Story by Yinzer Crazy Contributor Kuljit Parmar
It’s that time of year again. Now that the Avalanche have won the cup, it’s time to shift our attention to the ever so important 2022 draft class, which has a line-up of star-studded names and elite prospects that can go up, down and all around the first round of the draft. But most importantly, who will the Pens roll with at their pick? Or will they even pick at all?
Coming across quite a few notable names that will be eligible for this year’s draft, it is quite evident that it is not set in stone as to how the selection process will unfold — and that we as analysts and more importantly as fans, are set up for a surprising turn of events.
The most interesting part of this draft class is that the Pens only have a first-round selection, having dealt away their second-round picks and third-round picks, but do have the remaining round 4-7 picks that continue to the end of the draft.
The reason I say interesting is because of the opportunity they might be presented with on how the draft selection unravels and the availability of key players that might be available via trade if the price is right for the deal to be made, as I will explain.
A handful of names are being labeled as the potential top-picks for the Penguins, such as:
Brad Lambert- Center/ Right Wing--6’0, 179 pounds—plays for Pelicans in Finland Liiga
Lane Hutson—Right Defense—USNTDP USHL— 5’8, 148 pounds
Owen Pickering—Left Defense— Swift Current Broncos WHL--- 6’4, 179 pounds
Isaac Howard— Left Wing-- USNTDP Juniors USHL—5’10, 181 pounds
Jimmy Snuggerud—Right Wing—US NTDP—6’1, 179 pounds
I came across these names from notable sources that are legitimate to the league and have credibility. But as to who the player the Pens will select, it's a daunting mystery to say the least.
Hence, the idea of maybe trading the pick for a contract that might bring added depth to scoring for a reasonable amount of money, or maybe trading the pick for a player that might bring a solid two-way game, could be the play for Ron Hextall. Maybe most importantly, a forward that can contribute to the special teams’ aspect in an all-around manner.
My guess is that the team will select a player involved in the draft, but as I said nothing is set in stone, and there is a favourable chance that a deal could be pulled off if they play their cards right.
With certain options looming this upcoming season, as to rumours of goaltender Marc Andre Fleury wanting to comeback to Pittsburgh and the fact that no deals have been made with forward Evgeni Malkin and Defenseman Kris Letang, speculation from another notable source is that management does in fact favor a Letang deal more than a Malkin one. This is due to Malkin wanting more money to remain with the Penguins -- and likely retire with the club.
Overall, the cards are in their hands. At least we know per usual, they won't fold.
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