Michael Bunting Fits Penguins Needs but Not Worth Price
The Pittsburgh Penguins could use a guy like Michael Bunting, but won't want to pay that price.
With the turn of the calendar year means the time for trade speculation, rumors, and proposals is here and the Pittsburgh Penguins could use some help in certain areas.
It’s been previously reported that the Penguins are looking into defenseman, but maybe a forward could catch their eyes.
According to Elliotte Friedman, the Carolina Hurricanes have been asked about Michael Bunting as they search for help between the pipes.
Bunting is a player, that would fit perfectly in the Penguins lineup in more ways than one, and has familiarity with a key figure in Pittsburgh.
Friedman noted that teams have asked the Hurricanes about Bunting, and he wondered about the Penguins since president and general manager Kyle Dubas shared a team for multiple seasons.
Bunting signed a two-year deal with the Toronto Maple Leafs heading into the 2021-22 season and performed extremely well under Dubas’ regime.
Even now, with the Hurricanes, Bunting is having a great season with 26 points (9G-17A) in 37 games and is more than just a piece on offense.
Bunting has never been afraid to play a physical style piling 85 hits in each of his two season with the Maple Leafs.
With the Hurricanes, he hasn’t been as much of a physical presence, but that aggression could be brought back in Pittsburgh.
While Bunting fits exactly what the Penguins need and has a history with Dubas, the Penguins likely don’t want to pay the price Carolina is looking for.
It’s being widely reported that the Hurricanes are looking for goaltending, and the Penguins shouldn’t step foot into that ring.
The Penguins have gotten outstanding play from their current duo of Tristan Jarry and Alex Nedeljkovic and are a huge reason for the resurgence in the standings.
Even behind them is Magnus Hellberg who has stood tall as the third option; the Penguins like their goalies and shouldn’t look to ship one out.
Jarry is likely locked in with his new contract and Nedeljkovic has played outstanding in a resurgent season.
The Penguins have a one-two punch that can give them a chance to win each and every night.
Bunting would be a great fit and a nice addition, but they have too much going for them between the pipes to lose a goalie.
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