Are they the contenders who half a decade ago went to the Final in back to back seasons and captured a Stanley Cup or are they one of the easiest teams to game plan against in years leading to early exits and playoff disappointments?
They have plenty of firepower up front...or at least it would appear that way...and their defense is young and could be better than people thought they'd be, but they still need time to develop a solid backend...
They have a goalie who can be very good....but who also has a tendency to be able to stop the impossible shot but come up short on the kinds of momentum goals which can turn a game, a series, even a season.
However you look at this group something is wrong....and Malkin himself admitted as much over the weekend...when he spoke of how the team isn't playng hard enough and is mad at each other...
You can debate almost every aspect of the Penguins save one...They have two LEGIT #1 NHL centers. Crosby and Malkin are both in the top ten among centers and talent....Crosby is the #1 guy and I don't believe has suffered at all personally having Malkin behind him....Malkin on the other hand....could be a luxury item for a team with so many other holes.
#87 will not be moved. That is obvious and unless we see another "Gretzky like surprise trade" Sid is going to stay in Western PA. Malkin on the other hand...it might be time to consider.
The Penguins could get back a #1 D-man, a top 3 forward, a d-prospect, and more...You have to at least consider that.
There aren't many teams able to be even in the conversation given the price to acquire and the cap hit he brings with him....
Possible spots:
Nashville: Is Shea Weber for Evgeni Malkin a good deal for both sides? There are fascinating arguments to be made that both teams would get instantly better.
Tampa: How about Stamkos for Malkin? It doesn't get you your d-man though unless the Penguins could somehow sweeten the pot.
Washington: Hard to imagine these teams trading with each other, but as Russ Cohen points out the Caps have Carlson and more talent to throw in...and the potential of putting Malkin and Ovechkin together.
St Louis: The Blues have defensive depth in Shattenkirk and plenty of other prospects....
San Jose: Does Brent Burns + Patrick Marleau get Malkin? Should they consider it?
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