Penguins/NHL
TIOPS Rumor Mill
The Minnesota Wild have emerged [hide] as the top trade contender for Penguins forward Eric Fehr were the Penguins decide to part ways with Fehr, league sources say.
The Wild looking to add a 4th line center with size to solidify their bottom-6, have made multiple trade inquiries into Fehr over the last month since the Penguins resigned Matt Cullen.
Every season is different but eyeing a unique opportunity to bring back pretty much the same roster that won a Stanley Cup, Penguins GM Jim Rutherford has told rival executives he wants to give this group a quarter of the season together again before parting with any roster players.
That said, league sources indicate Rutherford won’t be shy to move contributors from last seasons run were the Penguins to be stagnant out of the gates and the Penguins are listening to feelers from other clubs on players teams believe could become available.
While talks have been very preliminary, one player that strongly interests the Penguins in Fehr talks has been young defenseman Mike Reilly who the Penguins tried to sign last summer.
Fehr’s fit in Pittsburgh has come into question. He’s a better center than winger (wants to play center) but Penguins coach Mike Sullivan wants centers who can skate well. If Matt Cullen had not resigned with Pittsburgh, it was still not a lock that Fehr would have moved into the 4th line center.
Pittsburgh also has several prospects on entry level deals or cheap contracts knocking on the door for regular NHL roles, Scott Wilson, Daniel Sprong when he’s healthy, Josh Archibald and Jake Guentzel among them.
The best thing Fehr has going for him is his close relationship with Sidney Crosby. The two became very close last season and Rutherford has been torn on messing with the leadership in that room, sources say
It’s been part of the reason the likes of Fehr and Chris Kunitz were not moved despite trade interest from multiple teams.
However, not everyone is sold that bringing back the same group is the best route. The Penguins coaching staff hope to avoid players feeling too comfortable and Are intrigued about more AHLers pushing regulars for playing time
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