Kyle Dubas’ arrival as the Penguins’ GM was highly anticipated. With the goal of revitalizing the team and ensuring their competitiveness, Dubas has made several significant moves. This article highlights the three best decisions made by Dubas, analyzing their impact on the Penguins’ performance and future.
Three Best Moves Made by Kyle Dubas
#3. Kevin Hayes Trade
The acquisition of Kevin Hayes from the St. Louis Blues added depth and versatility to the Penguins’ roster. Dubas secured Hayes and a second-round pick in exchange for the Penguins taking on a portion of Hayes’ salary. Hayes, a veteran with years of NHL experience, figures to fit into the bottom-six group of the team.
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Impact
Hayes’ presence bolsters the Penguins’ depth. He provides a reliable scoring option and solid two-way play. His versatility as a center and winger allows the coaching staff to experiment with different line combinations. The second-round pick acquired in the deal also adds a valuable asset to the Penguins’ cupboard. While Hayes has yet to play a game for the Penguins, the positive impact of his acquisition is evident.
Trade Analysis
Kevin Hayes was acquired along with a second-round pick for future considerations. Despite concerns about his salary, the addition of a second-round pick makes this trade more valuable. Hayes’ acquisition is seen as a calculated risk that provides both immediate and future benefits. As the Penguins are closer to re-tooling than being true contenders, these are the types of gambles that could pay off mightily for the team.
#2. Jake Guentzel Trade
Trading Jake Guentzel to the Carolina Hurricanes was a difficult decision for Dubas, but it ultimately brought significant returns that could benefit the Penguins in the long run. The star winger was an integral part of the team for nearly a decade. However, his expiring contract and desire for a salary commensurate with his performance led to a natural split.
Impact
The trade added depth and youth to the Penguins’ system, addressing both current and future needs. Michael Bunting showed tremendous chemistry with Evgeni Malkin and Rickard Rakell, scoring 19 points in 21 games after his acquisition. His style of play directly improved the team’s dreadful power play. Additionally, the prospects and draft picks acquired in the trade will help the Penguins in the future.
Trade Analysis
Moving Guentzel was controversial given his popularity and performance with the Penguins. However, the return package provided a mix of immediate help and future potential. In exchange, the Penguins received Michael Bunting, prospects Ville Koivunen, Vasili Ponomarev, Cruz Lucius, as well as second and fifth-round picks. Bunting has brought a competitive edge, while the prospects and draft picks offer long-term rewards. This trade showcases Dubas’ ability to make tough decisions that prioritize the team’s future while managing current needs effectively.
#1. Erik Karlsson Trade
The acquisition of Erik Karlsson was a headline move where Dubas managed to bring a Norris Trophy-winning defenseman to the Penguins. Dubas acquired Karlsson along with Rem Pitlick and a 2026 third-round draft pick in a deal that sent Jeff Petry, Casey DeSmith, Nathan Legare, Mikael Granlund, Jan Ruuta, a 2024 first-round pick, and a 2025 second-round pick to the San Jose Sharks and Montreal Canadiens.
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Impact
Karlsson’s impact was immediate. His presence on the blue line and power play provided the Penguins with a dynamic offensive threat from the back end. Despite the substantial cost, his ability to change the flow of games and contribute offensively was a major boost for the Penguins. Karlsson scored 56 points with the team last season. Employing Karlsson and Kris Letang on the same blue line gave the team many offensive options from the backend. Additionally, the Penguins saw an addition through subtraction, as players like Jeff Petry and Mikael Granlund had become redundant in their roles.
Trade Analysis
Bringing in Karlsson was a game-changer. Known for his exceptional offensive skills and skating ability, Karlsson was expected to rejuvenate the Penguins’ defense and power play. The trade involved significant assets, but the potential upside made it a calculated risk worth taking. Karlsson was not the only value the Penguins added to their roster. Mikael Granlund and Jeff Petry had become players providing negative results on the ice by the time of the trade. Both players were too expensive for their roles. Dubas’ genius in this trade was moving out two contracts with negative value while acquiring a superstar defenseman for minimal return. Karlsson’s acquisition highlights Dubas’ willingness to invest in high-impact players and take gambles if necessary.
Mike Sullivan’s praise for Dubas’ decisions underscores their significance. Each move has contributed to strengthening the Penguins’ roster, balancing immediate needs with future potential, and showcasing Dubas’ strategic acumen.
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