Jason Mackey: Hi folks. Welcome to our trade deadline chat. Matt Vensel, Sean Gentille and I will be here until 3 p.m. to answer all of your questions ... or as many as we can. Have a couple things to do before noon. But if you wanna ask something now, feel free. We'll be logged on shortly to answer. Thanks, Mackey.
MA: I’m sure you will get a million of these but are there any whispers as to how serious Dumo and Tangers injuries are ?
Jason Mackey: Well, Dumo is a concussion. Sullivan told us that Saturday. Here's what I know on Letang: Been asking around if it's a neck issue, seeing if someone would tell me that's wrong. That isn't happened. Thus, that's my suspicion. But I don't feel comfortable saying that's exactly what it is. Just presenting to you what happened to me.
Adam: Obviously the Pens need to add a defenseman with three of their top four out of the lineup. Who might be the likely targets?
Jason Mackey: I thought Adam McQuaid would be a guy who might make sense, but I was told this morning there hasn't been any sort of connection there, at least not yet. It would probably be impossible, but I'm also curious of someone like Justin Faulk in Carolina. Hearing Canes would move out a defenseman. I know Rutherford likes him. Money would be tough. And also, nobody around the Penguins will overtly say "we're targeting this guy." This is who I think might work.
Sean Gentille: Good afternoon, friends.
Something to remember, from Craig Custance of The Athletic. "Double checked to make sure. There's no limit or rule on how far out into the future a team can trade a draft pick."
Move those 2025 first-rounders, baby! LET'S GET NUTS
Guest: Do you think the penguins will trade Dominik Simon or Tristan Jarry
Jason Mackey: I don't think they will move Jarry. Too tough with Murray, injuries, etc. Plus, I wonder if there's even a market; if teams were clamoring, I think it would have happened by now. As for Simon, I don't think they would be against it. But the dude has three goals in 36 games or something like that. Other teams aren't stupid ... well most of them, anyway. I don't think he's going to net Mark Stone, if you know what I mean.
mustardbased: 60 (mostly healthy) games in and the Penguins are not even a playoff team. Why should they be considering anything other than deals that prepare them for next year?
Rich: Is Ferland still an option? Obviously the Canes probably don't want to deal with Pittsburgh because of how close both teams are in the standings. But is there still a chance?
Jason Mackey: I don't know if they would completely kill the deal, but it has to make Carolina think long and hard about it. As such, I'm also hearing Carolina is standing firm on its demands -- which are high. Given the Penguins' other needs, I have a tough time seeing it happen.
Guest: Are there actually any good options for the Pens with what the Pens can offer (outside of the first that I’d rather we not trade)?
Matt Vensel: mustardbased, I think that's certainly a reasonable way of thinking. The Penguins have already made a few trades this season, turning over about a third of their roster. And they gave up three draft picks to get Bjugstad/unload Brassard. Perhaps the best course of action is to just let this group sink or swim, maybe with a minor move to add some depth on D, and save your assets for an offseason of signficant change if the Penguins miss the playoffs or exit early.
Jason Mackey: There are some ... but not many. To do something even remotely impactful, the Penguins are going to have to send some dollars out -- forget the first-round pick. That would require someone to want Tanner Pearson, in my opinion. Could be tough.
Adam: With Murray playing so unpredictably, do you think Rutherford is thinking about adding a goalie like Howard it Ryan Miller?
Jason Mackey: No, I don't. I think you risk screwing up Murray, one. Two, are these guys really an upgrade? Howard hasn't done anything meaningful in the playoffs in, what, six years? Miller is 38. A month ago, Murray had won nine in a row while allowing a total of 14 goals. It's in there. Just gotta pull it out. Also, I asked Rutherford this question last Wednesday verbatim. His answer: "Who’s got better numbers that Casey DeSmith?" I responded not many among available and reasonable guys. "Not many people," Rutherford said. "OK, move on."
Sean Gentille: Also, Jimmy Howard has a $5+ million cap hit.
Jeffry Yancoskie: What is best for this team right now? A trade or better play from the players we have?
Jason Mackey: Better play from the players the Penguins have. And for some good health on the back end.
Sean Gentille: Which is the exact thought process that led to the Red Wings' current predicament (they stink [terribly])
Cameron: What move (if any) do you think GMJR will make before the deadline? Perhaps a decent D man who can put up a point once in a while on a good contract without much term in Merrill from Vegas?
Sean Gentille: Big news out of Columbus ... Ryan Dzingel will play tomorrow against the Penguins.
Jason Mackey: Cameron: I think that's a reasonable thing to do -- the move, not necessarily Merrill. Wouldn't have anything the player, but I have a tough time seeing Vegas do that.
Jason Mackey: Sean Gentille: Columbus inserting its Dzingel into the lineup. Smart move.
Jim Rutherford: Do you guys love Jack Johnson? I need to know.
Jason Mackey: I have nothing against Jack Johnson, even though it seems like you think I/we do. If he's on the third pair, I don't see an issue.
Ryan S: Is there a scenario where the Pens would consider being sellers this year? Thanks
Jason Mackey: The only thing I can think of is Pearson. If someone would want him, I think the Penguins could use the cap relief. Could free them up to do something else.
Guest: With how inconsistent our goal tending has been do we not try for a veteran goalie ?
