The Pittsburgh Penguins have made a move to bolster their goaltending position, signing Alex Nedeljkovic to a new two-year contract to keep him from becoming a free agent. We bring you the details and, more importantly, the full analysis. The Penguins were on the shortlist of teams where Patrick Laine would be a good fit, but Columbus Blue Jackets president of hockey operations and general manager Don Waddell explained the process and delays that led to a Laine trade happening. The last goaltender remaining on the NHL trade market is Linus Ullmark, and the debate is on as to who is feeling the pressure ahead of Game 6 of the Stanley Cup Finals.
It's hot and we're all stuck at home, so here's a quick movie recommendation. On Thursday, between all the Penguins and news, I watched the movie “Unfrosted” on Netflix. It stars Jerry Seinfeld, Melissa McCarthy, Jim Gaffigan, and a star-studded cast. I was expecting something silly in the background, but it was a surprisingly simple comedy about early 1960s serial warfare that worked. It was good old-fashioned Seinfeld and had me laughing my head off.
Now, if anyone knows of any small towns a few hours south, I'd love to hear about them, because I'll have to start exploring in that direction – not too close. In the north, I think I've been to every small town on Route 6 from Meadville to Tioga. In the south, Harpers Ferry is on the list (but don't put any Ohio cities on it – Ohio is flat and the roads are straight – not fun!).
Pittsburgh Penguins
Pittsburgh Hockey Now: We asked draft and prospect expert Russ Cohen a quick question: Who are the three targets the Penguins should be selecting with overall picks 44 and 46? Russ named three draft prospects, including a very large center who could be the Penguins' primary draft target.
And then, out of the blue, the news came. There was no warning, no hint. Here are the details and analysis after the Penguins signed Alex Nedeljkovic to a two-year contract.
You can also watch our YouTube channel for some quick analysis of the whole situation, including the Tristan Jarry trade talk and Joel Blomqvist. Full coverage. Penguins analysis from every angle.
Tonight is Game 6 of the Stanley Cup Finals, and our top sports betting writers have prepared a list of Connor McDavid prop bets and enticing betting promotions.
Pittsburgh Baseball Now (+): Calling all subscribers, Luis Robert Jr. The Pittsburgh Pirates definitely need him, but he has his downsides. Here's a full look at the Pirates' trade targets.
NHL Trade Talk, News, National Hockey Now
Boston Hockey Now: Cheers, Linus Ullmark. Goaltender-poor teams are looking at you. Andrew Fantucchio, what? NHL trade rumors have become a haven for big paydayers. With only one big-time goaltender left, who will snatch him away from the Boston Bruins?
Apologies to Paul Simon.
Ottawa Sun: The Senators are reportedly interested in Ullmark, but according to Bruce Garioch, the price isn't cheap: It's the high price you'd pay for Jakob Chychrun … and more.
Sportsnet: A Patrick Laine trade will happen, but not right now. Waddell explained that he wants a “hockey trade,” but Laine has not yet been approved by the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program and the team would like to talk to Laine once that is approved.
But as that process begins, it appears Pittsburgh Hockey Now isn't the only one who thinks Laine would be a good fit for the Penguins, as Sportsnet's final list includes the Penguins and seven other teams.
Philly Hockey Now: GM Daniel Briere held court Thursday and one of the main conclusions was that the NHL is involved but has not made a decision on how teams should handle five members of the Canadian national team who will face sexual assault charges in a Canadian court. The Philadelphia Flyers are waiting in the wings.
TSN: Anthony Mantha said he will become a free agent on July 1 after the Vegas Golden Knights told him he won't be able to return to the team next season.
Mantha is an interesting case. Did he finally figure it out, or was he playing off his game because his contract was up? I would sign him on a one or two year deal if you could get a big discount. Maybe a team finds a diamond in the rough in a UFA.
Florida Hockey Now: Enough is enough. Who's feeling the pressure? Both teams think the other should. But coach Paul Maurice will be making some changes to the Florida Panthers' lineup tonight.
