pending any moves the Pens have a good chance of resigning their depth
by Geno McFleury on Dec 6, 2010 2:34 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Godard....
Dude should sign for minimum. HA, well, at least what he can agree on. He serves a great purpose and you’re right, he won’t find a better situation. I do agree with you here as well.
by LightningCoach on Dec 6, 2010 2:37 PM EST up reply actions
You sure about that?
Derek Boogaard – $1.625 million per year for 4 years
Jody Shelley – $1.1mm for 3 years
Colton Orr – $1.0mm for 4 years
GM’s do the darndest things sometimes…
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
That's for sure.
NYR – we all know their history with signing players. Just BRUTAL!
PHI – They always spend too much for fighters. Trying to revoke the broadstreet Bullies past.
TOR – Was Orr there before Burke? Still, I see Burke (if it was him) trying to make them tougher…yeah, that worked out well.
GM’s – Yes they most certainly do. I don’t see Shero doing that though. If Godard wants too much, he’ll find someone who will take what he is willing to give…meaning Shero will find them.
by LightningCoach on Dec 6, 2010 2:50 PM EST up reply actions
HEY WE’RE TUFF
But seriously, the team was very wimpy before Burke came along.
And yeah, he signed Orr
Hey, if you’re gonna call us birds you might as well call us chickens.
You’ve been drinking the Burke-Wilson koolaid again, Leafer!
I wouldn’t say the team was exactly “wimpy”. They were just undisciplined and unmotivated — which is no real surprise, given their various contracts, combined with the eternal-love-for-hockey-players atmosphere in Toronto.
Crosby.
Its almost as bad as Malkin demanding 10.3 million on my NHL 11 career lol let’s hope that’s not the case in a few years
by Geno McFleury on Dec 6, 2010 3:05 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Honestly...
When I mean those players we have who have been around for a while, I should have clarified. I didn’t mean Godard, Asham or Rupp. I mean Our core guys plus Kennedy (even then, that’s pushing it a bit), Talbot, Adams, Duper, Kunitz. Those guys I would try to keep. They mesh well with our top guys and, to boot, they are great Penalty Killers. I agree with what you say, just not 100%. Hooks is right as well, sometimes it’s up to those guys to make the decision. Money…or a great chance to win the cup year in and year out? These guys will be competitive until around 35 (if that long), I don’t blame them for getting what they can while they can. That’s for sure.
FYI, I LOVED the move for Gonch. He wanted three years and I agree, NO WAY would the Pens need to give that to him. That’s a good move for him, money, and aGREAT move for the Pens because like you said, we got Z and Martin out of it. So if we lose guys and get a great replacement, I’m all for it.
by LightningCoach on Dec 6, 2010 2:34 PM EST up reply actions
J Umberger to play in Sid’s line. And play Malkin with Staal. The rest can be taken care with cheaper players.
The Hockey Dr.
That’s not a bad idea, Umberger has 1 more year and $3.75m (Kunitz money) left to go. And without great playmakers he’s been able to put up decent numbers.
I think the sticking point would be what Columbus may want in a trade. I’m sure they’d die to have a puck moving defenseman like Goligoski, but I wouldn’t trade him for a guy who’s only got 1 yr left before being a UFA.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
Would be cool to have yet another former Flyer light it up for us.
Get in the fast lane Grandma, the bingo game's ready to roll!
by PensForTheWin on Dec 6, 2010 11:11 PM EST up reply actions
Adams is not coming back next year (he almost retired before signing this last deal), and hopefully Goddard is gone, too.
I’d like them to re-sign Rupp and Dupuis (and I think both would be willing to do so), and make offers to Kennedy and Letestu. I think Talbot’s gone, however.
The Pens are so strong at center and defense, that I think they could plug in various wingers and still be extremely successful. No need overpaying for wingers and fourth-line players.
Adams is not coming back next year (he almost retired before signing this last deal)
Wait…what?
