As much as its a cap dump trade... I don't like the fact that two prospects also went out. I think a 1st round pick at least.
A first rounder for two midrange prospects? There are no Yakupovs or Subbans in the trade. Miller I had gotten as a throw in last minute extra negotiation in another trade, and Telegin was a 4th round pick in 2010 who is listed as a 6.5C by Hockey's Future, far, far from a bluechip prospect!! And you think a first rounder is needed????
As for Jovo, he had 13 points in 66 games for a dynamite Panthers team after a mere 14 the season before in Phoenix. Stick a fork in him, the 36 year old is done. I had high hopes of a resurgence in his career in Florida and it just didn't happen. Some of you thought my offering 2.5 per for Corvo in UFA was shocking, how about carrying Jovo at 3.5!! Someone could be optimistic about Jovo, but I am certainly not. He had his chance.
Niitymaki is not even an NHLer anymore, with gaud awful stats at lower levels, his 2.0 salary is a good riddance.
Gionta ought to get 30-35 points, perhaps more, if he's healthy, but at 5.0 for each of the next two seasons he ain't no bargain! What kind of team places much value on the vet? I have been shopping him in PM offers for weeks! with no interest whatsoever until Pitts, who needs bodies and salaries on an underdeveloped pro line-up. (Will someone out there give me a first rounder for Gionta? A 2nd rounder even? Step up boys!)
My Sabres are improved because of my plan to dump these three underperforming salaries and replace them with more optimistic performers through free agency. With this trade with the Pens, mission accomplished, the off season has been a success.
It's a win-win trade.