Today, we are two-thirds of the way there.
The Penguins announced this morning that they have officially signed center Eric Fehr to a three-year, six million dollar deal. The 29-year-old will have an AAV of two million dollars over the life of the contract.
I guess I am not as stupid as I look.
I thought this would be a great move for the Penguins moving forward. Fehr is an experienced, right handed center who plays a physical game but can post some points. He can produce with both grinders and superstars, I like that. Fehr plays a physical game, but he doesn't take penalties, I like that too. Frankly, there isn't much to dislike about Eric Fehr.
Fehr has played 10 years in the NHL, the majority with the Washington Capitals. He has scored 89 goals and 177 points in his 10 year career, including 19 goals and 33 points for the Caps last season.
Where Fehr Fits
Eric Fehr underwent elbow surgery on June 3, which explains why he was not signed until today (July 28). He is expected to make a full recovery, and was slated to be out 4-6 months. That puts him back on the ice somewhere around November, maybe December to be safe. GMJR stated in a press conference today that he is comfortable with where Fehr's recovery is and what the doctors have said, which is why they pulled the trigger on the deal.
Even if Fehr is out until Christmas, this is still a great deal for the Penguins for several reasons.
First, it gives the Penguins great depth at center. A team that will throw Crosby, Malkin, Bonino, Fehr and Sundqvist as a back up is pretty solid. Even the haters will admit that.
Secondly, Fehr is a good-two way player, and will replace Brandon Sutter on the penalty kill.
Next, he is the perfect fourth line center for this team. He will provide the Penguins with another line capable of scoring and should help young guys like Beau Bennett find their touch.
Finally, he is a great locker room guy. DK on Pittsburgh Sports Josh Yohe wrote about how former Penguin and current Capital, Brooks Orpik, raved about Fehr in the Capitals locker room. He will be a great fit in the room.
So where exactly does Fehr fit?
I would expect since he will miss the first month-six weeks of the season, the Pens will give Oskar Sundqvist a shot at fourth line center so he can get his feet wet. I think it would be a smart move to see what they have in Sundqvist. If he produces, then you let him stay on the fourth line either at center or wing when Fehr returns.
Fehr on the other hand, would best fit at fourth line center. I know some would like to see him on the 3rd line with Dupuis and Perron/Kunitz, but I think that spot is more suited to Nick Bonino, also acquired today (http://bigdavespenspregame.weebly.com/blog/blockbuster-pt-2-bonino-to-the-burgh).
Fehr will provide stability at on the fourth line and also on the Pens penalty kill that just lost Sutter. I expect Fehr to work well there and maybe even see some time on the second power play unit.
I think this is the final move for the Penguins. Maybe they add one more piece between now and camp, but I think they are ready to go for the 2015-16 season. I am excited to see this team get on the ice at camp. It's going to be a fun team to watch.