With NHL free agency on the horizon, the Pittsburgh Penguins face crucial decisions to reshape their roster. General Manager Kyle Dubas has significant cap space, but expectations should be tempered regarding a splashy, big-name signing. Dubas's comments suggest a focus on addressing the team's needs with multiple targeted acquisitions rather than one major deal, particularly on the left side of the defense. Here are four potential free agent targets for the Penguins:
1. Left-Handed Defenseman: The Penguins' most glaring weakness is their lack of depth and skill on the left side of their defense. Currently, the top left-handed defensemen consist of Ryan Graves, Owen Pickering, Ryan Shea, and Vladislav Kolyachonok. The Penguins will likely target a left-shot defenseman via free agency.
2. Anthony Mantha: Anthony Mantha is a potential UFA target for the Penguins. Mantha possesses desirable size (6'5", 234 lbs) and a scoring touch, having recorded multiple 20-goal seasons. Given that he is coming off a one-year "prove-it" contract after missing a significant amount of time due to injury, he may be compelled to accept another one-year deal to re-establish his value. At 30 years old, Mantha would be motivated to perform well in order to secure a more lucrative, multi-year contract in the future.
3. Nick Cousins: Nick Cousins could be a target for the Penguins to improve their bottom-six forwards. Cousins is coming off an injury-riddled season with the Ottawa Senators and will likely have to settle for another one-year contract.
4. Younger Players Seeking Opportunity: Kyle Dubas may target younger players who haven't had significant roles on their previous teams. This strategy aligns with providing opportunities for prospects like Harrison Brunicke, Owen Pickering, Rutger McGroarty, or Ville Koivunen to gain NHL experience. Alternatively, the Penguins might offer a one-year deal to a player who struggled the previous year, similar to Matt Grzelcyk. This approach allows the player to improve their play and potentially earn a more lucrative contract in the offseason, or the Penguins could trade them for draft capital.
