Penguins/NHL
Penguins in holding pattern with a pair of free agent defensemen
The Pittsburgh Penguins offer to Philippe Boucher remains on the table as training camp is set to open on September 12th.
Boucher, 36, is contemplating a return to Pittsburgh or retirement at this time.
Boucher who is training extensively with the intention of returning for a 17th season, will meet with members of the Penguins coaching staff/front office this weekend in Kitchener, Ontario.
The Penguins have made Boucher a one year offer worth $600,000. Pittsburgh would like Boucher back in a role as a mentor to young defensemen Alex Goligoski and Kris Letang and be the Penguins 7th defenseman.
Options for Penguins if Boucher doesn’t return
If Boucher decides to retire, Pittsburgh will still look to bring in a veteran defenseman.
Martin Skoula remains a player of interest for the Penguins.
Skoula turned down a two way offer from the Penguins in early August but talks could re-start if Boucher doesn’t return.
Former Montreal Canadiens defenseman Francois Bullion has also been on the radar of the Penguins.
Bullion is mulling offers from the Bruins, Rangers and Blackhawks. Pittsburgh has discussed a 1 year deal (two way contract) with Bullion’s camp.
Exploring a trade for a cheap reliable veteran defenseman has also been explored by the Penguins front office.
A potential trade for a veteran defenseman would likely not happen until closer to the season when the Penguins see how things shake out in training camp.
