Fair enough, you mentioned 2009 and implied in your original post if the Pens should have done something to move Malkin in the dry years subsequent to 2009. The answer is, of course not. Malkin is a generational talent. He has never failed to score close to 30 goals and a PPG.
...and once again, big difference between Crosby or Malkin, and Anze Kopitar.
There's really not a huge difference between Malkin and Kopitar, unless you think scoring is the end all be all of a player's value. Malkin will always be considered better, but it's not a huge chasm.
The problems the Penguins went through are ROUGHLY similar to what the Kings find themselves in now, which is that what should be a contending playoff squad is woefully under performing, but the Pens were able to win a few playoff games and get close at least, whereas the Kings have TANKED the last 3 years. So that does lend credence to your, "All hope of contention soon is lost" point. But still, the Pens stuck with their core and did eventually pull it around, so there is still that to consider ultimately.
Personally, I think a successful retool is still very unlikely; not until we see some big moves or prospects pan out better than they have so far. But I ALSO still think that going full rebuild rather than sign Kopitar would have been a bad move. Even though I think it's unlikely at this current stage, I do still think it's possible to retool in a few years with the right deals, drafting, and development.
