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Pittsburgh Penguins Talk: Free Agency Wish Lists

By Matthew Rodrigopulle

Jun 11, 2017; Nashville, TN, USA; The Pittsburgh Penguins celebrate defeating the Nashville Predators in game six of the 2017 Stanley Cup Final at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 11, 2017; Nashville, TN, USA; The Pittsburgh Penguins celebrate defeating the Nashville Predators in game six of the 2017 Stanley Cup Final at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports /
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Shane Lunnen

There are two big needs that the Pens need in free agency. Nick Bonino is most likely leaving Pittsburgh so a center will be needed to replace him and the Penguins also need to bolster the defense. I’m in the camp that Tristian Jarry is ready to be the backup to Matt Murray. Maybe the front office thinks differently, but I won’t be talking about any goalies.

Minnesota Wild center Martin Hanzal would be a great pick-up for the Penguins if they can afford him. He plays great two-way hockey and would provide boost on the second powerplay unit. He’s 30 so he’s still in his prime although he is a little bit injury prone which is concerning. There also has been no definitive word on retirement for Matt Cullen. If he doesn’t come back, Dominick Moore would be a solid pick up as a fourth line center and he would probably come fairly cheap.

Trevor Daley will probably be playing elsewhere next season so the Penguins need to pick up at least one or two defensemen in my opinion. Cody Franson played his last two seasons in Buffalo and hasn’t been great, but I think with the right team he could be much better. He’s right handed and can he skate. Think he would be a solid addition. Michael Stone of the Calgary Flames is another name to watch. Stone would be more expensive than Franson, but he’s young, a right hander and can play on the top two lines nightly.

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