Sunday, June 15, 2008

Fleury news

The Penguins have filed for arbitration with Marc-Andre Fleury. This means Fleury is back next season no matter what, and best of all it keeps any other GM from signing him to an offer sheet potentially stealing him away.

He's also seeking a long term deal:

"The talks are at a very preliminary basis," [Fleury's agent Allan] Walsh said. "We're identifying terms and we're identifying a framework to work from. We have not exchanged numbers in any detail. What has been made very clear from both sides is that we both want to work out a long-term deal."

And it seems that various sources in the Pens organization are reporting that Hossa is their #1 priority:

The Penguins have made signing right wing Marian Hossa to a long-term contract their No. 1 priority, according to several players, agents and team officials who spoke to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review on the condition of anonymity.

And one more bit of good news regarding Brooks Orpik from the same article:

Orpik, praised by team officials and coaches and opponents during the Penguins' playoff run, told the Penguins he would accept less than market value for a deal of at least five seasons. Several agents speculate he will command above $4 million annually on the open market.

Seems these guys really do want to play for a winner. In other words, do not expect Ryan Malone to be back. Rumor is his agent isn't even returning calls.

Nothing else on the rumor front. We'll keep you posted. -Nick

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