Post-Game Talk: Pens need some Buffalo sauce for these Wings

[Ryder71]

It depends on the depth of the draft classes. If they're finishing in a similar spot in both years and if this is the weaker draft of the two, it's better to hand over this one. Plus picks in years down the line is better than right now in our situation, for the reasons I talked about. They need to rise to the NHL level at the right time, when the team is ready.

Maybe a little better. Could be worse as well though. What if Sid falls off? Malkin's likely to only get worse. Letang too.
Regardless, there's way too weak of a foundation here to go deep in the playoffs. Next year will be much like this one, in that they're wasting time for the sake of feelings and ownership being unwilling to rebuild. The only thing they really accomplished this season is getting prospects for Guentzel.

As in playoffs? That's super optimistic imo. They would have to be making serious strides in that direction right now, and they're not.
Hard to see a solid foundation being ready in 4 years. We have almost nothing in the cupboards. I don't like the math for 2028. Wouldn't be surprised if we don't see playoffs for a decade, starting from here.

If they get a top 10 pick this year and acrrue more assets via college free agency and build through the draft. we're also gonna get either two high 2hds this year or a late 1st AND a 2hd.

Along with guys like Yager, Blomqvist, Koivunen and maybe Pickering, there are some pieces there. They just need to hit on draft picks over the next couple of years. Seeing good things about Iylin also. Hopefully a few of these guys pan out. But at least it's a start. In addition with guys on cheaper contracts you can get some high priced players in free agency.