NHL: Trade Talk – August 26, 2014
PENNER GOING HOME?
Unrestricted free agent Dustin Penner is still unsigned, and talk for the most part has been very quiet. I have heard a couple of rumblings of possible homes for the big winger, but no real solid prospects. The Montreal Canadiens have been rumored to have interest, and so have the Nashville Predators.
There is a potential spot available for Penner very close to his home. The Winnipeg Jets may just be the perfect fit. The Jets have eight million in cap space, and they could also use his size and experience on the third line. Another interesting fact is that Dustin Penner grew up just hours from Winnipeg in Winkler, Manitoba. I know it just sound convenient (ie the Thomas Vanek to Minnesota) but I think this would be a great last chance for Penner. The Jets would be getting a player with huge upside.
The 31 year old Penner tallied 32 points in 49 games with the Anaheim Ducks before being traded to the Washington Capitals. It was a difficult and trying season for Penner, but potential and experience is on his side.
Penner has played an intrical part in two Stanley Cup Championship teams. His first was in 2007 with the Anaheim Ducks, and his most recent being the 2012 Stanley Cup won with the Los Angeles Kings. Success just seems to follow this guy.
The career of Dustin Penner has had its ups and downs, but you cannot hide the fact that he is a champion. He also is a big body presence, that can score. He has shown many inconsistencies during his regular season play, but his post season success cannot be overlooked.
The Jets have plenty cap space, but could probably sign Penner for a value contract of $1.5 to $2 million dollars per season. A lot would be determined by the term of the contract.
It’s a possible fit that could work well for both sides.
Brad Burud the owner/editor of the Inside Edge Hockey News. I am a huge fan of hockey, from youth hockey, to junior hockey, and of course professional hockey. I have played, coached, worked as statistician, and watched hockey all of my life. Hockey is not just a game, it is a lifestyle and family. The game of hockey is great! It can bring you nights of great enjoyment. It also brings nights where you feel like your team will never win. I am proud to be a journalist for the greatest game in the world. I have a degree in Business Administration, Psychology from Minot State University. I also have a Hockey General Manager and Scouting, and Sports Communications/Journalism degree from Sports Management Worldwide. I am also a member of the Sports Executives Association. Most of all I am a fan. Hockey is a huge part of my life and my families life.