Salary Cap: '24-'25 Salary Thread: Crosbicles Volume MMXXVI: Sid is Still Goat

[JRS91]

Crosby is only leaving if he wants to leave.

Malkin has a year left on his contract. I think it'd be in bad taste to move him. I'm hoping he just retires after 2026, I'd hate to see him in another jersey. Letang is probably sticking around as well. I just don't see him being moved.

Everyone else is fair game. Karlsson just hasn't worked out. I credit Dubas for trying, but I think Kessel and Hossa are the only big acquisitions here that have worked via trade in the Crosby/Malkin era. I think the biggest and most helpful change they can make though is a coaching change. Sullivan has been here for 10 years and hasn't coached meaningful hockey in almost half of that time. It's time for a change.

 

[Empoleon8771]

I personally really hope they can get out of Letang's deal, but I figure he's not moving either. And I don't really have an issue with them keeping Rust either, like I've said a bunch just load up L1 and run with Malkin-Crosby-Rust.

If they want to nuke the rest of the roster and just have Malkin-Crosby-Rust as L1 until Crosby and Malkin retire, I'm completely good with that. It's not like you're losing out on some massive trade value by keeping Rust.

 

[LT]

Stars' fan stopping by. Was reading up on Karlsson and all of your thoughts. Karlsson is obviously still an elite defenseman, and he's someone Dallas had been interested in acquiring both times he was available in the past. He fits an immediate need for us and likely makes us a Cup favorite for the next two years. But a deal has to make sense for both sides.

Firstly, Nill has already stated that Stankoven, Bourque, and Bichsel will not be moving. If one of those is required, then there is likely no deal to be had.

Secondly, if this were a deadline deal, it would require Dumba to move out and a minimum of 1.7M retained. We are expecting Heiskanen to return before the end of the season, so him going to LTIR is unlikely. If that does happen, though, then the cap hit is not an issue at all.

It would be very uncharacteristic for Nill to move consecutive firsts, but he supposedly has a directive from ownership to do everything possible to win a Cup while this window is still open. We will see if that changes things. He's blended staying competitive with a long-term vision so far, but we've also never been this close to a Cup under his tenure.

Obviously, a trade for Karlsson begins with the 2026 1st. Outside of Hemming, we don't really have any other particularly strong prospects (and Hemming is really only there because he's a 2024 1st round pick - he struggled early, but has picked it up lately). Kyrou, Stranges, Martino, etc. should all be on the table but don't have a ton of value.

As much as we would like (and need) a top 4 defender for this upcoming playoff run, I just have a hard time seeing the assets and money work at the deadline. If Karlsson is even actually available, it seems more like an offseason move. That just feels like it makes more sense for every potential party involved.

Personally, I'd move basically any combo of picks and non-roster prospects to get this done, and that's a sentiment I think most Stars' fans agree with. But we're not the one making the deals or writing the checks.

 

[Sideline]

Stars' fan stopping by. Was reading up on Karlsson and all of your thoughts. Karlsson is obviously still an elite defenseman, and he's someone Dallas had been interested in acquiring both times he was available in the past. He fits an immediate need for us and likely makes us a Cup favorite for the next two years. But a deal has to make sense for both sides.

Firstly, Nill has already stated that Stankoven, Bourque, and Bichsel will not be moving. If one of those is required, then there is likely no deal to be had.

Secondly, if this were a deadline deal, it would require Dumba to move out and a minimum of 1.7M retained. We are expecting Heiskanen to return before the end of the season, so him going to LTIR is unlikely. If that does happen, though, then the cap hit is not an issue at all.

It would be very uncharacteristic for Nill to move consecutive firsts, but he supposedly has a directive from ownership to do everything possible to win a Cup while this window is still open. We will see if that changes things. He's blended staying competitive with a long-term vision so far, but we've also never been this close to a Cup under his tenure.

