Pittsburgh Penguins: Top Five Offseason Mistakes to Avoid This Summer
By Mike Necciai
Mar 12, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins center Sidney Crosby (87) and center Evgeni Malkin (71) celebrate a power play goal by Crosby against the Edmonton Oilers during the second period at the CONSOL Energy Center. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
1. Don’t Panic!
Remember, contrary to what a lot of fans and media believe, this organization isn’t in dire straights. You don’t have to trade the superstars!
The Pittsburgh Penguins still have arguably the best two players in the world. They have a world class goaltender and a defenseman that should have been a Norris Trophy candidate despite missing thirteen games this season. They also have multiple players that are unrestricted free agents and some cap room to add the right pieces.
There are moveable assets such as Brandon Sutter, young defensive prospects, and even Matt Murray as I touched on here. If you start the season with lineup like below, you’ll be just fine.
Kapanen – Crosby – Hornqvist
Perron – Malkin – Trade/FA/Bennett
Kunitz – Sundqvist – Dupuis
Wilson – Winnik – Downie
I imagine you may be able to resign Daniel Winnik and Steve Downie for around $1.5 million each. Of course, you can always address any needs or shortcomings when the trade deadline rolls around.