According to multiple sources, including Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, the Penguins are ready to pursue former Flyers’ forward Mike Knuble “Somewhat aggressively.”
Many believed that after signing Bill Guerin to a one-year, $2 million contact, that the Western Pennsylvania club filled its
quota for a big, front of the net-type guy. However, with Ruslan Fedotenko likely hitting the bricks, the Pens want a second big body in a top-six role. The Penguins have roughly $4-5 million to spend and have yet to retain prized defenseman Rob Scuderi. Knuble is looking for a deal upwards of 2-3 years, for at least $2 million a season, likely more. Knuble made $2.8 million last season and commented to the media that the Flyers wanted him to take a “significant” pay cut and be paid via performance conditions. The Flyers were also only offering a one-year deal.
Keep in mind that Knuble is only a Plan-B if Fedotenko decides to test the market. He may also be just a bargaining chip to Fedotenko’s agent, letting the Fedotenko camp know they have options to lower their price.
Knuble will turn 37 on July 4. He scored 27 goals and 20 assists in 82 games with the Flyers last season.
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