Comments for Offseason Game Plan: Pittsburgh Penguins at http://hockey.dobbersports.com , comment 1 to 2 out of 2 comments http://hockey.dobbersports.com Sun, 19 May 2013 07:09:48 +0100 FeedCreator 1.7.3 http://hockey.dobbersports.com/index.php/russ-miller/4830-offseason-game-plan-pittsburgh-penguins#comment-22156 Its borderline criminal that the Pens have Crosby on the 2nd line- but hes got guys like Dupuis/Kennedy/Cooke for linemates. Maybe they give Tangradi or Bennett a true shot, as atleast theyve shown some offensive insticts in the past. Ideally one of their defensive prospects becomes top4 ready asap, and they can package another dman (Martin?) for an upgrade on the wing. How is Morrow turning pro already? doesnt he have 1 year junior eligibility left? - Rollie1967 Mon, 13 Aug 2012 09:21:30 +0100 http://hockey.dobbersports.com/index.php/russ-miller/4830-offseason-game-plan-pittsburgh-penguins#comment-22154 Niskanen took a big step forward last season. I believe the Pens think he's ready to take on top 4 duties. IMO, their pursuit of Suter was less of an indictment of the current top 4 (Orpik, Letang, Martin, Niskanen) and more about adding a high caliber player that doesn't come along often. Rumor also was that Martin was being shopped in the event Suter did sign. The other issue on the blueline is that they have 4-5 waiver eligible guys competing for the 5-6-7 spots. Engelland and Lovejoy are the incumbents, along with Strait and Robert Bortuzzo. Bortuzzo also got a brief look last season, but missed time due to a concussion. The missed time is probably why he's overlooked, but he was an AHL all-star the season before. Pens might end up carrying 8 defensemen to start if a trade can't be worked out. Not an ideal situation, but neither is losing a decent prospect on waivers. Up front, I don't see how Crosby and Dupuis aren't kept together. Wouldn't be surprised if Kunitz was put back there as 87 was dominating with those two before his concussion troubles. Whether that happens, or he's kept with Malkin and Neal, there's an opening in the top 6 for sure. I'd like to see Tangradi or Jeffrey get and extended look there (at least 10 games) because it's getting to the point where you need to know what you have in those two. Kennedy is a fine third liner, but I don't think he's ever going to be more than that. Given past history, he's probably going to get the first crack though. The Penguins will also be at the 50 man reserve limit according to capgeek once their remaining RFAs sign. All were qualified, though I am unclear if the QO actually counts towards that limit. - netwolf Mon, 13 Aug 2012 08:27:42 +0100