Pens News

Titles of Articles:

1) “Pens Sign Primeau”

written by: Anonymous

2) “Kaspiritis Must Go Now”

written by: hockeynutPens Sign Primeau

The Penguins took one more step toward solidifying their 2001-02 roster on Thursday.

General manager Craig Patrick announced that the team has come to an agreement with free agent center Wayne Primeau on a new deal. In keeping with club policy, terms of the contract were not released.

Primeau, 25, joined the Penguins on Feb. 1 after being traded from Tampa Bay for Matthew Barnaby. In 28 regular season games with the Pens, Primeau tallied seven points (1+6) and 54 penalty minutes. He added another four points (1+3) in 18 playoff contests with Pittsburgh, and placed sixth on the team with 37 hits in the post-season.

A fomer first round draft pick (17th overall) of the Buffalo Sabres, Primeau has recorded 71 points (24+47) in 317 NHL games with the Penguins, Lightning and Sabres. Last season he set career highs in games played (75), assists (19), points (22) and penalty minutes (118).

With Primeau agreeing to terms, the Pens are left with just one of their key players from last season unsigned – goaltender Johan Hedberg.

Kaspiritis must go now!!!!

It was reported yesterday that Darius Kasperaitis, speaking Wednesday from a training location in Sweden, stated that he is not pleased with the Penguins decision to let his contract situation go to arbitration. He decided not to have the hearing so he could qualify for unrestricted free agency next season.

He added that he will not give the type of dedication to the team that he had in past years. He will not play injured and risk a more severe injury that would jeapordize his free agency chances next summer. This is exactly what the Penguins do not need going into the 2001-02 season. He must go now!

If Craig Patrick were to make any decisions on changes in the next few months it would have to be to move Kasperaitis. He cannot remain in this organization with less than 100% commitment. Craig must get a few bidders lined up and let them talk contract extensions with Kaspers agent. Make both sides feel comfortable with the situation and move him. Get it done now to avoid locker room problems based on his attitude toward the organization.