Quote:
Originally Posted by wgknestrick
Pens HAVE to be shopping D men now. Bortuzzo, Strait, Martin, Lovejoy, Orpik, Niskannen, Letang, and Engelland all have to go through waivers. You can't have 8 D men for 6 spots. It's pretty obvious that Bortz and Strait are the odd men out, but they have little NHL experience and therefore value.
There aren't enough seats on Pen's D bus. Some will be moved (not named Letang). I'm not even counting the plethera of good D prospects the Pens have behind these guys. Depres is ready for a NHL spot now but can play in the AHL without waivers.
Strait
Bortuzzo
Lovejoy (especially)
Will not pass through waivers.
Martin (very high contract)
Orpik (good value player at perfect trade-able age for the Pens)
Are probably on the block of regulars
Letang is untouchable
Engelland is too good of a value
Niskannen just signed a good value contract
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We currently only have 3 proven top 4 d-men and 2 of them are coming off absolutely terrible seasons. I would be completely shocked if we trade Orpik or Martin before the season starts. That would leave Niskanen, Engelland and rookies fighting for the 2nd pairing spots. Just no way. Mid-season when some of these guys can have a chance to prove themselves sure. Right now? No. Not without bringing in someone else.
And ya, you can have 8 D. Roster limit is 23. 13 F, 8 D, 2 G.