Was always a tough spot for Kyle Dubas to rebuild while trying to win for the core three
Josh Yohe of The Athletic: (mailbag) Pittsburgh Penguins GM Kyle Dubas may be doing too good of job and the Penguins may not get to point where they bottom out, which could be a problem down the road. Top talent gets drafted in the top-five, and it’s harder to land them if you’re picking down in the draft.
The Penguins aren’t in a position where they could be looking to send out offer sheets that might cost them two to four first-round picks as they’re still in a building stage. Division rivals Philadelphia Flyers and Washington Capitals were in a better position to be aggressive this offseason. Dubas admitted at the trade draft that he was trying to take some big swings, but they didn’t work out.
It’s not an easy task of trying to rebuild around Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang, while trying to win at the same time. It’s hard to find their next superstar this way.
NHL Rumors: Sabres, Jets, and the Flyers
St. Louis Blues notes
Jeremy Rutherford of The Athletic: (mailbag) St. Louis Blues GM Alex Steen will likely prioritize creating and maintaining culture within the dressing room. Don’t think that the Blues are looking to make any more front office moves.
Blues forward Robert Thomas said he’s moved past all the trade rumors, has had good talks with Steen, and wants to remain in St. Louis.
Part of the reason the Blues didn’t trade goaltender Jordan Binnington this offseason was that he’ll be hungry entering the final year of his contract.
Forward Pavel Buchnevich is 31-years old and has five years left on his contract (at $8 million). It would be a shock if the Blues were able to move his contract at the deadline.
Tom Willander should be too high a price for Shane Wright for the Canucks
The Blues continue to have interest in Carolina Hurricanes 24-year-old, RFA defenseman Alexander Nikishin, but only if the price is right. Toronto Maple Leafs Matthew Knies is another player the Blues have likely checked in on and the price is really high. He’s not a difference-maker that you give up multiple quality assets for.
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