Sean Gentille: Ah yes, Tanner Pearson.
Jason Mackey: I got this one earlier. I don't think it makes a lot of sense. You risk insulting your starter, and what sort of legitimate upgrade is out there? Shoot, even Bobrovsky. Do you want him come playoff time over Murray?
Brad : With the price of Johansson being a 2nd, do you think the Pens overpaid for Bjugstad and McCann? Sure seems like Johansson would have been a better fit.
Jason Mackey: One, that's lower than what I heard Jersey wanted. I had heard a first and a prospect. Two, I think they're different deals ... tough to compare to one another. I also think it's too early to say whether McCann and Bjugstad are a fit or they're not a fit.
Lonnie from Nashville: Do you think we'll hear about the extent of Letang's injury before the deadline? Or would we know only through whether or not they add a D man?
Sean Gentille: Not really an answer, but moving forward, I think I'd rather have McCann on my team than Johansson.
Jason Mackey: We'll know from Sullivan after practice, and practice starts at 1. That should be before the deadline. ... I also think if they add a big piece, then that might tell us something. It will be interesting to see if Letang practices today. I don't think he will, but I don't know that for sure. If he does, obviously that changes the deadline approach.
Dan Mucy: Hey guys, thrilled you are ALL around!!! Forgot to ask before.....is anyone worried about Murray long-term? Not much you can do today by 3...but unless he turns it around come playoff time, don't we have a huge problem going forward? I think based on his shaky performances, you CANNOT trade Jarry at this point! Thanks guys... love all your work! Dan
Jason Mackey: Thanks, Dan. I wouldn't say worried. Does it give me reason to think long and hard if I'm GMJR contemplating a contract extension for Murray? Sure. I think you need to look at that and be mindful of all the injuries and such. But worried? I think that's a little too much. I would keep Jarry, at least until the summer.
Drama419: Does it make sense to trade Kessel?
Vito: What are the chances that Murray will be gone after the season is over? With or without making the playoffs?
Matt Vensel: Drama419, I don't think it makes sense to trade Kessel right now, no. It's hard to imagine that the Penguins will get something that is presently better and trading him for future assets would essentially be waving a white flag, which would probably not sit well with Crosby, Malkin, Letang, etc. This seems like something that should be revisited in the offseason.
Jake from DC: This is a hypothetical that I think is interesting. In no way do I want to do it. It would be a catastrophe. If you were forced to trade Crosby, for any one or two players, who would you trade him for?
Jason Mackey: Vito: He's under contract for next season, so ... not very good. I don't see them moving on from Murray. If, say, he flops the rest of the way and they either miss the playoffs or are out early, I think that could create an interesting scenario with a potential contract extension. But honestly, I think we're overreacting here. The Penguins want Murray to stay here. He wants to stay here. He won the Stanley Cup in 2016 and 2017. We should probably relax a little.
2and10: Feels like Pens won't make a move. Really not sure that they can unless they are willing to move players instead of picks
Sean Gentille: Kessel as a deadline deal doesn't make a lot of sense to me. Today is about getting better immediately. Hard to imagine Kessel moving helping with that in any real way.
Matt Vensel: Jake from DC, I would trade Crosby for Anthony Davis and an unprotected 2020 draft pick.
Jason Mackey: 2and10: I hear what you're saying. I think it's entirely possible. But they also might not have a choice depending on how long they're without Dumoulin and Letang.
Jake from DC: I'm gonna be honest, I'm fairly bummed that Hagelin is now with the Caps. It got me thinking, would you take the trade for Pearson back, or do you think it's been ok?
Jason Mackey: Jake from DC: I would take it back; however, in saying that, we're using some 20/20 vision, right? When Pearson was scoring, this trade looked good. And playing him with Malkin a lot of the time, there was reason to believe in the trade. I think it's easier now to look at this thing and hate it now that Pearson has produced next to nothing.
JP: We hear the word "expiration date" used in conjunction with players and coaches. Which Penguin(s) has reached their expiration date and/or who is getting extremely close?
Matt Vensel: I disagree. The Hagelin-Pearson trade gave us the great nickname, "Missing Pearson," so I'd say it was worth giving up Hagelin.
Sean Gentille: "Disappearson" is a more effective nickname. No one denies this.
Jason Mackey: JP: I don't know if "expiration date" is the right term for this, but I think Kessel would fall under this category. Don't accuse me of hating Kessel because that's not what this is about. He's simply not scoring. And if he's not scoring, he's not doing much to help you. Given his age and contract, I think you need to be cognizant of moving on. I don't think now is the time, mind you, but I would certainly listen to offers, especially this summer.
Bill: Odds that JR finds a taker for Pearson and his contract?
Jason Mackey: Bill: Not very good, honestly.
Drama419: IMO Pens aren't winning the cup this year, just too inconsistent, I'd look into trading Pearson, Simon, Hornqvist, Kessel, Maata, too see what value they could get back. Make sense yay or nay?
Jason Mackey: Drama419: A couple things. What sort of value to Pearson and Simon have to other teams? No way I'm trading Hornqvist. He's too important to this team. Kessel? Maybe, but I would do it in the summer. Trade deadline is all about getting better right now. Maatta is hurt. Why would a team needing help on D do that?
Forster: Dumo or Letang at morning practice?
Jason Mackey: Practice got moved to 1. Guys are trickling on the ice now.
