Dan’s Daily: Penguins Trade Block, Red Wings Charging

In three hours, one team fell short in their attempt to get closer to the Pittsburgh Penguins, and another surprise underdog took full advantage. The Detroit Red Wings both moved close to the Penguins and helped them by beating the Washington Capitals. Sources told Hockey Now about the Penguins’ trade potential, while Ryan O’Reilly knocked a pair of goals in 37 seconds. And Timo Meier mania is sweeping Canada after the Winnipeg Jets were linked to the Sharks winger, who is at the height of his powers.

We’re a little or a lot late today. I’d like to thank everyone. Perhaps I’m reaching the point in my career where I’ve weeded out the insane people who hate everyone. The discussion after our Penguins trade scoop was mature and inquisitive. As a full confession, I hate when we get those stories because it used to open the door for a lot of nonsense.

Pittsburgh Penguins / Steelers, Pirates (Sports Now Group)

PHN+: Dave Molinari opined how the Penguins could jumpstart Jeff Carter.

According to a Western Conference team exec, the Penguins’ second-highest-paid player is quietly on the NHL trade block. Penguins defenseman Jeff Petry is available.

Before the Penguins trade story, this was the must-read — I spoke with Jason Zucker and several players. Zucker’s quotes really hit home as he called out the team’s motivation in certain situations. Check it out–the Pittsburgh Penguins are shaken.

Pittsburgh Baseball Now:

PBN+: The offseason plan is already paying dividends for the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Two good reasons to keep pitching for Tyler Chatwood.

NHL Trade Talk, News & National Hockey Now:

Detroit Hockey Now: Guess who is one point behind the Penguins with the same number of games played? And who beat the Capitals on Tuesday? The Detroit Red Wings.

Washington Hockey Now: It’s now a five-game losing streak. However, today, Alex Ovechkin returned.

TSN: Will the Washington Capitals become sellers?

32 Thoughts: A check-in on every team ahead of the NHL trade deadline.

NYI Hockey Now: Why moving Semyon Varlamov isn’t the top priority for the New York Islanders.

Calgary Hockey Now: The Calgary Flames are thought to be buyers, but should they really be buying?

San Jose Hockey Now: Two first-rounders for Timo Meier?