Letang Tumbling

Like it or not, this past weekend has brought nothing more than tumultuous conjecture with regards to the Penguins and Kris Letang. There have been a multitude of reports stating that Letang has signed an 8-year deal, worth approximately $7.25 million per. We enjoyed the better portion of our Sunday doing one of two things: 1. Basking in Ray Shero's ability to lock up yet another young star player -or- 2. Speculating with regard to Shero's manipulation of Letang under the current CBA.

So, what's REALLY going on with Letang? Well, obviously Letang's negotiations have taken on (at least in his camp) the importance of Crosby or Malkin. I'm hearing that in addition to the slight bump in salary, a big stumbling block is the lack of a "no-movement" clause. Further, it's being reported by at least one Pittsburgh radio station that Letang is asking for a verbal "We won't trade you as soon as we sign this new deal" gentleman's agreement.

Truthfully, I find it remarkable that Shero has given Letang a revised offer to the tune of the salary increase. Based on what we saw with Jordan Staal, I'd admittedly considered Shero a "one and done" type of contract wrangler. We are ALL aware of the cap implications which come with a two-superstar nucleus. The majority of Pittsburgh sports media is speculating that they'll use whatever contract they sign Letang to as a "perk" for their potential trade partner. (Think cost certainty - if Pittsburgh signs him to a contract, it has to be one that will be very reasonable or "hometown discount-esque". Then he becomes more attractive as a trade target since the cost associated with Letang becomes less than the market price.)

My gut is still telling me that Letang will be traded. Since the draft has come and gone, I'm expecting this decision closer to August. When push comes to shove, Shero won't tie up THAT much money for THAT long. We aren't the Philadelphia Flyers. Logic trumps desperation. And in that same light, Shero and the Pens will make every effort to ensure that wherever Letang goes, he'll be happy playing there. While the Pens may not technically "owe" Letang anything, I fully expect the sentiment of the Jordan Staal trade to be echoed in the inevitable Letang trade. Shero will place him somewhere he wants to play, and will net a good haul in return. The part will be disappointing, but mutual. Like I said before, we aren't the Philadelphia Flyers...