FloridaYinzer: Is there anyway we could trade Mike Sullivan's ego before the 3pm deadline? I think that would be the most beneficial move the team can make.
Jason Mackey: FloridaYinzer: Pretty big Sully fan, eh? Curious: What would the return be on something like that?
pittfan: Anything going on with pens?
Matt Vensel: BREAKING: Matt Murray is on the ice for practice. He has not been traded.
Jason Mackey: All quiet at this point.
gozurman: Any rumblings from the Pens about a D-man?
Jason Mackey: gozurman: No rumblings at this point. Things are pretty quiet. Something could be happening, sure, but if it is, word isn't getting out.
Casey: With Letang's injury coming as an unfortunate result of his temper, as well as the recent loss of composure from the coach thrown the captain, how did this team stray so far from the "Just Play" mantra?
Sean Gentille: As a notoriously relaxed, famously chill person, it's a very tough situation for me to relate to.
Jason Mackey: Casey: I think Letang's reaction was natural given the situation. He saw his teammate get blasted. He wanted to defend him. I don't know if that's straying from the "Just Play" mantra.
Tyler: Does Rutherford acquire a D man like he should? Since Dumo and Letang are out. Adam Mcquaid is an intriguing option to me
Sean Gentille: Paying any real amount of assets for Adam McQuaid in 2019 would be a mistake. He maybe plays on a third pairing. Maaaaaybe.
Jason Mackey: Depends on what the Rangers are willing to take back money-wise. He might be one of their only affordable options if they can't move Pearson.
Brittany: Have the penguins shown any interest in anyone? I know they were interested in brandon montour but hes out of the question..
Sean Gentille: If they're up a creek with Letang/Dumoulin and need a body, on paper, they could do worse. Maybe the market for him is soft and the Rangers want to dump him.
Jason Mackey: Brittany: Latest I heard from any source was that it's "been pretty quiet with them." I think it's quiet with everyone right now because a lot of people are at lunch. And yes, this is hockey, I'm being dead serious.
Tyler: If Murray continues to struggle and the Pens miss the playoffs or get bounced in the first round, do they still extend his contract this offseason or will they let next year play out and possibly explore other options?
Sean Gentille: Re: Brandon Montour, he's this year's perfect example of Trade Deadline Name That People Feel Inexplicably Passionate About. He's ... fine. When that move went down, though, Twitter was like two warring factions.
Jason Mackey: Tyler: I think it depends on how it goes. If he plays well but they get bounced, then, yeah, I don't see a reason to do anything. If he's God awful, then sure, I think you at least go into next season saying that Murray needs to show us something before we pay him big money.
Canadian Kevin: Is there any possibility that the Penguins sell any pieces if they know that Letang/Dumo are out longer term? Kind of a retool sort of thing for next year
Jason Mackey: Canadian Kevin: You mean wave the white flag? I don't know about that. Mandate from above is to win now. I could see them standing pat, but I really don't see a scenario where they would sell off assets. That's a little extreme.
Guest: Any truth to Kessel possibly being in play for a trade. If so I think that crazy. In in a slump he is a point per game.
Jason Mackey: Guest: I think they're back in the same situation they were over the summer. They're not overtly looking to move Phil; however, GMJR would not hang up the phone if someone called him with a reasonable offer.
Matt Vensel: The Penguins are taking the ice for practice. Tanner Pearson is among them.
Matt Vensel: No sign of Kris Letang or Brian Dumoulin with practice about to start. It also does not appear that the Penguins have called up a defenseman from WBS.
Matt Vensel: Evgeni Malkin is not here either as the Penguins start their first drill. I don't think we need to worry about him getting traded, though.
Matt Vensel: Here comes Malkin. Must have got caught in traffic.
Casey: I am surprised there hasn't been more about the lack of power play opportunities this season - the Pens are 28th in the league for PP opportunities (167), down from finishing 8th last year. Maybe their games are getting called tighter, as opponents have only gotten 173 opportunities, but what does this team need to do to get back on the penalty train? Are they not forcing the play to the net enough?
Matt Vensel: That's a good observation. I'd say that ties into Mike Sullivan wanting the Penguins to hold onto the puck down low, cycle, tire defenders out and create opportunities that way. No better way to draw a penalty than that.
Dan: Think the Pens could/should get Kunitz for a late round pick? Could be a nice cheap depth forward that can play up and down the lineup
Matt Vensel: Dan, Kunitz was a great player here, but I'm not sure he has anything left in the tank at this point. I do think the Penguins could use a little bit more character in the room. It's a pretty business-like bunch. But I don't know how you quantify the value of that.
Mucker: Any chance of 81 moving today? Or in the summer?
Matt Vensel: I have a hard time seeing anything happen with Phil today, especially since he is currently practicing right in front of me. I think that's something to revisit in the offseason.
Doley: Have the Penguins made a conscious effort to focus more on quality of chances (vs quantity)? They get outshot on a regular basis now.
Matt Vensel: That's been Penguins hockey for the majority of the past two decades. Shot totals are overrated anyway. It's all about the quality of chances, not just throwing the puck at the net. Although, throwing the puck at the net sure worked for the Flyers late in Saturday's game...
Armand : Odds Horny gets dealt?
