We really won't know until the playoffs if there is any shift of power in the Eastern Conference or not, it's not about winning the Presidents Trophy. There's about 40 games left, and Pittsburgh is just three points out, not 30. And it's not surprising at all to see a back to back Cup winner struggle in this more difficult era to achieve that rare feat. The inevitable departure of talent, injuries, and the toll of so many games adds up. The season is a marathon, not a sprint.
As long as you have a strong organization, your window is open. Management has options, and a track record of success. Matt Murray wasn't a high draft choice, and the recently promoted Daniel Sprong could be a boost to the struggling offense.
It is opinion at this point, true.
But its becoming more and more clear that parity is be8ng passed by.
The Devils, Rangers, Islanders, Toronto and Tampa are all surpassing or in The process of doing so the Penguins.
Yes, management is good in that organization.
No, a rookie RW'er isn't going to magically turn the problems around.
Their core is aging, happens to all clubs, their window is now.
JR is more than aware of this given his "considering a major shake up" comments.
Winning the Cup is what its all about for the Pens right now. They won't be in rebuild for a few more years yet. The current situation leaves either a mini in season retool to go for it, or wait for the off season. It'll be expensive in season for sure, but how bad does management want to continue to strive for it all?
In either case, it's going to be interesting for the organization over the next 2 months.