Dan’s Daily: $20 Million McDavid? Penguins Crucible; Honoring Johnny

The Pittsburgh Penguins won’t have much runway this season, and coaches and management probably won’t get a redo if they don’t get the final roster construction correct. For the first time in franchise history, September and October could determine the team’s fate and an even more significant franchise direction. Also in the Daily, Sportsnet analyzed the 10 years of the NHL Draft, and the Penguins rank surprisingly well based on the strength of two brilliant drafts. Now that Leon Draisaitl is locked down in Edmonton, the talk has turned to Connor McDavid and the incredible contract value he could command.

Our colleague James Nichols in New Jersey got some interesting questions, including some NHL trade chatter around Dawson Mercer and if New Jersey could have a reunion with former Hart Trophy winner Taylor Hall. And finally, fans from all over went to Columbus Wednesday evening to participate in the vigil honoring Johnny Gaudreau. There were even fans wearing Penguins jerseys who made the trip for Johnny Hockey, who was tragically killed last week by a driver who police charged with a DUI and two counts of vehicular homicide after the incident.

Adding even more heartbreak to the situation, yesterday was Guadreau’s third wedding anniversary.

On a happy note, I just realized the NASCAR race at Watkins Glen is the Sunday during the Prospects Challenge. The track isn’t too far from Buffalo. Hmmm.

Pittsburgh Penguins

Pittsburgh Hockey Now: I think everyone peeks at the giveaways and promo nights when they buy tickets. So, here you go–from Halloween to Margaritaville, here’s all of the fun stuff on the Penguins’ schedule.

And here’s the important story. As we put the Penguins season on the drawing board, we began to realize that a lot is riding on training camp and the games in October. In fact, a bad month could have cascading effects with a big fallout. It’s about to get real, and here’s why September and October could define the Penguins season.

PHN Video: We rolled with a live chat Wednesday. Over 1,000 people watched?! We had a good chat about everything from Sidney Crosby’s contract status to prospects and young trade targets. Check out the Penguins Live Chat.

Steelers Now: The NFL season begins today. Derrick Bell lays out five bold predictions for the Steelers season.

Pittsburgh Baseball Now: Wow. We know the Buccos couldn’t hit their way out of a wet paper bag. We know they swing wet noodles. On Wednesday night, the Chicago Cubs starter and two–two?!–relievers no-hit the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Don’t worry. After all the Skenes attendance money they made, I’m sure the Pirates will spend big this winter in free agency to fix their problems.

NHL Trade Talk, News & National Hockey Now

TSN: The Columbus Blue Jackets players, organization, and about 1000 fans honored Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew in a tear-filled vigil. It’s clear in just a couple of seasons what an impact Gaudreau had on the city and team.

Sportsnet: Once upon a time, the Penguins actually drafted players who played in the NHL. Analyzing draft classes from 2010-2019 to get a sense of organizational strength, the Penguins rank in the top five (it’s after 2016 that they have stunk like pickled herring). This was an interesting look.

NJ Hockey Now (+): The subscriber mailbag had some sharp questions about a team that I think will be in the top three in the Metro Division. From trading the rights to Dawson Mercer to hitting the NHL trade market, here’s a good look at the New Jersey Devils.

Edmonton Journal: OK, now that Draisaitl has inked his hefty payday, Edmonton fans can begin the countdown to re-signing Connor McDavid. What is he going to be worth next summer when he’s eligible to re-sign? Jim Matheson lays out a very healthy number, and it is about $20 million, the maximum allowed of the potential salary cap.

McDavid might get that kind of money, but if he does, he will never win a Stanley Cup. Choose wisely. Every time a player sets a new high for contract value, just pour a little out for the tens of millions that Sidney Crosby passed up to remain with the Penguins.

Philly Hockey Now: For you goalie mask lovers, here’s the first look at Ivan Fedotov’s brand-new Philadelphia Flyers mask.

San Jose Hockey Now: Does this sound familiar? No. 1 overall pick Macklin Celebrini will have a landlord who is a former top pick and franchise player. This could be a sitcom–the San Jose Sharks rookie says he’s going to live with Joe Thornton.