Jason Mackey: Armand: Not very high at all. He hasn't scored, but it hasn't been because of lack of effort.
depressed pen fan: Hey guys, thanks for having this..looking forward wouldn't it be a better idea for the pens to trade for picks for the upcoming draft and to get ready for next season? it is just not there this season. Some of the favorite teams have or are already loaded up and ready to rock.
Mark : Why are the Penguins so against getting/playing tough rugged hockey players.? Outside of a struggling Patrick Hornqvist, who do they have? Who can they acquire ?
Sean Gentille: I think a better question is "What are the odds Hornqvist is the first captain of the Seattle Hockey Sonics" or whatever they're called.
Jason Mackey: They could try to get Ferland from Carolina, he would fit nicely. But the acquisition cost would be very high ... and maybe prohibitive.
Eddie Shack: word was Pens were interested in Montour, but he went to Sabres. Rumors of Cici, yuck, should they have made a run at Lovejoy in that he knows the system and would slide in with minimal issue?
Matt Vensel: Depressed Pens fan, we talked about this a little bit earlier in the chat, but I don't think you sell any time when you have Crosby and Malkin (and maybe Letang) and you're in the playoff mix. I see the logic in not trying to do anything more, but I don't think you wave a white flag.
Jason Mackey: Eddie Shack: From what I understand, it was an Ian Cole-type situation with Lovejoy. I'm not sure the coach would have much interest in reacquiring him. ... I also think you need to be careful about having Lovejoy and Jack Johnson on the same team.
Sean Gentille: You can pick whichever 6-7 dman you're adding, but it's still a 6-7 dman. Also, be grateful they didn't win the Cody Ceci sweepstakes.
Sean Gentille: Congrats to Teddy Blueger, who just became eligible to play in the AHL postseason.
Sean Gentille: Standard move for young, useful, non-waiver players like him. Philly did it with Carter Hart.
Mucker: In my opinion if 8 and 58 are out long term, Pens should do nothing. What say you?
Sean Gentille: "You're correct."
Sean Gentille: Nothing major, at least. Maybe Josh Jooris, who I'm still not convinced is a real person, is available.
Rahn: My two cents: Sometimes you just have to realize it's not your year. Pull back and re-calibrate and reassess for next season. Even when mostly healthy, the team's inconsistency was glaring and not one trade today can remedy that. Also, you CANNOT trade the first-rounder this season since being in the lottery is a real possibility. Your thoughts, fellas?
Matt Vensel: Extremely reasonable.
Joe: Don't you think it might be time to sell or at least not buy this year? This team doesn't look like a team that is going anywhere
Sean Gentille: My favorite trend this season, btw, is teams top-three protecting their first-round picks ... just in case Winnipeg misses the playoffs, or whatever. So, so terrified to pull an Ottawa. It's understandable.
Jason Mackey: Joe: Time to sell? No. Unless we're talking about Pearson or somebody who's not helping, although I don't know how that would be possible. I can understand standing pat and not doing too much either way. Again, a lot depends on the health of Letang and what sort of needs you identify on the back end.
Frank: Did the Pens bid on Montour?
Sean Gentille: I don't know how the Senators still have fans at this point. God bless those poor people.
Jason Mackey: Frank: They expressed interest. We don't know much more than that. I also try to offer a caveat with instances of expressed interest: GMJR kicks a lot of tires. It's his style. Them expressing interest isn't a huge deal based on precedent.
pozone: Hi Jason what are the chances we add some grit like McQuaid?
Jason Mackey: We're 90 minutes until the deadline, and it's been all quiet on the Western (Pennsylvania) front. It's possible, but it's not terribly likely, at this point.
Mike: Really curious about how NHL referees are evaluated. It seems that they are worse than the NFL refs. You can hate Sully, but you still have a job to do. Do they ever threatened a refs employment?
Peter Kadar: Yes lets bring back Lovejoy every 2 or 3 years.
Jason Mackey: Mike: They are graded game-to-game. As frustrated as I get with officials, due to the fact that they're not available to us, I do think they go through a fairly rigorous evaluation system, believe it or not.
Doley: Are the Pens looking to trade Tanner Pearson?
Sean Gentille: I dunno if anyone else here plays Red Dead Redemption 2, but there's a guy in it named Pearson, and he makes satchels and whatnot out of animal skins. So he's a Tanner. Tanner Pearson.
Gary: Are Jason and Sean against physical play (questions)?
Sean Gentille: I'm definitely not. My favorite hockey players are ones who are physical and skilled. There just aren't a ton of them who are available, and I don't see the point in using assets/roster slots on physical guys who add nothing tangible to the team.
Sean Gentille: Like, I just got into this with my buddy about Zack Kassian. He's not a bad guy to have around, but he's not changing outcomes for you whatsoever.
Greg M.: Don't you think that protecting key players is a "tangible" value?
Sean Gentille: There's ample evidence that having fighters or tougher dudes around doesn't have any effect there.
Sean Gentille: Look at the guys who were around whenever Crosby was getting run every other night. At some point, it ceases to matter. Just try to be as good a hockey team as possible.
JB: You know it's a sloooowwww trade deadline when you guys have to resort to making Tanner look like a Pearson of Interest. I've been saving that for about an hour now.
Sean Gentille: Every year, the deadline gets dumber and worse.
Matt Vensel: Derick Brassard to Colorado. Third team this month.
