Over the recent offseason, the Penguins were looking to take on bad contracts as long as teams were offering them high draft picks to take on those contracts. The Penguins got one of those offers from the St. Louis Blues, as they did not see Kevin Hayes as part of their future.
The Penguins had their minds set on more draft picks and the Blues decided to add on a second-round pick to sweeten the deal and get the Penguins to take on the bulk of the contract.
He was in and out of the Penguins lineup but ever since being back in for the last while, he has been playing well and is serviceable as the third-line center for the club. But most Penguins fans are going to want to trade him because he is already over the age of 30 and has a 5 million cap hit.
But if the Penguins do not get offered another high draft pick for him, they should hold on to him and see if he can help with a potential playoff run this year.
Hayes helps drive offense even when star players are out hurt or sick
It may not seem like it all the time, but in the last two games before the Four Nations break, Hayes was bumped up the lineup because he is relied upon and helpful in the offensive department.
He was the Penguins first-line center in the final game before the break as Crosby and Malkin were out and he even scored a goal to help the cause in a game the Penguins should have won.
He even plays on the second powerplay unit but gets bumped up to the first unit if there are injuries or sickness.
When Crosby went out with his injury against the Devils, Hayes tied the game up and helped get the Penguins a point. His offense has been proven this season with nine goals already on the year.
Kevin Hayes - Pittsburgh Penguins (9) pic.twitter.com/iaxotuqFki
— NHL Goal Videos (@NHLGoalVideos) February 5, 2025
Hayes can move up and down the lineup when called upon
Wherever Hayes is needed, he can play. He can be first-line center, second-line center, third-line center, you name it.
He is a veteran with plenty of years under his belt and can be relied upon and have his number called when his coach needs him.
The Penguins should only entertain calls on him if a third-round pick or higher is offered, otherwise they should keep him for what he is and he can be a mentor for some of the younger Penguins coming up to the big leagues soon.