NHL: Godard’s role in Pittsburgh diminishing?

Regardless of what the Penguins are going to say publicly, the organization is actively shopping enforcer Eric Godard.

The team has been shopping Godard since late June and the signing of Michael Rupp re-enforced that notion.

Dan Bylsma wants to have a 4th line that is tough to play against but not to the extent of having an player who can’t contribute much at all.

Michael Rupp may not be the fighter that Godard is but he serves the purpose of an enforcer and is a much more intimidating hitter. Most importantly, he can also play the game.

Rupp has good speed for an enforcer and he fits Dan Bylsma system much better than Godard does.

If Dustin Jeffrey earns a roster spot, Godard’s days in Pittsburgh will be numbered. Ryan Bayda, Paul Bissonnette and Tim Wallace are also battling for the final forward spots.

One team Pittsburgh has held discussions with recently is the Colorado Avalanche. The Av’s are expected to let things shakeout in camp before pursuing any more talks.

The Avalanche have been in the market for an enforcer and expressed early interest in Godard. Despite the signing of David Koci, the Av’s remain interested.

Pittsburgh has been trying to acquire Av’s prospect Brad Malone for the past year but Godard alone won’t be able to land Malone, the cousin of Ryan Malone.

Indications are Godard won’t be heading out of Pittsburgh in the next week or two but his role has been diminished on the team and with prospects such as Dustin Jeffrey, Tim Wallace and Luca Caputi pushing for a roster spot, Pittsburgh is actively looking for a potential trade partner.

Colorado could be a likely destination.

Godard has a cap hit of $750,000 for the next two seasons.