Kris: Lucic has great hands in Boston but lost them when he went to EDM, any thoughts on him if they retain max on his deal?
Sean Gentille: Lucic is dunzo across the board. Skating was an issue when he was at his peak, and now it's gone.
Jason Mackey: Doley: I don't think they would be against it, but he has, what, one goal in 16 games or something like that? I can't imagine the market is teeming, atthis point.
Sean Gentille: Also, he might legitimately have the worst contract in the sport. It's a trainwreck.
Sean Gentille: Because his bonus structure basically stops EDM from absorbing money to facilitate a trade.
Jeffster: Unrelated to deadline day - will the Pens ever request not to be in outdoor games again? Or, will the NHL stop playing games in the rain? Twice now, the Pens have had a player concussed during a rainy outdoor game.
Sean Gentille: I said this on Twitter as a half-joke on Saturday night, but the more I thought about it, the more I believed it: They should've limited Crosby's shifts in the third period or just flat out not played him. Good lord.
KG: Kessel has looked slow, never engaged in any sort of physicality, when he don’t score he’s basically useless. Is it time for Phil to pack his bags?
Jason Mackey: KG: As we've been saying, I think a Kessel deal would most likely take place in the summer. Would be tough to sell winning now while also trading Phil. Agree that he's looked off, but I think it's more a product of being wrapped around the axle mentally than anything else.
TD: Does anyone else think that Kessel is injured, but does not want to ruin his games played streak? He used to be so much fun to watch and a threat every time he had the puck, but the past how two months he's been below average and extremely lackadaisical...
Matt Vensel: I just imagine Phil packing his bags as him throwing in a couple pairs of boxers, a Foreman grill and a lava lamp or something to that effect.
Jason Mackey: TD: I don't think Phil is injured. We watch him every day. Looks like the same dude. Of course, then in games he looks like a hot mess sometimes. Don't discount how mental this can be for guys. I don't think this is a physical issue with him.
Will: Practice updates? Anyone not skating?
Matt Vensel: No Letang, Dumoulin or Blueger, who has been sent down (at least for now).
ryan: is there a point when GMJR looks at the deadline and goes addition by subtraction with a focus for next year?
Jason Mackey: ryan: I don't think you'll see GMJR subtract anything outside of maybe Pearson or another minor part. Maatta is hurt. Kessel too tough in-season. The marching orders are still to win this season, as they should be. Just maybe try to not do anything stupid along the way.
Dylan: Will the penguins make a move before the deadline
Sean Gentille: Pens Trade Deadline 2k19: "Just maybe try to not do anything stupid along the way."
Jason Mackey: Dylan: This morning, I thought they would. I still think they'll probably add a defenseman. But I can tell you that I've their plans put to me this way: silence.
Matt Vensel: Practice is over, so I'm ducking out to go talk to the players. I'll try not to step on the logo. I'll try to pop back in once we get out there. If not, thanks for joining us, guys. This has been fun.
dave: Lucic has 1 goal in 16 games? Sounds like Kessel.
Sean Gentille: The number of skids he's had like that with EDM is unreal. I get frustration with Kessel, but Lucic is ... wow.
Matt A.: Who would you rather have right now, Hornqvist or Simmonds?
Sean Gentille: Both guys have a ton of miles on their odometers. In a vacuum, like if I were starting a team, I think I'd go Simmonds, but if I were the Penguins, I wouldn't make that trade, if that makes sense.
Jeffster: Colorado got Brassard for a 3rd round pick in 2020. If that's how much his value tanked since last year, I wonder what kind of deal he's going to get in the offseason?
Sean Gentille: If I were Brassard, I'd take a one-year, show-me deal with a team that guaranteed top-six minutes and PP time ... and also try not to think about how much money I'd lost over the last 365 days.
Peter Kadar: Should the Penguins be adding toughness -- We ask this question every year for the past 3 or 4 seasons. Teams that win the cup always seem to have 2 or 3 role players like a Mathew Barnaby or a Cody McLeod of Colorado.
Sean Gentille: The biggest things recent Cup teams have are forwards contributing on entry-level deals. That's the thru-line.
Sean Gentille: Also, the Blue Jackets just picked up Adam McQuaid, per Chris Johnston. So that's that.
Sean Gentille: Every time I see Adam McQuaid, I think of the insane run of injuries he had with the Bruins a few years back. There's more on it here, if that sort of thing interests you: https://www.stanleycupofchowder.com/2014/11/20/7253855/graphic-adam-mc...
Matt A.: Washington very quiet, eh?
Sean Gentille: Hagelin, Jensen ... they did their work already, yeah?
33z: How good is Bjugstad and how good are his hands? Hard to read from watching TV. He didnt compete hard enough on Sat on the 50-50s. Follow on, is McCann the better player, or just seems that way so far?
Sean Gentille: Honestly, McCann, for a bunch of reasons, seemed like the more attractive trade piece when the deal happened. Younger, cheaper, better fit, etc.
Vayinzer: Blue Jackets not even worried about the Pens..gearing up for the Caps...Pens are a non entity this year...the swag is gone..
Sean Gentille: I'll believe the Blue Jackets can win a playoff series when they win a playoff series.
sz in az: Any thoughts on Columbus basically remaking their entire roster?
