Perfect Third-Line Center Emerges for the Pittsburgh Penguins

Jordan Staal was drafted 2nd overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins back in 2006. Playing the first 6 years of his career in Pittsburgh, Staal has ties to the city. After being traded to Carolina in 2012, Staal has gone on to play over 1,100 NHL games and currently captains the Hurricanes.

Staal just finished up a 10-year contract he signed with Carolina and is now hitting the free-agent market. While it is likely Carolina resigns him, there is still a chance he decides to take his talents elsewhere.

Per Penguins reporter Danny Shirey:

While Shirey acknowledges it is unlikely they bring Staal in, the possibility is not completely ruled out.

Staal provides a dominant defensive game and is constantly in Selke conversation. He is the perfect third-line center for most teams and if the money is right, he could return to Pittsburgh.