The Penguins know they have to make improvements to be legitimately competitive in 2023-24. One area of focus is the goaltending situation. Another area reportedly has the Penguins looking for some help on defense. Specifically, a top four defenseman. Toronto already gift wrapped the Penguins Kyle Dubas. Is a top four defenseman next on the agenda?
Seravalli wonders if Leafs may buy out TJ Brodie this week #DFO
— Tyler, The Curator (@akaRCN) June 19, 2023
TJ Brodie has one year left on his contract at a 5M AAV. I’m not sure why the Maple Leafs would feel the need to buyout this player, but if they do, it is something the Penguins should look in to.
If you’re looking to replace Brian Dumoulin here it is. Brodie is older than Dumoulin but is still very competent. After the buyout Brodie should come in at or below Dumoulin’s 4M cap hit so you could slide him right into the salary structure without disrupting everything.
Kyle Dubas was the one to sign Brodie to his latest contract so there is familiarity there and we know GM’s love to go with what they know. Brad Treliving is also the one who watched Brodie walk away in free agency.
If Toronto were to buyout Brodie it would create an option for the Penguins where their front office executive has ties to the player, fills a need, and will not cost assets. This is the style of acquisition the Penguins would need to help fill in their depth on the roster.
I’m skeptical about a buyout, but if it goes down it may very well help the Penguins.
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