NHL Developments: Penguins Pursue Jack McBain
In recent developments within the NHL, the Pittsburgh Penguins expressed interest in young restricted free agent (RFA) Jack McBain of the Utah Mammoth. However, that pursuit has officially ended as McBain secured his future with the Mammoth on Monday by signing a lucrative five-year extension worth $21.25 million, thereby averting arbitration. This deal, averaging an annual value of $4.25 million, will extend through the conclusion of the 2029-30 NHL season.
McBain’s Performance and Physical Style
The 25-year-old McBain, standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 219 pounds, had an impressive previous season, netting 13 goals and earning a total of 27 points for his team. In addition to his scoring ability, he is known for his physical style, having accumulated 78 penalty minutes, showcasing a propensity for engaging in fights on the ice.
Penguins’ Strategy Moving Forward
Reports surfaced last week from Josh Yohe of The Athletic indicating that the Penguins had targeted McBain as a potential addition, aligning with General Manager and President of Hockey Operations Kyle Dubas‘s commentary that the organization was looking to acquire young RFA talent. With McBain now off the market, the Penguins are likely to pivot towards seeking deals for other restricted free agents from teams facing salary cap constraints, as Dubas noted reluctance to make offer sheets.
“We expect to enhance our roster primarily through trades and by signing players that other teams may not be able to retain under their cap situation,” Dubas highlighted during his recent end-of-season press conference.
He articulated that an increase in salaries during the free agency period could soon limit their available cap space, making it crucial to explore trade options for unattainable restricted free agents.
Potential Targets for the Penguins
Notably, other RFAs who may attract attention from the Penguins include:
- Gabriel Vilardi (Winnipeg Jets)
- Marco Rossi (Minnesota Wild)
- Mason McTavish (Anaheim Ducks)
- Bowen Byram (Buffalo Sabres)
- Mackie Samoskevich (Florida Panthers)
Team Reorganization and Player Departures
Parallel to these moves, the Penguins are also dealing with the potential departure of players like Rickard Rakell, who had a standout season and finds himself amidst trade rumors as the team undergoes a reorganization. Fans and analysts alike are closely monitoring the evolving landscape for the Penguins this off-season.
