So what are the Pens likely to do tomorrow for their first pick in the NHL draft? Well, one rumor heard just about everywhere has the club trading the second overall pick to Carolina for last year's third overall pick, defensemen Jack Johnson. From what I hear about Johnson, this would be a steal for the Penguins. Carolina would then use the pick on Jordan Staal.
What if the Pens don't pull the trade (which I think is likely, because Carolina would be dumb to give up Johnson just to have the Staal brothers play together)? Then I'm hoping we'll see the Pens draft Kessel or Staal. Kessel has played some wing along with center, which is something that would benefit the middle-heavy Pens (they have Crosby and Malkin up the middle right now on the top two lines). If for some reason Erik Johnson is sitting there at #2, then it's a no-brainer - the Pens will take Johnson.
From what I've read, none of the top guys are ready for the NHL next season (which is not to say that some teams won't try to bring these guys in early). Look for whoever the Pens pick to crack the roster in 07-08. Let's hope the Pens are in Pittsburgh so we can watch them play then...
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Good to see Staal drafted. I've heard he's bigger than his brother but not as good with the puck. Either way I hope he works out. Anyone know if this kid really has a chance to make the Pens this year, or is he going down to the baby Pens for a year or two?
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