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3 PTO signings Pittsburgh Penguins may consider before preseason starts feat. Nikita Zaitsev
The Pittsburgh Penguins enter this year’s training camp with a roster of talented veterans. However, missing the playoffs for a second consecutive year has created urgency in Steeltown.
The main issue limiting the Penguins’ ability to boost their roster is the franchise's lack of cap space. PuckPedia reports the Pens have just under $900K to spare. GM Kyle Dubas must get creative to round out his team without exceeding the cap ceiling.
That stated, here’s a look at three PTO candidates the Pittsburgh Penguins may consider adding before training camp opens.
3 PTO signings Pittsburgh Penguins may consider before preseason starts
#3: Alexander Barabanov
Barabanov is still a talented winger who could play key minutes in a depth role. At 30, Barabanov is no longer a prospect. But he’s still young enough to develop into a serviceable middle-six winger.
Last season, Barabanov played 46 games with the San Jose Sharks, scoring 13 points. However, his $2.5 million cap hit made him too expensive for the rebuilding Sharks.
A one-year show-me deal could work for Barabanov. If things go well, he could contend for a third-line job with the Pittsburgh Penguins.
#2: Jarred Tinordi
Tinordi is a physical blueliner who doesn’t score much but provides solid defense. At 32, however, there’s little upside to Tinordi.
But given the Pittsburgh Penguins’ aging blue line, Tinordi could provide insurance if veterans Kris Letang or Erik Karlsson go down with injury.
Last season, Tinordi registered nine assists in 52 games with the Chicago Blackhawks. While that offensive production won’t impress anyone, the Pens could use Tinordi on a cheap contract to serve as a seventh defenseman.
#1: Nikita Zaitsev
Speaking of defensive insurance, Zaitsev could be in the mix for a third-pairing spot if he has a great camp. The 32-year-old Russian played the final year of his seven-year deal last season with the Blackhawks.
While Zaitsev only played in 32 games, a change of scenery and his familiarity with Kyle Dubas could help him rebound.
If Zaitsev can't earn a top-six blue-line role, he might be the seventh defenseman. Zaitsev could be an insurance policy for Pittsburgh in case of injury.
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