Obviously, a trade for Karlsson begins with the 2026 1st. Outside of Hemming, we don't really have any other particularly strong prospects (and Hemming is really only there because he's a 2024 1st round pick - he struggled early, but has picked it up lately). Kyrou, Stranges, Martino, etc. should all be on the table but don't have a ton of value.

As much as we would like (and need) a top 4 defender for this upcoming playoff run, I just have a hard time seeing the assets and money work at the deadline. If Karlsson is even actually available, it seems more like an offseason move. That just feels like it makes more sense for every potential party involved.

Personally, I'd move basically any combo of picks and non-roster prospects to get this done, and that's a sentiment I think most Stars' fans agree with. But we're not the one making the deals or writing the checks.

Honestly, I would be mad if Dubas didn't take Dumba, Hemming, and the 2026 1st for EK65 with whatever retention needs to happen to make that work. I think a first in 26 and a prospect is fair value and Dumba is a whatever warm body that can maybe bring back a 4th at the deadline next year.

 

[Rudy Russo]

Dumba, Bischel and a 2026 1st for Karlsson at $7 million would be my target for a return. But count me skeptical that they'll be moving Karlsson before the deadline.

I’ve heard Dubas doesn’t want to take on salary for a third time this season since they are for Petry and Smith. I still think EK gets moved in the summer.

 

[Malkinstheman]

Stars' fan stopping by. Was reading up on Karlsson and all of your thoughts. Karlsson is obviously still an elite defenseman, and he's someone Dallas had been interested in acquiring both times he was available in the past. He fits an immediate need for us and likely makes us a Cup favorite for the next two years. But a deal has to make sense for both sides.

Firstly, Nill has already stated that Stankoven, Bourque, and Bichsel will not be moving. If one of those is required, then there is likely no deal to be had.

Secondly, if this were a deadline deal, it would require Dumba to move out and a minimum of 1.7M retained. We are expecting Heiskanen to return before the end of the season, so him going to LTIR is unlikely. If that does happen, though, then the cap hit is not an issue at all.

It would be very uncharacteristic for Nill to move consecutive firsts, but he supposedly has a directive from ownership to do everything possible to win a Cup while this window is still open. We will see if that changes things. He's blended staying competitive with a long-term vision so far, but we've also never been this close to a Cup under his tenure.

Obviously, a trade for Karlsson begins with the 2026 1st. Outside of Hemming, we don't really have any other particularly strong prospects (and Hemming is really only there because he's a 2024 1st round pick - he struggled early, but has picked it up lately). Kyrou, Stranges, Martino, etc. should all be on the table but don't have a ton of value.

As much as we would like (and need) a top 4 defender for this upcoming playoff run, I just have a hard time seeing the assets and money work at the deadline. If Karlsson is even actually available, it seems more like an offseason move. That just feels like it makes more sense for every potential party involved.

Personally, I'd move basically any combo of picks and non-roster prospects to get this done, and that's a sentiment I think most Stars' fans agree with. But we're not the one making the deals or writing the checks.

I know people here will disagree but I cant imagine EK having that much value with his NMC and age/contract. Personally I would be perfectly content with trading EK for a 2026 1st + Kyrou + Dumba. Dubas has been very adamant that he doesnt plan on stripping the team down to the studs though so no idea if guys like EK/Rakell will even be available.

 

[LT]

Honestly, I would be mad if Dubas didn't take Dumba, Hemming, and the 2026 1st for EK65 with whatever retention needs to happen to make that work. I think a first in 26 and a prospect is fair value and Dumba is a whatever warm body that can maybe bring back a 4th at the deadline next year.

I think Stars' fans would be quite happy with that as well. I just hope Nill isn't so tied to his picks that he balks at the cost.

 

[Andy99]

Stars' fan stopping by. Was reading up on Karlsson and all of your thoughts. Karlsson is obviously still an elite defenseman, and he's someone Dallas had been interested in acquiring both times he was available in the past. He fits an immediate need for us and likely makes us a Cup favorite for the next two years. But a deal has to make sense for both sides.

Firstly, Nill has already stated that Stankoven, Bourque, and Bichsel will not be moving. If one of those is required, then there is likely no deal to be had.

