Mar 11, 2015; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Anaheim Ducks left wing
Tomas Fleischmann(14) skates against the Calgary Flames during the first period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Calgary Flames won 6-3. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports
Center: Tomas Fleischmann
I do not believe the Penguins will be seeking any help in the center position via free agency, but stranger things have happened. There’s always the chance that Brandon Sutter gets moved this summer, in which case they’ll need to fill that role.
So, let us look at an option at center which is Tomas Fleischmann. Tomas is a guy with a lot of versatility. He has a history of playing well on the power play as well as the penalty kill, which has made him a very valuable player. Also, he has been very good in the face-off circle as well, which has been a weakness of the Penguins.
Fleischmann is a guy who is very good at distributing the puck to his wingers and finding them for long stretch passes at times. His cap hit would be around $4 mil, and yes, that seems a little high for a third line center, but keep in mind that Sutter currently makes $3.3 million.
Don’t stress Pens fans, I do not see Jim Rutherford making any major moves for a center in the free agent market this summer, but this could be an option if they find themselves in that position. Take a look at his HERO chart below! (via ownthepuck.blogspot.ca)