First Scott Hannan, now Paul Kariya. Both players rejected the Penguins today and went the money route. Hannan was a long shot from the begining as the Penguins offered Hannan a 4 year deal worth 15 million. He signed in Colorado for 18 million over four years. Therefore Paul Kariya was very close to a sure thing as some in the organization felt Kariya signing in Pittsburgh was a done deal. Kariya shocked the hockey world tonight signing in St.Louis. They were offering the most money but many felt they were a longshot because they are in rebuilding mode. Looks like money won out once again.
Now where do the Penguins go from here. On defense they are serious suitors for Detroit Red Wings defenseman Danny Markov. The Penguins have offered two year deal. There is interest from the Penguins in Andy Sutton. On offense its a different story. The Penguins could make a play for right winger Bill Guerin. Brendan Shananhan is still out there. If I’m Sidney Crosby im calling Shananhan right this moment. The two are friends and Shananhan has speaks very highly of Crosby. The Penguins could also pursue the trade route. Boston and Montreal are looking to unload salary. Well Montreal figures to be but they might be a afterthought after missing on the big 3. Oh yea the Penguins signed goalie Danny Sabourin. Better start planning the Stanley Cup parade.
The Penguins are making the same mistake they did in 05. Their selling point to free agents is come play with Sidney Crosby while in 05 it was come join the Crosby show and play with Mario. The Penguins are once again offering a few million less over the entire contract thinking players will actually take less money for the chance to play in Pittsburgh. Most of the times its always about money and Paul Kariya backs that theory.
Key Notes
Scott Hannan offer 4 yrs 15 million
Paul Kariya – 3years 12 million
Danny Markov – 2yrs – 6 million: The Penguins are waiting to hear from Markov.
Possbilities on offense: Petr Skyora, Michael Nylander or the trade route
