Pittsburgh Penguins: Free Agency Nears – 5 Options for the Pens in a Weak Market

Dec 27, 2014; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins center

(87) and Washington Capitals right wing

(16) battle for a loose puck during the second period at the CONSOL Energy Center. Washington won 3-0. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Eric Fehr

Whether you follow me on Twitter at @Michael29Angelo or simply read my work here, you’ll know that I’m very high on Fehr as a replacement for Brandon Sutter in 2015-16. There’s a reason why he was on this list earlier in the offseason, and still remains today.

The likelihood of Sutter getting traded is growing by the day. I’m confident in saying that any major trade will have to include number 16 in the return. So, assuming that, there were two centers that I was very high on as possibilities for the Pens. Now, it’s down to one as the Colorado Avalanche wrapped up a deal with Carl Soderberg after trading a sixth round draft pick for his negotiating rights.

Fehr had similar point production as Sutter last season, but made close to $2 million less. He’s more responsible defensively and still provides the same offensive potential. He’ll obviously require a raise, but if Sutter is moved he’s a guy that they need to jump on quickly to determine the cost of ownership.

Fehr finished 2014-15 with 33 points (19g, 14a). Also, his HERO chart is below, courtesy of ownthepuck.blogspot.ca, which shows that he produces similar to a second line center in most areas.