Team: 2024-25 Pittsburgh Penguins

Initial Creation Date: Apr. 15, 2024

Published: Apr. 15, 2024

Salary Cap Mode: Basic

TRADES:

I really like this Carolina team. I certainly think they can make the Cup Final. You're welcome for Jake Guentzel. Thank you for Michael Bunting.

I think Lizotte can bring so much to this bottom six. He can play the wing or center position. He just adds a spark and can chip in offensively without being a liability in his own end. I like what he brings on the penalty kill. He can certainly keep the kill as a top 10 unit in the league. Bonus, he's young. Not sure what the cost is, and I can understand if LA would prefer to extend him, but I just really like his game.

In most of my ACGM's, I tend to keep Graves. I recognize that his contract is essentially horrendous, but I really try to be optimistic about his potential. I'm not opposed to him staying in Pittsburgh, but I think the Penguins could work something out with Arizona/Salt Lake City. All of their current defensemen are on expiring contracts, his 5 year deal would give them one less guy to negotiate with. He could bring a veteran presence which would be much needed for a team that hasn't really had a true home recently.

We all know Reilly Smith doesn't fit on this team. For a long time he has looked like he doesn't want to be here. I think that narrative may be starting to change, but not entirely. I'm not sure he would want to go to Ottawa, but it's just a few hours from his hometown. I think they were one of the teams in on him at the deadline (not entirely sure). Pittsburgh retains 50% in this scenario to sweeten the deal.

UFA SIGNINGS:

I have really liked Ryan Shea's game recently. Him and St. Ivany have very good chemistry and they seem to compliment each other well. I think he is a better option than Ludvig or Joseph for that matter. I think the coaching staff and management like POJ. He plays best with Letang, but he's just not a first pairing type guy.

Michael Amadio's play has gone under the radar. Lots of firepower in Vegas so I can understand how he can be overlooked. But, I think he can bring some scoring to the bottom six, in particular the third line. Not sure what his price would be because he currently makes league minimum. Let me know how much you think he would cost in the comments.

I don't think much needs to be said about Ned. He's starting his 12th consecutive game tonight. His play has dwindled recently, but he should still be the top priority for Dubas this offseason. I think it's a no-brainer. He might get more on the open market, but he seems to want to stay in Pittsburgh, and we want him. I can see a world where Jarry gets traded and Blomqvist gets a roster spot next year. We shall see.

Chandler Stephenson is a Mike Sullivan type of player. He can play up and down the lineup, on the wing or at center. Just has an incredible battle level and could seriously bring so much to this team. He plays so well on both sides of the puck and brings some physicality. Like Amadio, I don't think Vegas has the money to resign him. I think they're going to target Marchessault.

I don't know much about Brady Skjei to be honest. I do know he's a big, fast defenseman who can eat minutes like nothing. He has career highs in assists and points this year. I'm not sure that Carolina will like to resign him. Likely too expensive for them and I think they'd rather spend money on a Guentzel and/or Necas extension.

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