The Pens Need to Make a Move

By: Andrew Callender

After the last two “games” the Pens have played it has become evident that they need to make a move, and quick. With Crosby and Malkin out, and who knows how long Kunitz will be sidelined, the Pens need offensive help. Now there are many options available at the current moment.



R.J Umberger: The Pens have looked at Umberger just about every year he has been in the league, and this could finally be the year they do something about it. The Plum High School grad has been a very decent playoff performer. Which would be a lot of help with Malkin out for the year.

Jason Arnott: A very consistent performer over his 18 year career, and above average center. He could help out down the middle with Crosby out for now, and Malkin out. Only problem is he plays for division rival New Jersey Devils.

Alexei Kovalev: Former Penguin Kovalev has been on the trade block the last couple of years. It always seems as the Pens come up in the talk yearly. He played the best hockey of his career as a member of the Penguins from 1998 to 2003. Now that he’s 37 he has lost a step, but he could help out on the Power Play unit.

Dustin Penner: Standing at 6’4”, Penner is a great candidate for a power forward. He would also help out on the PP unit. Anytime you can put someone of that stature in front of the net it can only help.

Ales Hemsky: A very talented young Right Winger from the Edmonton Oilers would be a fantastic fit. He would fit in very nicely with Sid on the top line and on the top PP. His numbers have been down recently which could make him a bit cheaper than usual.

The issue as usual is who do your want to give up, and who can you afford to give up. The Penguins have a lot of roll players who, as much as the fans don’t want to hear it, could be expendable. Talbot, Kennedy, and Dupuis are just a few. Draft picks are always available, but wasting draft picks on rent a players isn’t always a good choice.

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