Without Anthony Mantha producing over 30 goals for the Pittsburgh Penguins, this group could be in trouble. With it being the dead portion of the offseason, there are still many interesting free agents available for the club to consider signing.
The Penguins still have $13.67 million in cap space available, so it makes sense to spend more in free agency or add on the trade market.
One name who could immediately bring scoring to the lineup is free agent Patrick Laine. Creating chances and burying the puck in the back of the net is not something uncommon for the winger. He has done those things on a routine basis during his NHL career. Although he hasn't evolved into a superstar like many projected when he was drafted, he brings a high-end scoring option.
Kyle Dubas said he would love mid to late 20-year-olds with high end talent to join the Penguins in their transition to a new era over the next several years. Laine would certainly fit that mold at just 28 and likely heading into the prime of his career. The skater shouldn't cost too much money and could be a similar free agent gamble that Anthony Mantha was last year.
Pittsburgh Penguins should be targeting free agent Patrick Laine this offseason
The former second overall pick from the 2014 NHL Draft has shown mixed results. His ability to score has been his greatest weapon, but his overall game remains a problem. He has also suffered some long-term injuries throughout his career, which has hindered him as a player.
Laine is someone coming off his biggest injury yet, but that could produce a fantastic opportunity for the Penguins.
After their successful experience with Anthony Mantha, who was also coming off a major injury last year, the team could be comfortable signing Laine as a free agent. As long as he is willing to take a reasonable contract, it could make sense for both sides. The free agent would land in a place that should compete this year and potentially inflate his numbers to cash in next offseason.
When you look at Laine's potential fit in Pittsburgh, and it doesn't make too much sense at the moment. Their entire top six is filled with many talented skaters, plus the vacancies along the rest of their lineup are mostly filled. They wouldn't have many spots for Laine to take, but that could always change.
The high-profile scorer could always become an option if they trade away a top six player.
It would be surprising to see the Penguins remain stagnant for the remainder of the offseason. They have too many needs to fill, and they could always trade away one of those top six wingers. If that happens, then signing a free agent like Patrick Laine makes a world of sense. He shouldn't cost much and his potential payoff could be massive, just like Mantha was last time around.
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