Once Guentzel returns

I’d be a little surprised if Wagner gets a contract, he hasn’t really distinguished himself in camp and the Pens have plenty of guys like him already signed. Signing Pysyk is a waste of a contract, he’s injured too often. Not worth it.

I can agree with this. How do the lines look to you though (especially the bottom six)?

It comes down to Hino, White, Zohorna, and Harkins battling for two roster spots, with Wagner on the outside looking in. White & Harkins are more practiced at center than Zo, which probably gives them the edge. And Hino might be screwed there. It’s pretty evident the Pens don’t want Carter playing center. I think you’re right that Acciari moves up to 3RW. Nieto is locked into the 4LW spot with Carter at 4RW (doubt Sully sits him). So, that puts the Pens in need of a 4C, hence White or Harkins. But, I could also be completely wrong, lol.

Shea & Friedman battling for the 7D spot.

I doubt they sign Wagner or pysyk with the claim of Harkins and the signing of White. They will want a couple of contract spots for in season trades. I think Harkins and Z have won spots with White being the extra forward until Jake gets back.

Guentzel-Crosby-Rakell
Smith-Geno-Rust
DOC-Eller-Acciari
Nieto-Harkins-Carter
Once Jake comes back. But I’d honestly swap DOC and Smith TBH.

Yep, looks like Harkins & Zo have won the jobs. There are six forwards making $5M or more, they’re clearly your top six. The problem is they don’t really have anyone else who can play in the top six regularly. DOC’s probably the guy who plays up if there’s an injury, but he’s not a legit top-six F by any stretch of the imagination.

The team is truly top heavy. They essentially have two first lines and two fourth lines. Same with their top-four D.