The exodus of former Penguin players to division rivals has continued, as Mike Rupp has signed with the New York Rangers for three years and a total of $4.5 million.
Rupp, who was signed two years ago by Pittsburgh for $850,000, showed good hands, size and a willingness to fight. Interestingly his best games as a Pen came against the Rangers, and they're the team that jumped right out the gates a few hours into free agency and showed Rupp the money.
It was rumored the Penguins did not want to go above $1 million per year for Rupp, and likely would not have offered him more than a two year contract, so he definitely was able to cash in. When the Penguins did not think they could get Rupp back, they moved on to bringing back Arron Asham for one year and $775,000; about half of Rupp's new price.
General Manager Ray Shero loves size and guys who can fight, now that Asham and defenseman Deryk Engelland are the only two regular scrappers on the team, don't be surprised if he looks to target a little more muscle for the Pens on an inexpensive contract.