Shockmaster
Registered User
- Sep 11, 2012
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- 3,382
I think there was a thread on this after last season ended, but I didn't feel like digging it up. Looking around at other teams, they use their star players on the PK. Guys like Giroux, Toews, Hossa, Sharp, Nash, Parise, Stamkos, and even an offensive weapon like Kovulchuk spent considerable time on their team's PK. Meanwhile, the Penguins use up roster spots on guys like Adams that prevent younger guys like Jeffrey and Tangradi from getting more playing time. Guys like Cooke and Dupuis, while they're still suitable players, aren't getting any younger.
From what I understand, Malkin is considered an elite PKer when he plays for Russia. Sid, while he hasn't spent much time on the PK in his career, is a very gritty player. He looks like someone that would absolutely thrive on the PK. Both would provide offensive threats on the PK that might make the other team's PP think twice.
I'm guessing the biggest issue is that the Pens fear they could get hurt blocking shots, but a) it's hockey, plently of ways they could get hurt regardless, and b) Sid blocks shots when he has to anyways (took one near the family jewels in Anaheim a few years ago when MAF was out of position).
From what I understand, Malkin is considered an elite PKer when he plays for Russia. Sid, while he hasn't spent much time on the PK in his career, is a very gritty player. He looks like someone that would absolutely thrive on the PK. Both would provide offensive threats on the PK that might make the other team's PP think twice.
I'm guessing the biggest issue is that the Pens fear they could get hurt blocking shots, but a) it's hockey, plently of ways they could get hurt regardless, and b) Sid blocks shots when he has to anyways (took one near the family jewels in Anaheim a few years ago when MAF was out of position).