Sean Gentille: Credit to them, I suppose. They recognized that this was going to be their best chance -- Panarin and Bobrovsky have felt gone for a year now. Might as well give it a whirl with what you have. Also, the possibility to retain Duchene longer term is a nice bet hedge.
Subtlety: I'm envisioning the Blue Jackets looking under couch cushions for spare change to trade for additional players.
Sean Gentille: That feels like part of the "all-in" mentality. Maybe they could use all these guys, maybe not — but there's something to be said for preventing the competition from getting better, even if it'd only be by adding Adam McQuaid.
dave: Why would they send down Blueger? He should be playing instead of Cullen.
Sean Gentille: Seeing this a few different times — it's probably just to keep him eligible for a WB/S playoff run. That said, I also think he should be playing.
Mike: Is it weird that I'm optimistic about Letang since they didn't call anyone up for practice today? I mean Recchi isn't playing defense tomorrow.
Sean Gentille: ...OR SO YOU'D THINK.
Subtlety: Adam McQuaid = 2019 Douglas Murray
Sean Gentille: And yet, he didn't cost the Blue Jackets two second-rounders.
Sean Gentille: Rutherford is gonna talk at 2:45, per Jason
Peter Kadar: The Penguins have been too quiet today -- something serious is brewing....
Sean Gentille: How many of you guys actually think that?
ryan: does the term proactive at the deadline not mean the same thing as it does in the off season as it pertains to retooling?
Sean Gentille: I don't think they're the same thing. Mackey and Vensel have said this, but trading Kessel in June is wholly different than trading him at the deadline. Past is not prologue.
Bob Barbour: If Rutherford is talking at 2:45, then I’m guessing there will be no trades today
Sean Gentille: I wouldn't assume anything until he actually speaks.
Teke27: All their good players for bad players.....
Sean Gentille: That's how it works, baby. Throw in a fifth-round pick with all your bad players, while you're at it.
Matt A.: Is Jarry progressing in WBS? Is he worth bringing up again, or time to move on?
Sean Gentille: I don't think those should be the only choices. He's at .912 this season, which is pretty meh in both directions.
Sean Gentille: I definitely don't see the point in starting him, or putting him on a backup's schedule, and I dunno how much value he could have, so you might as well hold.
Peter Kadar: Is GMJR speaking for sure at 2:45 or is that speculation?
Sean Gentille: It is for sure.
Guest: Malkin for Stone..tired of seeing 71 put out effort only when he feels like it.,
Sean Gentille: Removing Malkin from the equation -- Mark Stone is an unbelievable player. If wingers ever truly entered the Selke convo, he'd be at the top. Only thing keeping the Sens afloat. A really, really complete dude. Any team getting him would be lucky as hell.
Kim: I had to laugh at your meh at Jarry's .912 sv %. That's where Murray is at for the season this year and career wise at .916
Sean Gentille: At this point, Murray has been average or worse for as long as he'd been good. It's ... not ideal for them. He's still so young, and has so much great stuff on his resume, but ... yeah.
Sean Gentille: At some point, particularly as a goalie, you are what the numbers say you are.
Peter Kadar: We will difinately see some type of trade today -- this is GMJR old lets pull the trigger on a deal. This guy is the Clint Eastwood of NHL GM's. Hahaha
Sean Gentille: He might be the director version Clint Eastwood of NHL GMs too. Eastwood is notorious for flying through shoots. After one take -- "Yep, that's good, screw it."
Peter Kadar: Can Rutherford speaking be viewed online or on the Penguins app...
Sean Gentille: I'm sure it can be. You can also just follow Mackey/Vensel on Twitter for it. They're in Cranberry ... I'm at my desk.
33z: Is Pearson moveable and, if so, to whom and for what? That is a lot of dead space in the Pens lineup and on the cap
Sean Gentille: Can't speak to that, but I don't know why a team would acquire him AND structure it in a deal that'd make the Penguins better today. Maybe you cut bait if you can, but getting an immediately more-useful piece also seems impossible.
Johnny: Columbus going all in while the Pens stay put doesn't bode confidence for getting 3rd in the division. Although, and even though you can't really try to do it this way, it's probably better to finish as the top WC and play the Isles in the 1st round than playing the Caps in the 1st round. So if the Pens could somehow land in that spot, it would give them the best chance in the 1st round.
Sean Gentille: While we're here — how big are those three games out of six against the Blue Jackets? Can't remember seeing that recently, and it's at a crucial time.
Sean Gentille: Lots of wingers still out there, obviously. Ferland, Simmons, Stone still haven't moved.
John Rosselli: So no movement on Panarin?
Sean Gentille: Doesn't seem like it. And really, why would CBJ move him, at this point? They've already bought a ton. Just roll with him and Bob, see if you can win something and see if they decide to stay.
guest: It doesn't really seem fair the schedule makers gave Pens this outdoor game and 3 against columbus after trade deadline all in our last 20 games
Sean Gentille: You can just as easily flip the script; with a few tweaks, it's the Blue Jackets who have a gripe.
Sean Gentille: Three teams are in the mix for Ferland, per Pierre LeBrun. He's a name the Pens were connected to, though that was before the Panthers deal.
Sean Gentille: Letang will be evaluated day to day, per Sullivan.
Sean Gentille: Neither him nor Dumoulin will play against CBJ tomorrow.
guest: I am starting to think that Botterelli was the brains behind the trades, what trades have panned out since he left?
