The Penguins first priority before addressing any trades seems to be signing Ryan Whitney to an extension before free agency begins. If Whitney would get a offer on the open market exceeding 4 million per season, the Penguins would be forced to trade Sergei Gonchar which they have no plans to do at the moment.
Penguins latest offer to Ryan Whitney has been a 4yr – 14 million deal…… More on this later Latest Rumors …..
Jonathan Filewich played a role in the Penguins letting go Michel Ouellet. Both had similar numbers in the minors, although Filewich may not have the scoring ability of Ouellet, the Penguins believe Filewich could be a main stay on the top 2 lines this season because of his speed and physical play.
Scott Hannan is looking like a long shot. He has rejected a 4yr deal worth 3.5 million per season from the Sharks and the Penguins will not go higher than 3.5 million per. The latest rumor on him is he may get a offer similar to what Pavel Kubina got last year ( 4yrs – 20 million). The Penguins don’t look like a possibly suitor anymore. As much as they like him there is no way they will tie up 4 million per season to Hannan.
Danny Markov the Penguins other off-season target is a more logical choice given shorter terms of contract and less money per season.
The Penguins do have mild interest in Nick Boynton but will not claim him off waivers…. Just to sum it up
Someone in the comments area brought up why There has not been any speculation about the Penguins being interested in Cory Sarich. He would be a nice fit. Check back later i ll be looking into that today …..
Heres how i would rank the Penguins wishlist on defense…..
1. Scott Hannan – unlikely
1A. Danny Markov
2. Cory Sarich ?
3. Aaron Miller
Potential Trades
1. Barret Jackman
2. Robin Regher
3. Nick Boynton ( last resort )
