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Morning Hits: Could the Penguins trade Malkin? Should Oilers consider trading No. 7? Landing spots for Luongo
Mark Easson
Darren Dreger: If the Penguins lose in 4 or 5 games, they could have an interesting offseason. Some people think that Evgeni Malkin could become a trade target. Bruce Arthur points out that Malkin had 10 shots last night and was “magnificent” and doesn’t think he’ll be traded. Dreger responds that it’s hard to imagine, but after the cap goes down for next year, it likely won’t be going up the following year that much and it will force the Penguins into a tough decision with Malkin or Kris Letang.
David Staples of the Edmonton Journal: Staples thinks the Oilers should consider trading down from the No. 7 slot in this year’s NHL draft unless they are convinced that they are “seven truly remarkable players” in the draft. There is about a 40% chance of drafting a star to a good consistent 2nd liner when drafting in the 6 to 15 range. There is a 60% at each of those slots that he’ll be just average or a bust. About a 20% chance they turn into “top-line aces.” Staples looked at the players drafted from 1990 to 2009. Staples goes into more detail, it’s worth checking out the piece.
Tony Gallagher of the Vancouver Province: Gallagher looks at nine possible destinations for Roberto Luongo: Flyers, Panthers, Oilers, Capitals, Sabres, Blues, Lightning, Flames and the Wild.