NHL Trades and Rumors
Penguins Having Trouble Getting Letang Signed, Trade Deadline Plans
Ron Hextall says he likes his team but will look to add at the deadline. Meanwhile, Kris Letang’s deal isn’t getting done. Is there a link?
The Pittsburgh Penguins organization recently shared a quote from GM Ron Hextall that spoke of his plans heading into the NHL Trade Deadline. Saying he’s going to look at a couple options, it doesn’t sound like the Penguins are going to be a very busy team.
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Hextall notes:
“I feel pretty good about the depth of our team. Would we like to add a little bit up front? Yeah, that would be a fair statement… I feel good, I don’t feel like I have to do anything, but if we can get better I am going to try.”
There are names like Phil Kessel out there, Brock Boeser might be moved out of Vancouver and there are some names out there that many believe could be moved, such as Jake DeBrusk, Rickard Rakell or Andrew Copp. Do any of them fit for the Penguins? Time will tell.
Seeing the comments from Hextall, TSN’s LeBrun notes, “…my sense is Hextall would like to add a top-six scoring winger with term, not a rental. Would prefer the hockey deal route if at all possible.” That rules out someone like Kessel but could make a player like Boeser intriguing. He’s due a big qualifying offer and that’s a hefty commitment from the Penguins should they go there, but if Pittsburgh moves out a little salary in the deal, it’s a logical trade from a cap perspective for this season.
What About Next Season?
What could be interesting is how a player like Kris Letang plays into what the Penguins are willing to add when it comes to a player with term. Reports are that the two sides (the Penguins and Letang) aren’t close on a new deal.
Frank Seravalli of Daily Faceoff says that while the two sides remain cordial and continue talks, it doesn’t seem like the Penguins and the pending UFA defenseman are getting very far. Letang is seeking a five-year contract starting at least with $7 million. The Penguins don’t want to go five years and run the risk of his play declining dramatically as he approaches 40 years old. Might the Penguins be willing to add a player with term on a contract that pays something moving forward because Letang might not be a part of the equation next season? That too is very interesting.
Next: Maple Leafs Are Searching NHL for Goaltending Help, Checked on Fleury
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