While I hate the thought of potentially giving SJ a top 5 pick I don't think there's a huge chance of that next year unless there's injuries. I think at worst you see the Pens finish similarly to where they will this year which would give SJ like a 3-6% chance at a lottery pick from the Pens. Not ideal I guess but not the end of the world if they hit on the pick they make this year.
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.
And I think the Pens could do quite a bit better than they have this year with the right moves this summer. Unfortunately those right moves include firing Sully which I don't think happens.
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 far as '28 or '29 I think before then we'll have our act together. Well, '28 maybe.
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.