In the lulls of Summer, while Ol Stanley's Trophy makes its Rounds with the Anaheim Ducks' players, the NHL is in cruise control mode. Thats not to say that this Offseason hasn't had its share of oddities and action, because it has.
Your very own Sidney Crosby not only became the youngest Captain in Team and League history, but he signed a 5 year Extension that will keep him in a Penguin sweater until 2013. General Manager Ray Shero is beginning to really put his thumb print on the team. Signing veterans Sergei Zubov and Petr Sykora to 2 year deals each; while securing Gary Roberts and Mark Recchis services for another year, shows that he believes that their veteran leadership is what this team needed instead of a big name Free Agent.
Speaking of Free Agents, Philadelphia and the New York Rangers both made huge splashes this off season with big name free agent signings. With Philadelphia picking up Danny Briere and New York netting Scott Gomez and Chris Drury. All three contracts combined are worth over 110 Million dollars.
The young Penguins are going to be going up against some stiff competition in the Atlantic Division. Every team except the Islanders looks to be a legitimate contender for the Division title. Training Camp and the pre-season are just around the corner, so puck heads, get those Staal Sweaters from the closet, practice your Mike Lange impersonations, because the NHL will be in full swing before you know it.
Rich Wahl covers sports for RizzoSports.com
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