Sean Gentille: Trades are Rutherford's thing. He's very open about that.
Guest: Bring up Prow
Sean Gentille: Ethan Prow has 15-16 goals for WB/S, right? Might as well see what he brings.
Peter Kadar: Is my undestanding correct -- NHL deals can be announced and hour or two aftter the deadline?
Sean Gentille: If the paperwork is done, the announcement can take a while, for sure. Doesn't happen much, but you'll see it from time to time.
brian: could trevor daily be a reasonable defensive depth pick up for the pens. maybe for peatson
Sean Gentille: Daley, good as he was, has 7 points and putrid possession stats for one of the few worst teams in the league.
Michael: It's Tampa's year. No way they mess it up again this year, do they? If not, then everyone's paying for 2nd this year anyway.
Sean Gentille: Haha man, we've been saying that about Tampa for years. Love their model, love it moving forward, truly impressive top to bottom ... but I'm not giving them a single thing. Also, if this is sarcasm, my apologies.
John Rosselli: Thoughts on Jack Johnson? Our blog site Pensburgh tends to be very negative on him. I thought he was very good in Philly, given the circumstances. I have liked him with Schultz and hope that pair sticks.
Sean Gentille: Hope for the best, I suppose. He's been mediocre-to-bad for his entire career, save for one season, and this season hasn't been any different. He is what he is.
Sean Gentille: I think the negativity surrounding Jackson is mainly fair. The facts are what they are, in my opinion. That's just me.
Matt Vensel: Hey, guys. Popping in to share a quick update. Kris Letang and Brian Dumoulin will not be traveling to Columbus, but Mike Sullivan said they are "day to day," so that's certainly encouraging for the Penguins.
Sean Gentille: Sullivan is saying that it wasn't just a paper transaction for Blueger. Guess he's gonna play some games in the AHL. Sullivan did say he's just a phonecall away, though.
Sean Gentille: Mark Stone to Vegas continues to circulate.
Sean Gentille: Mikael Granlund to the Preds, Kevin Fiala to the Wild.
brian: What do you think of Columbus transactions
Sean Gentille: I think they attempted a ton of on-the-fly improvements but still have a lame-duck goalie who always stinks in the playoffs. Might as well try.
Joeco: Thanks for sharing your perspectives and information from being around the team in these chats. I guess this is where JR makes the big money...tough situation. Do you see the prices in the trade market being at that point were we stand pat? And if so, any help in W-B?
Jason Mackey: Joeco: I think there's a good chance that's what happened. Just wasn't worth it for them to do anything.
Steeler Joe: Am I crazy for thinking the Pens should at least CONSIDER Simmonds? For exactly the kind of thing he brought to that game on Saturday. We're missing that physical presence and scrappiness.
Jason Mackey: Steeler Joe: Based on the Flyers' ask -- a first-round pick and a prospect -- I don't blame the Penguins for steering clear.
The ham. : Do you think that JR will be the GM to retool the pens after the Sid/Geno window closes? I think that once Mario and Burkle decide it time to rebuild, they’ll do it with a new GM.
Jason Mackey: The ham.: I think that's fair, but Crosby and Malkin aren't really showing signs of slowing down, nor are the Penguins looking seriously at a rebuild. By the time that time comes, Rutherford will be in his mid-70s. I think it's OK to step away at that point.
Kevin: Surprised that Riley Sheahan hasn't been moved yet? Will he go before the deadline?
Jason Mackey: Kevin: I am surprised, yes. I don't see what he adds to Florida, honestly. But with just 14 minutes until the deadline, I'd have to think he's staying put.
John Strange: Has there been any benefit from the Penguins early playoff exit last year as far as them seeming fresher?
Jason Mackey: John Strange: You would think so ... but no. Honestly. I have not noticed any tangible benefits. It certainly hasn't helped their consistency.
Peter Kadar: I agree Jack Johnson isnt going to become Paul Coffey or Dave Burrows #4 over the next 3 seasons.
Jason Mackey: Peter Kadar: And they don't need him to be. He's a third-pair defenseman. Granted, he's having to do more now. But if they're deploying him on the third pair, it's not a terrible add. For now.
Sean Gentille: Just realized ... Chris Kunitz ruined the Ottawa Senators.
Sean Gentille: He scored that goal against them a couple years ago, then they full self-destructed.
Ryan Whitney: Chris Kunitz also ruined my life.
Sean Gentille: From Mackey: "Jim Rutherford is a couple minutes late for his press conference. Have to hope Columbus didn't trade for him, too."
Yinzer: Kind of like how the Browns throwing a game ending interception against the Ravens instead of kicking the game winning FG wrecked the Steelers. Had the Browns won, the Antonio Brown saga probably blows over, he plays in the playoff game, and the course of history is greatly altered.
Sean Gentille: So — Mark Stone is apparently going to extend with Vegas, and the Sens got a top-notch D prospect and a second-rounder for him. This has been your Mark Stone update. The chat is about him now.
Sean Gentille: Also, Robert Kraft's court date (first-degree misdemeanor solicitation) is April 24.
Sean Gentille: Caps are done, per WaPo.
Sean Gentille: Canadiens, Coyotes, Red Wings are done, per reports.