My Thoughts on the Pens & Twitter
"A player's game is a composition. Sometimes it's a line, sometimes a paragraph. Right now, Crosby's game is a novel." -Scott Burnside
I’ll see if I can find an article, but Adams was playing in the AHL when the Penguins picked him up in 2008. He had said that he might retire after the Stanley Cup victory, but signed a new deal.
Either way, I don’t really want to spend too much money (or any money at all) on a 34-year-old fourth liner/penalty killer.
Sure you’re thinking of the right guy? He got picked off of waivers to be sent down to the minors, but Adams hasn’t played in the AHL since 2005-06.
That said, I’m sure Adams wouldn’t be expensive at all. I’d expect another deal at or near the minimum salary. He seems to understand that role that he has. But if he decided not to come back, they could replace him easily. Either way, for me, it’s about the same.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
I think this is what I remembered:
Adams was with the Blackhawks and they put him on waivers because they were making some deals of their own. He was picked up by the Pens. I think I remember him giving an interview here in Chicago saying that if he had cleared waivers, he was just going to retire.
I was really surprised that he resigned with the Pens after ’09, because I thought he was done. Obviously not, and maybe I remember all of this from some fever dream I had when I had the swine flu.
Either way — fact or hallucination — I don’t think he needs to or should be re-signed after this year. Very nice player, but he’ll be 34 by the time October rolls around, and he’s just not valuable enough to keep going.
I found these quotes from the day that he signed his two year deal with the Pens:
“From the first day I wanted to come back to Pittsburgh if they wanted me. Luckily they wanted me and we were able get something done. I think both sides are happy with the outcome.”
“I’ve learned over the years that things change pretty fast in this game. I had a rough go (in Chicago) and feel like I won the lottery when the Penguins picked me up at the deadline. The success the team had and myself personally, I was able to get a two-year deal out of it.”
“There are no guarantees in life but part of my coming back is because we have such a good team. We have a lot of pieces in place and should be competitive for a long time.”
"I mean, please." --Sidney Crosby
Also he talked in an interview with FSN about how he felt like it might have been the end of the road for him (in Chicago) and he was fortunate to get a second chance with the Penguins. Obviously you want to say good things about your new team, so it’s possible he was sugarcoating his feelings, but I get the sense that if the Penguins are interested Adams would like an extension. He has a baby and he hasn’t made huge money in his career. Another year or two of an NHL salary could be important to him and his family.
"I mean, please." --Sidney Crosby
He has a baby and he hasn’t made huge money in his career. Another year or two of an NHL salary could be important to him and his family.
Never trade him!
Wait what? Haha.
Oh man I’m a sucker for stories like those. I could never succeed in a cold, hard world :(
by AppleSweetRose on Dec 6, 2010 6:32 PM EST up reply actions
same, I’d suck as a GM but the Leafs should still hire me as the new GM.
Hey, if you’re gonna call us birds you might as well call us chickens.
The universe moves depending on where Sidney Crosby is on the ice - IHeartPenguins
I vote thee the Toronto Maple Leafs General Manager!
/_and then the Leafs collapse and move to Winnipeg instead.
by AppleSweetRose on Dec 6, 2010 6:46 PM EST up reply actions
don’t ever look at ryan kesler’s baby, then. you’ll want to trade sidney for him after that.
LETANG FOR NORRIS.
Oh gosh…that picture. My gosh. What a cutie.
My Thoughts on the Pens & Twitter
"A player's game is a composition. Sometimes it's a line, sometimes a paragraph. Right now, Crosby's game is a novel." -Scott Burnside
Let the cuteness begin
My Thoughts on the Pens & Twitter
"A player's game is a composition. Sometimes it's a line, sometimes a paragraph. Right now, Crosby's game is a novel." -Scott Burnside
by AllieLXXXVII on Dec 6, 2010 6:42 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Oh my god SUCH a cute picture! TRADE SID! Hahaha
by AppleSweetRose on Dec 6, 2010 6:45 PM EST up reply actions
He has another kid who is a couple of years older too. It’s not like they are going to starve without another year in the NHL — he has made enough money to retire if he wants and do something else, and I’m sure his wife has skills too. But it doesn’t hurt. College is expensive these days, especially if Adams wants them to follow in his footsteps and attend Harvard. :)
"I mean, please." --Sidney Crosby
MORE BABIES. MY ADDLED BRAIN LOVES IT.
