One of the Pittsburgh Penguins biggest issues the past few years is cashing in on their xGF% into actual goals. The issue is that goals usually cost money and the players who score them aren’t always available. There are no perfect deals out there, but there are situations where there might be leverage to be had.
A true finisher may be on the market and his perceived value might make it an advantageous target for the Penguins.
My understanding is that the Columbus Blue Jackets intend to work with Patrik Laine’s camp, led by agent Andy Scott of Octagon, to find the star winger a fresh start with a new team.
Laine remains in the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program, having sought help in January. He also recently had a minor shoulder cleanup procedure, but that’s not expected to be an issue. The expectation is that he’ll be ready to go for next season.
The 26-year-old 2016 No. 2 pick has two years left on his contract at an $8.7 million cap hit.
Patrik Laine came hot out of the gate in his career scoring 36, 44, 30, and 28 goals his first four seasons. Injuries have cost him significant time along with navigating his mental health. Because of the missed time he is a buy “low” candidate. If a team like the Penguins were willing to take on the contract without assistance they might be able to acquire Laine without giving up a lot. I think the team could make things work financially given it is only a two year term. Moving out Reilly Smith shouldn’t be too tall an order whether that would be within a Laine trade or independently in another deal.
Laine is a pure finisher and as a right handed player with a big shot it seems like the kind of thing that could really fix the Penguins underperforming power play. He isn’t going to drive play significantly. His value is tied up in his finishing, which has been elite
I like the risk reward of Laine. Cost to acquire is lower than what it would normally cost for a player with his finishing ability. His injury past is a risk, but also why the cost should be lower. The two years of term is very manageable in my opinon. The 8.7M might not be 8.7M
Moving Laine won’t be easy, and it’s possible the Blue Jackets may have to retain some of his salary or sweeten the offer to swing a deal.
He has two seasons remaining on a contract that pays him $8.7 million per season. That’s a big salary for any team to consider taking on, even though the NHL’s salary cap — after years of dormancy — will increase by $4.5 million to $88 million next season.
These are the types of opportunities the Penguins have to at least consider given where they are. Buying low is close to a must. I think a team would be buying low on Patrick Laine right now.
Thanks for reading!
Pittsburgh Penguins Blogger • 
Join the Discussion:
»