Sean Gentille: Canes aren't trading Ferland, per Dreger.
Paul: They could still announce deals after 3pm... You just have to beat the clock by 3pm, correct?
Sean Gentille: Correct.
Scott: glad we kept our first round pick.
Brian: Looks like we will not be making the playoffs and if we do it will be one and done. This team is not good enough as it sits.
Sean Gentille: They're currently in playoff position with a 73 percent chance to stay there.
Peter Kadar: Is GMJR speaking???
Jason Mackey: Supposed to talk at 2:45. We're in the media room waiting. That's all I can tell you.
CJ: Pens 1st round choice this year? Goalie or D man?
Jason Mackey: CJ: I think best player available, honestly. Maybe even a forward, too, after they got Addison last year.
Sean Gentille: Mark Stone is about to make, like $72 million.
Sean Gentille: Wayne Simmonds to Nashville, per LeBrun.
Daniel : Sean, the Pens are out of the playoffs right now, aren't they?
Sean Gentille: Yep, they lose the tiebreaker with Carolina, apparently. Either way, there's no reason to assume anything.
Sean Gentille: Marcus Johansson possibly going from NJD to Boston.
Sean Gentille: Aaron Portzline: "#CBJ may have a minor-league trade coming, but all indications are that they have kept Artemi Panarin through the 3 p.m. deadline"
Sean Gentille: From Mackey: "Penguins do have a move in the Central Registry queue, I'm told. That's why we're waiting."
Sean Gentille: ^^read that
Sean Gentille: Simmonds to the Preds makes a ton of sense -- he's still really good on the PP, and they're horrendous there. Dead last in the league, which I just learned. Knew they were awful but wow.
Sean Gentille: Philly got ... not much for Simmonds. A conditional fourth and Ryan Hartman (who is fine)
Ron: It's 2:53. What did GMJR have to say?
Jason Mackey: Ron, my man. Nothing yet. They have a trade in Central Registry, I'm told. Jim has not yet spoken.
Peter Kadar: This just in -- The Penguins are bringing back Sheahan, Brassardm and Lovejoy back along with Reaves...
Jason Mackey: And Brassard still wouldn't be happy with his role.
Sean Gentille: Funniest guy to bring back ... probably Hainsey
Sean Gentille: Oh, how I'd laugh!
Sean Gentille: lol, there's a fake Mackey account out there making stuff up.
Sean Gentille: D Erik Gudbranson to the Penguins, per Bob McKenzie
Sean Gentille: Erik Gudbranson is maybe the only defenseman more polarizing than Jack Johnson.
Sean Gentille: He was a high draft pick, people like his character and physicality, but his career numbers are very, very bad, and he's been a punchline because of them over the years.
Sean Gentille: That said — Tanner Pearson is the return. He's going to Vancouver.
Sean Gentille: Gudbranson makes $4 million against the cap for two more seasons.
Sean Gentille: This is a move calibrated to drive hockey nerds insane. Kudos to Rutherford there.
Peter Kadar: Erik Gudbranson -- He adds muscle and toughness
Sean Gentille: And a track record of making his teams' performance a lot worse, just by virtue of being on the ice.
Sean Gentille: The debate is going to be the exact same as the one surrounding Johnson. We'll see what happens, I suppose.
Donny: Sounds like just a stop gap fill in who will be #7 (1st one out) if Pens D are healthy.
Sean Gentille: Yeah, but he makes $4 million a year until 2021. That's the issue.
33z: How do we feel about Erik Gudbranson? Is this a poor man's Hainsey or a rich man's Johnson, or d) none of the above
Sean Gentille: Honestly, numbers-wise, he's worse than Jack Johnson. So he's a poor man's Jack Johnson who makes more money.
Steve S: Pick up a guy who is -27??? Strange time to pick up a Gonchar reclamation project!!
Sean Gentille: Like I said, we'll see — in short, he's been AHL level at basically everything, and he's signed for two more years at $4 million.
Sean Gentille: If you think they needed to get out from under Pearson, this accomplishes that ... but they also acquired Pearson a couple months ago.
Jake from DC: I really don't understand this trade...we were trying to trade Pearson to alleviate cap space, but we ended up trading him for...a worse cap hit? Am I right about that?
Sean Gentille: ...you might be.
John: They traded a UFA in hagelin for 2+ years of Gudbransson. haha my goodness
Sean Gentille: That, to me, is the root of the issue here. Saying "Eh, they had to get out of Pearson's contract" is probably true but A) They literally just acquired him and B) Gudbranson's deal is worse, and he's been essentially a bad NHL player his whole career. He fills a need, he's a warm body, blah blah — but those guys don't cost what he costs. Maybe it works out, or maybe Rutherford flips him in the offseason. Hey, that's what happened with Pearson.
Sean Gentille: Anyway, I think we're gonna finish up here at 4. Jason and Matt are writing and I should probably start something like that, myself.
Blake Oakfield: Johnson and Gudbranson will be the worst D pairing in the NHL. Full stop. For over 7 million dollars a year.
Sean Gentille: It's not impossible.
Sean Gentille: Alright, thanks to all of you guys — would've rather had this happen at, like, noon, but so it goes. Jason and Matt will have more up on the site later today.
First Published: February 25, 2019, 3:38 p.m.
Updated: February 25, 2019, 9:48 p.m.
