I still think something around Guentzel for Kuzmenko, a 1st, and Lekkerimaki is the way to go. Then see if we can flip Kuzmenko for something that helps us in the now.pens_CT wrote: ↑Mon Jan 29, 2024 10:28 pmI guess if they trade Jake and acquire a 1st round pick as part of the deal, they could flip that pick for some more immediate help, rather than hope a late 1st round pick turns into an average player in 3 to 4 years. Think of a pending UFA that could help them now, and maybe could be-resigned using the cap money that Guentzel leaves behind. Any ideas ??KG wrote: ↑Mon Jan 29, 2024 9:30 pm Friedman was on NHL network tonight and talked about the Pens potential plans for the deadline.
He said he expects them to go through a “soft rebuild” over the next couple of years and recoup assets and build. Said Dubas will talk with Jake’s agent during the break and go from there.
He also said we will not be buyers that won’t be trading first, second round picks or our top prospects.
Sounds like Dubas wants to know what direction Jake is going before the deadline so he can make a decision on a trade.
Have to wonder if Dubas is going to have a similar discussion with other vets.
Real curious to see where this goes….
The top 5 point producing UFAs on non-playoff teams:
1. Sean Monahan, 13 goals, 35 points...
2. Vlad Tarasenko, 13 goals, 32 points...
3. Elias Lindholm, 9 goals, 32 points...
4. Adam Henrique, 15 goals, 32 points...
5. Jordan Eberle, 9 goals, 28 points...
If they go to UFA, I'd expect a stronger contender is going to outbid us for Tarasenko or Lindholm. I wouldn't mind Monahan if we had a stronger team. Henrique and Eberle are mid-30s...not what we need.
Kuzmenko is listed at #7 on Athletic trade board, Jake at #10. If you could make that deal with Vancouver, then flip a 50% retained Kuzmenko to a strong playoff contender for a 1st, 2nd, roster player (cap reasons) and a high prospect (yes, that's more than Jake, but that's also factoring in a big cost to retain 50% for this year and next)...Penguins would have a really good jump on a retool.