There would be a number of factors that would have to contribute to a Marc-Andre Fleury return in Pittsburgh, but it’s not slowed the chatter that his former team might be interested in a reunion this season if the Chicago Blackhawks decided to sell assets and Fleury is among those heading out the door. Specifically, Dan Rosen of NHL.com writes, “Marc-Andre Fleury would look pretty good in a Penguins uniform again.” He adds, “he’s a pending unrestricted free agent and if the Blackhawks’ season doesn’t turn around, they likely will be looking to trade him. “
Is this actually realistic?
First, the Penguins need to be a playoff team. Just now getting a healthy lineup back, they’ve tried to stay afloat with some of their key pieces out of the lineup this season. As Dan Rosen of NHL.com points out, “if it’s unrealistic for them to get into the playoffs this season there would be zero reasons to trade away assets to get another goalie, even if it is Fleury, who is still beloved by the fanbase.”
Second, Fleury would have to want to return to the Penguins. That one seems a little easier to believe considering he’s got a history there.
Third, the salary situation isn’t one that just takes care of itself. Penguins backup Casey DeSmith would be part of any deal and his $1.25 million cap hit would go the other way, but that wouldn’t be enough to make adding Fleury’s $7 million contract possible. The Blackhawks would likely have to retain some salary in any trade, which makes the asking price go up and complicates matters.
When Would the Penguins Look at This Kind of Trade?
The Penguins currently sit 7th in the Metropolitan Division with a 5-6-4 record and are a ways away from knowing if they’ll be in the postseason conversation. Adding a player like Fleury will either mean the Penguins have decided they are either going for it with such a small window to maximize the time they have left with players like Sidney Crosby and Kris Letang, or they have moved up the standings enough to the point they want to remain in the hunt and believe a better goaltender gives them a chance to win.
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