MORE Speculation Abound

With the trade of Malone to TB, it would seem that Pens fans have less rumors to worry about, but NOT SO FAST!

The Insider on Pittsburgh Sports is now reporting the following new rumors to keep the embers burning!

• "It is unknown if Malone is willing to sign with Tampa Bay but I've been told the Lightning are prepared to make a 5yr - 22.5 million offer."
• "I've also been hearing Shero might not be done for the day and Carolina has inquired about acquiring the rights to Jarkko Ruutu. Shero is waiting to hear back from Ruutu's agent Don Baizley in regards to the Penguins two year offer."

It appears that Tampa Bay has money to spare and are willing to frivolously spend it (I guess Malone wouldn't necessarily be considered frivolous, but spending that kind of money is).

The following is from Tampa Bay Lightning's official webpage (Oren Koules in one of TB's owners):

"We said earlier this week we would be aggressive in our pursuit of free agents in order to win and compete," Koules said. "This trade today doesn’t guarantee anything, but we believe it gives us a leg up in our attempt to sign these two impact players."

I would assume that Malone signing with TB also depends on where he [and Mrs. Malone] sees fit for the family. One thing is for sure, Malone will add a spark to the already charged bolt of Lightning in St. Louis and LeCavalier; that would honestly be something to see! What will also be interesting is the chemistry Malone will have with the TB team (and whether or not it will match that of the Pens) and how much of an impact it will have on Malone's playing.

And as far as Ruutu is concerned (for me anyway) - the wait is over and I'll finally be able to get some answers on his status with the Pens. [[UPDATE in post above regarding this next item] I just read on a message board that he may go back to Finland which is the first time that's ever been mentioned, but of course it's pure speculation.] Honestly, I'd rather see him go back to Finland than see him on another NHL team (sorta like if we can't have him then no one else can either). I'm just happy we've moved on from concentrating on our "big name" UFA and moved onto the role players!

And how TIOPS wrote the post, "I've also been hearing Shero might not be done for the day," it would seem that I might not have much longer to wait!

It won't be long now, folks (I'm hoping it'll be worth all the wait)!