Addressing the Wing Position
Despite addressing several positional needs, the Penguins still require a winger to replace Reilly Smith. With Free Agency past and premier forwards signed elsewhere, exploring the trade market is a more viable solution for the Penguins.
Toronto Maple Leafs – Forward – Nicholas Robertson
Nicholas Robertson is a young winger from the Toronto Maple Leafs who currently lacks a contract. The former 53rd overall pick in the 2019 draft will be just 23 years old at the start of the next season. Dubas has emphasized the need for younger players to support the aging core of the roster and aid in the franchise’s transition. Robertson is an ideal breakout candidate who could join Pittsburgh’s youth movement while providing scoring depth. Known for his quick release and high energy, Robertson could excel alongside Sidney Crosby. Last season, Robertson notched 27 points in 56 games, averaging just 11:22 minutes of ice time per game.
Without an NHL contract, Toronto only owns Robertson’s RFA rights, potentially benefiting the Penguins. Signing him likely won’t be expensive due to his limited NHL experience, and with their available cap space, the Penguins wouldn’t need to offload anyone to sign him. Additionally, his status as a frequent healthy scratch and disgruntled player without a contract means he might not command much in a trade.
Columbus Blue Jackets – Forward – Patrik Laine
Patrik Laine is an intriguing trade target for the Penguins. The former 2nd overall pick will be 26 years old next season. Laine’s scoring prowess makes him a valuable asset. As a big winger with an incredible shot, he would pair well with Sidney Crosby. While there are concerns about his defensive performance, playing alongside Crosby and Bryan Rust could mitigate these issues. When available, Laine is an elite offensive presence. Last season, he played only 18 games, tallying nine points before entering the Player Assistance Program. However, in the 2021-2022 season, Laine was a point-per-game player, and he came close to that mark in the 2022-2023 season.
Laine would be an expensive addition with an $8.7 million cap hit for this season and the next. Acquiring him would likely necessitate moving out a player like Ryan Graves or Tristan Jarry to make the cap work. However, concerns about Laine’s availability might reduce his trade value, allowing Dubas to potentially offload an inflated contract in a trade.
Winnipeg Jets – Forward – Nikolaj Ehlers
Nikolaj Ehlers is a dynamic offensive winger known for his incredible speed. The 9th overall pick in the 2014 draft will be 28 years old when the next season begins. Ehlers’ speed and positional flexibility make him a valuable asset, capable of playing both wings and bottom-six checking roles when needed. His playstyle would complement either Sidney Crosby or Evgeni Malkin, and his speed and forechecking ability would align well with Coach Mike Sullivan’s system. Last season, Ehlers averaged 15:52 minutes of ice time, achieving 25 goals and 61 points over a full 82 games.
Ehlers is on an expiring contract with a $6 million cap hit this upcoming season. Acquiring him would require moving out other cap hits. However, Dubas has been cautious with longer contracts, and the Penguins will have cap space to re-sign Ehlers. Although he would be the most expensive trade in terms of value, requiring a first-round pick and a younger player, acquiring Ehlers would signal the Penguins’ commitment to winning a fourth Stanley Cup with their core group.
Which Target Makes the Most Sense?
Deciding on the best trade target is challenging and reflects the Penguins’ future plans. While Nikolaj Ehlers would significantly boost the offense, his high trade and future contract costs make him a less likely option given Dubas’ focus on restocking the prospect pool.
Patrik Laine also offers a substantial offensive boost but comes with concerns about his availability and cap hit. If Dubas can offload some current salaries, Laine could be a perfect reclamation project, considering his past potential as a top goal-scorer.
Nicholas Robertson: The Best Fit
Nicholas Robertson is the easiest case to make for becoming a Penguin. Young and capable of driving offense, Robertson has a draft pedigree and is known for his speed and scoring. The main barrier would be negotiating terms with the Maple Leafs, as Dubas was publicly fired by President Brendan Shanahan last summer, potentially complicating communication. Despite the Leafs’ preference to keep and develop Robertson, his request for a trade could facilitate a deal. If Dubas can navigate these issues, Robertson could be a long-term asset for the Penguins.
Ultimately, the decision will hinge on Dubas and his team’s assessment of the Penguins’ immediate needs versus long-term goals. With some cap space remaining and one notable hole left to fill before the season starts, GM Kyle Dubas is in a position to bring in a forward capable of pushing the Penguins closer to contention.
Leave a Reply