LETANG FOR NORRIS.
by katielynn906 on Dec 7, 2010 12:07 AM EST up reply actions
Kind of a pointless discussion, but I'm bored, so...
Not only is Craig a Harvard man, his father-in-law, Paul Cellucci, is a former governor of Massachusetts, US ambassador to Canada, and currently holds the title of special counsel with one of the oldest & largest law firms in the US.
I’d say Craig is well-connected for a post-hockey career.
Maybe you’re thinking of the other Adams that won the Cup with Craig Adams in 05-06.
Kevyn Adams?
My Thoughts on the Pens & Twitter
"A player's game is a composition. Sometimes it's a line, sometimes a paragraph. Right now, Crosby's game is a novel." -Scott Burnside
I wouldn’t be adverse to signing Adams for close to the league minimum. The guy tried to block Nic Lidstrom’s shot at the end of game seven with his face—sure, he didn’t quite make it over in time, but he still dove face first to get in the way of it. Anybody with that much heart can stay on my team.
by Hatt the Moople on Dec 6, 2010 6:29 PM EST up reply actions
Agree. Face first for a cup. Dude is always making plays and hitting people, I honestly think he is one of the cogs of our team, and we need to re up him.
Get in the fast lane Grandma, the bingo game's ready to roll!
by PensForTheWin on Dec 6, 2010 11:13 PM EST up reply actions
Notable unrestricted free agents: Pascal Dupuis, Max Talbot, Mike Rupp, Eric Godard, Craig Adams, Arron Asham, Deryk Engelland
(Tyler Kennedy and Mark Letestu are set to become restricted free agents)
Woah Hooks looks like you blew open a powder-keg from all the comments.
I say let Godard walk, Letestu may walk Asham may walk too.
HAVE to resign Adams HAVE to re sign Kennedy and Talbot…We need more Deryk Engelland too.
Mike Rupp has had some great time here, and his role is huge, would love more of him (plus he talked to me on twitter once.)
Duper in some peoples eyes is replaceable but to me he is the most irreplaceable of the bunch.
I mean I have no idea how it will pan out not really familiar with the FA’s coming up, but I hope we sign a lot of people, rather than play go fish.
Get in the fast lane Grandma, the bingo game's ready to roll!
Duper in some peoples eyes is replaceable but to me he is the most irreplaceable of the bunch.
Unless they get some sort of winger for Sid some time soon, Duper will stay for the sole reason that he and Crosby work so well together.
The power of working well with the franchise player….
My Thoughts on the Pens & Twitter
"A player's game is a composition. Sometimes it's a line, sometimes a paragraph. Right now, Crosby's game is a novel." -Scott Burnside
by AllieLXXXVII on Dec 7, 2010 12:11 AM EST up reply actions
That’s not to say that Duper isn’t good at anything else but, if nothing else, at the end of the day, he and Sid just mesh well.
My Thoughts on the Pens & Twitter
"A player's game is a composition. Sometimes it's a line, sometimes a paragraph. Right now, Crosby's game is a novel." -Scott Burnside
by AllieLXXXVII on Dec 7, 2010 12:13 AM EST up reply actions
Couldn’t have said it better.
Get in the fast lane Grandma, the bingo game's ready to roll!
by PensForTheWin on Dec 7, 2010 10:00 AM EST up reply actions
I think the main question re. Dupuis will be about what sort of money they need to pay him for him to stay. He’s not due a huge payout, but his first line responsibilities demand some monetary recognition. On the other hand, it’s not clear what he’d get on the open market.
I’m going to defer to Shero on this one!
Crosby.
My point here is that the Pens will probably be willing to over-pay him slightly because of his chemistry with Sid.
My Thoughts on the Pens & Twitter
"A player's game is a composition. Sometimes it's a line, sometimes a paragraph. Right now, Crosby's game is a novel." -Scott Burnside
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