Historically, the Pittsburgh Penguins have been major players at the draft table but this year was completely different. In the past, the Penguins have been notorious for holding up the draft with ridiculous trade talk thanks in large part to the influence of whiskey mixed with sweet vermouth. However, there was none of that this year. The biggest move the Pens made came days before the draft where they ended up swapping all of their picks for picks next year. 

"We deceided it was in our best interest to load up for next year. With the exception of a first, we have eighteen picks to play with next draft. We hope to restock the cupboards then." said assistant GM Jason Botterill. 

With $45,000,000 in funds, the Penguins hope to be contenders in the UFA prospect market where a number of interesting youngsters have not only flown under the radar the past few years but have managed to catch the eye of the brass. 

"There are quite a few interesting players. We hope that we can land a couple to strengthen our farm." added head scout Patrick Allvin. 

Speaking of the farm, the Penguins signed Oskars Sundqvist to a two-way deal. The young Swede was the extra piece added to the Claude Giroux/Jamie Benn swap made years ago. 

"We like the intangibles that Sunny brings to the table. We feel he is a great utility player that could potentially play anywhere in the lineup. He has a big frame and is willing to grind it out in the corners. Additionally, we can't help but like his skill set. He could push for a spot at camp." said head coach Dan Bylsma. 

The Penguins decided to wait on prospects Axel Holmstrom, Ilya Samsonov and Gabriel Paquin.

"We realize that it is not a race but a marathon. We feel these three guys have to tools to play in the NEFHL one day. We aren't going to rush them." stated the Penguins GM. 

In other Pens news, rumours have circulated that the Penguins are trying to unload a big contract. Andrew Ladd is the first name that comes to mind. However, some have stated that Kris Letang is being discussed as well. Despite the rumours, the Pens brass is adamant that these notions are false. 

"Tanger and Laddy are big pieces of the puzzle. We understand their contract situation but feel that we need them in order to make a big push next year." 

Time will tell. Will another team pony up and make a splash?