Puljujarvi Price Too Steep, but Corey Perry in Play

Edmonton Oilers forward and 2016 fourth overall selection Jesse Puljujarvi has demanded a trade out of Edmonton or has threatened to play in Europe next season. Earlier this week, the Anaheim Ducks bought out organization stalwart Corey Perry and his $8.625 million salary. Both developments immediately sent fans across the league to Twitter inquiring about the availability for their team and the potentials. Unfortunately for those who enjoy the fun, the Penguins trade rumors will have one less name.

Friday, Pittsburgh Hockey Now was told by a well-placed source in the organization that the Penguins felt the price on Puljujarvi was too high. The name we heard was Bryan Rust, which if accurate, would justify the Penguins quick denial. Rust’s value to the Penguins lineup and 35 points (18g, 17a) in 72 games versus Puljujarvi’s paltry 37 points in 127 career games are not a match. 

Puljujarvi lit up in four AHL games this season under head coach Jay Woodcroft. After again struggling at the NHL level, Pujujarvi played four games and scored four points (2g, 2a). However, he posted only nine points (4g, 5a) in 46 NHL games. Edmonton interim coach Ken Hitchcock pushed the player but did not get results and the player has had enough of the Oil.

Edmonton either values Puljujarvi well more than most or are driving a hard bargain in hopes of finding a team willing to pay for the potential of a fourth overall pick.

Corey Perry is a different situation. PHN was told the team could have an interest in Perry. However, the Penguins cap crunch, the smaller than expected cap, and Perry’s uncertain health make the Penguins buyers only under the right circumstances. In other words, don’t rush out for a Corey Perry Penguins jersey.

But it is noteworthy the Penguins haven’t closed the door on the idea. Perry at the right price would be a later summer signing if the player does not get bigger offers. Perry has been sliding since he scored 34 goals in 2015-16. He scored 17 goals last season and just six goals in 31 games this season. Perry won the 2011 Hart trophy and the Rocket Richard trophy with 50 goals.

Perry and Penguins captain Sidney Crosby were linemates in the 2005 World Junior Championships with Patrice Bergeron. The pair also played together on multiple occasions for Team Canada.

Editors note: The description of the source was changed from organizational to a well-placed source in the organization to clarify the position.