Christian Ehrhoff
It seems like a good move on the Pens part. With Olli Maatta most likely to start the year on IR, it will allow the Pens to slowly transition guys like Despres, Samuelsson and Dumoulin into full time roles with the big club. Ehrhoff is a two-way defenseman, known for having a booming shot from the point and a powerplay specialist. He will replace Matt Niskanen who took his powerplay talents all the way to the National Treasury with this deal in Washington. It is a fresh start for Ehrhoff, who will look to put his struggles from the Buffalo years behind him and reinvent himself in Pittsburgh.
Marcel Goc
It is one of the best moves that Rutherford made all day. Goc is an excellent defensive forward, typically excelling against the opposing teams best forwards. His penalty killing skills are phenomenal, and the Pens will be glad to have him back. Unlike last season, when he was utterly misused by Dan Bylsma, you can expect Goc to center the 4th line and allow RFA Nick Spaling to play wing either on the 3rd line or 4th. A great move by the Pens, very pleased to have him back for one more season.
Thomas Greiss
It is an interesting signing. I really like Jeff Zatkoff as the backup, but clearly management doesn't trust him enough behind Marc-Andre Fleury. Rutherford stated in his 3pm presser that, "We have a number one goalie and that Zatkoff and Greiss will fight it out for the backup job." Regardless of who wins the spot, it would be better for the Pens in the long run if they can allow Flower a few extra nights off without worry.
Blake Comeau
A great bottom six pickup. His contract is to die for. He will provide stability on the bottom six and should slot in well with Marcel Goc and Craig Adams on the 4th line. If he can find some of the scoring touch he had on the Island, then the deal will be even better. Overall, love the pickup.
Nick Drazenovic and Taylor Chorney
Pens resigned Nick Drazenovic today to a one-year, 550k deal. He played the majority of the season for the WBS Penguins, putting up 13 goals and 42 points for the Baby Pens. He got one game in Pittsburgh and will provide further depth for the forwards. The Pens also signed the son of former Penguin Marc Chorney, Taylor today. The 6'1" defenseman will most likely play in Wilkes-Barre this year, but he will only add further depth to the defensive corps. |