Secondly, if this were a deadline deal, it would require Dumba to move out and a minimum of 1.7M retained. We are expecting Heiskanen to return before the end of the season, so him going to LTIR is unlikely. If that does happen, though, then the cap hit is not an issue at all.

It would be very uncharacteristic for Nill to move consecutive firsts, but he supposedly has a directive from ownership to do everything possible to win a Cup while this window is still open. We will see if that changes things. He's blended staying competitive with a long-term vision so far, but we've also never been this close to a Cup under his tenure.

Obviously, a trade for Karlsson begins with the 2026 1st. Outside of Hemming, we don't really have any other particularly strong prospects (and Hemming is really only there because he's a 2024 1st round pick - he struggled early, but has picked it up lately). Kyrou, Stranges, Martino, etc. should all be on the table but don't have a ton of value.

As much as we would like (and need) a top 4 defender for this upcoming playoff run, I just have a hard time seeing the assets and money work at the deadline. If Karlsson is even actually available, it seems more like an offseason move. That just feels like it makes more sense for every potential party involved.

Personally, I'd move basically any combo of picks and non-roster prospects to get this done, and that's a sentiment I think most Stars' fans agree with. But we're not the one making the deals or writing the checks.

Given what you’re saying is off limits prospect wise, EK with some retention plus a second or third for Wyatt Johnston and your cap dump…

 

[Rudy Russo]

Chris Johnston is on the TSN Overdrive show right now and said the Penguins "have a for sale sign in everybody that's not going to have their number hanging in the rafters someday."

He's a legitimate TSN insider so I take that to mean anyone not name Letang, Malkin, or Crosby could move.

And Nieto

 

[Malkinstheman]

Given what you’re saying is off limits prospect wise, EK with some retention plus a second or third for Wyatt Johnston and your cap dump…

Andy come on, they arent trading their 1C for a 35 year old Karlsson lol

 

[LT]

Given what you’re saying is off limits prospect wise, EK with some retention plus a second or third for Wyatt Johnston and your cap dump…

Johnston is absolutely untouchable.

Anyone notable currently on our roster is highly unlikely to move. Dumba is the only real cap dump we have.

 

[Le Magnifique 66]

Stars' fan stopping by. Was reading up on Karlsson and all of your thoughts. Karlsson is obviously still an elite defenseman, and he's someone Dallas had been interested in acquiring both times he was available in the past. He fits an immediate need for us and likely makes us a Cup favorite for the next two years. But a deal has to make sense for both sides.

Firstly, Nill has already stated that Stankoven, Bourque, and Bichsel will not be moving. If one of those is required, then there is likely no deal to be had.

Secondly, if this were a deadline deal, it would require Dumba to move out and a minimum of 1.7M retained. We are expecting Heiskanen to return before the end of the season, so him going to LTIR is unlikely. If that does happen, though, then the cap hit is not an issue at all.

It would be very uncharacteristic for Nill to move consecutive firsts, but he supposedly has a directive from ownership to do everything possible to win a Cup while this window is still open. We will see if that changes things. He's blended staying competitive with a long-term vision so far, but we've also never been this close to a Cup under his tenure.

Obviously, a trade for Karlsson begins with the 2026 1st. Outside of Hemming, we don't really have any other particularly strong prospects (and Hemming is really only there because he's a 2024 1st round pick - he struggled early, but has picked it up lately). Kyrou, Stranges, Martino, etc. should all be on the table but don't have a ton of value.

As much as we would like (and need) a top 4 defender for this upcoming playoff run, I just have a hard time seeing the assets and money work at the deadline. If Karlsson is even actually available, it seems more like an offseason move. That just feels like it makes more sense for every potential party involved.

Personally, I'd move basically any combo of picks and non-roster prospects to get this done, and that's a sentiment I think most Stars' fans agree with. But we're not the one making the deals or writing the checks.

