Penguins/NHL
Quick Hits
*The Penguins have had dialogue with Don Meehan the agent for Maxim Afinogenov over the past week but a contact in Afinogenov’s camp told Inside Pittsburgh Sports this afternoon that Afinogenov is not close to signing a new deal with any NHL team.
As of right now, nothing appears imminent this week I was told. The Penguins have yet to make an offer.
*It is only one day but top prospect Eric Tangradi is off to the type of start the Penguins wanted to see from him as the organization’s development camp began today.
Pens GM Ray Shero, head coach Dan Bylsma and Director of Amateur Scouting Jay Heinbuck were among the prominent members of the Penguins hockey operations staff in attendance today.
*The Penguins are not involved in any trade discussions regarding Alex Goligoski and Columbus Blue Jackets winger Nikita Filatov. The Penguins have no interest in moving Goligoski and are not discussing him in any potential moves. The team is expecting a big year from Goligoski.
*One of the most intriguing centers still on the market is Eric Belanger. A strong two-way centerman who has 13-18 goal potential and can also play wing.
Belanger though is not on the Penguins radar. He’s eyeing some long-term security and a salary upwards of $2 million.
*The Penguins and agent Kurt Overhardt have gradually discussed center Brendan Morrison a team source tells Inside Pittsburgh Sports. Overhardt represents Penguin winger Chris Conner who signed a one year deal with the Penguins today. Morrison could become a possibility for Pittsburgh to play a third line center role but again Pittsburgh has not moved on him to any extent
Morrison, 34, had 12 goals and 30 assists last season for the Washington Capitals. He was a plus-23 on the year.
