99 Problems
And they all d-men
Shockingly, Ray Shero, Penguins general manager, didn't re-sign any of his unrestricted free agents, including Richard Park, Alexandre Picard, and Steve MacIntyre. He also signed only one restricted free agent, Casey Pierro-Zabotel, to a contract, but Eric Tangradi, Cal O'Reilly, Matt Niskanen, and Boris Valabik were all extended qualifying offers.
CPZ's contract was a two-year, two-way contract worth $680,000 per year. Goaltender Patrick Ehelechner was signed to a three-year contract worth $925,000.
The free-agent market this year, although top-heavy, is loaded with players the Penguins may need in the upcoming season. If the Pens do decide to go with an enforcer, Cam Janssen is on the market and is expected to sign with a team in the Atlantic. A fourth-line centre is also on Shero's list, and Jason Arnott is definitely being looked at there. Beyond the forwards, there are some questions about the defense. With Valabik and Niskanen possibly leaving the team this offseason, who will take their places? Simon Despres and Deryk Engelland are next in line, but some doubt Despres' ability to jump in to the NHL. Mark Fraser is an interesting free agent, but it's unlikely that the Devils will let him go unless adequate compensation is received.