What are the thoughts on Minnetian from you Stars fans? I'm curious if he can be added to a potential deal along with Hemming, Dumba and 2026 1st for EK retained.

 

[Andy99]

https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/penguins/2025/02/24/vladislav-kolyachonok-matt-grzelcyk-utah-hockey-club/stories/202502240036

 

[LT]

What are the thoughts on Minnetian from you Stars fans? I'm curious if he can be added to a potential deal along with Hemming, Dumba and 2026 1st for EK retained

He's been fine. Good value for where he was picked, but probably still a long shot to become an NHL regular. Not overly tied to him.

 

[Andy99]

Andy come on, they arent trading their 1C for a 35 year old Karlsson lol

Hey, he’s not even a point per game…and he’s their 3C not 1C…for a two time Norris winner…EK will have something meaningful to play for there and I’ll bet he’ll be great for them..gotta give to get lol

 

[Le Magnifique 66]

https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/penguins/2025/02/24/vladislav-kolyachonok-matt-grzelcyk-utah-hockey-club/stories/202502240036

Matt, really, a must win game? Oufff lol

 

[Andy99]

Matt, really, a must win game? Oufff lol

We don’t have any must win games anymore lol..if anything they are must lose…

 

[Empoleon8771]

Obviously, a trade for Karlsson begins with the 2026 1st. Outside of Hemming, we don't really have any other particularly strong prospects (and Hemming is really only there because he's a 2024 1st round pick - he struggled early, but has picked it up lately). Kyrou, Stranges, Martino, etc. should all be on the table but don't have a ton of value..

I'd be pretty content with Karlsson with retention for Dumba, Kyrou and a 2026 1st. I don't think Kyrou may be anything super special of a prospect, but his skillset (pure OFD with a booming shot) is something the Penguins don't really have much of in their system. It also makes sense for the Penguins to gamble on that skillset with trading Karlsson. It's just a question of how much retention would be needed there? I think Karlsson at $7 million for that package seems pretty reasonable.

With any Karlsson trade, the main piece of the package is going to be the 2026 1st. Getting a scratch off lottery ticket prospect like Kyrou in addition is worth it, even if he's not really all that valuable of a chip.

 

[DRAGO 18]

If Bourque or Bischel aren't on the table plus + retain on EK65 AND take on Dumba's cap hit I'm not interested-- I'll wait to the summer to try and move Karlsson then.

It's completely reasonable Johnston and Stankoven are off limits; the others you have to give to get a little bit.

 

[Empoleon8771]

If Bourque or Bischel aren't on the table plus + retain on EK65 AND take on Dumba's cap hit I'm not interested-- I'll wait to the summer to try and move Karlsson then.

It's completely reasonable Johnston and Stankoven are off limits; the others you have to give to get a little bit.

I mean the Penguins got Karlsson for a single 1st and cap dumps in a season after Karlsson had 100 points.

 

[DRAGO 18]

I mean the Penguins got Karlsson for a single 1st and cap dumps in a season after Karlsson had 100 points.

The first was unprotected and ended up a what, 13th overall pick?

The Dallas pick next year won't be anywhere as valuable as that, should be a late 1st rounder 26th overall or worse....

 

[Empoleon8771]

The first was unprotected and ended up a what, 13th overall pick?

The Dallas pick next year won't be anywhere as valuable as that, should be a late 1st rounder 26th overall or worse....

The Penguins 1st was projected to be substantially lower than where it ended up. They missed the playoffs by a point the year before and I figure most people were expecting that adding EK would get them back to the playoffs.

If the Penguins didn't have to pay the equivalent of Bischel and a 1st for Karlsson, I don't know why you'd expect Dallas to do that.

 

[DRAGO 18]

I never said I wanted their '26 first and Bischel or Bourque; a selection one of the two of them plus Matt Dumba's cap dump is fine with me.

 

[Coffee]

Not to be nosy, but no GDT for tomorrows game yet?

 

[Gurglesons]

Do you ever think about how Hextall is the worst GM ever and he drafted out best forward, defenseman and goaltender currently in the system?