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Lemieux-Burkle Penguins Bid Falls Short, Roslovic still Weighing Options
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The Pittsburgh Penguins may not be returning to the ownership of Mario Lemieux and Ronald Burkle, and top free agent Jack Roslovic remains uncommitted as he explores his NHL future. Here’s the latest on both developing stories.
Penguins Ownership Speculation Quelled
Rumors swirled recently about a potential return of Mario Lemieux to the Penguins’ ownership group, alongside businessman Ronald Burkle. However, according to Sportsnet’s Elliot friedman, a deal isn’t currently close to materializing.
Friedman downplayed the possibility, acknowledging Lemieux’s iconic status in Pittsburgh. “I can understand why Penguins fans would be excited about the possibility of Lemieux. He’s a God there,and everything he touches turns to gold,” he said.
The core issue appears to be valuation. The current ownership group, Fenway Sports Group, is seeking a price significantly higher than what Lemieux and Burkle are currently willing to offer.”The Penguins sold for around $900 million (in 2021) and the Lightning sold for around $1.8 billion,” Friedman explained. “I think that’s where the Penguins would want to be. From what I understand, it is just not close to that at this point in time.”
This suggests Fenway Sports Group is aiming for a sale price reflecting the increased value of NHL franchises, particularly considering recent transactions like the Tampa Bay Lightning’s sale. While a Lemieux-led group remains a fan favorite scenario, the financial gap presents a substantial hurdle.
Meanwhile, Jack Roslovic, one of the most prominent remaining free agents, is taking his time to find the right fit. Despite interest from multiple teams, he hasn’t signed a contract.
Friedman reported that Roslovic isn’t lacking options. “I’ve heard there are still a few teams looking at him,” Friedman stated. “He’s the best available player remaining and obviously he hasn’t found anything he 100 per cent likes. There’s definitely a few teams poking around there. I’ve heard five or six. So he has to get to something he’s comfortable with.”
Roslovic enjoyed a productive 2023-24 season with the Carolina Hurricanes, tying his career-high with 22 goals on a one-year, $2.8 million contract. However, his inconsistent role in the Hurricanes’ playoff lineup may have impacted his market value.
Toronto Maple Leafs as a Potential Destination
The Toronto Maple Leafs have been linked to Roslovic, and Friedman highlighted a potential connection. “It makes sense to me as he has a history with Auston Matthews,” Friedman said in July. “They played together at the U.S. national progress team, so I could see this connection. Roslovic is also a right-hand shot. You know he is a veteran. He’s been around a long time. matthews obviously knows him. I’m curious to see if that happens.”
The existing familiarity between Roslovic and Matthews could be a significant factor, offering a potentially seamless integration into the Leafs’ lineup. Roslovic’s veteran experience and right-handed shot further align with the Leafs’ needs.
Roslovic’s situation underscores the complexities of NHL free agency, where players carefully evaluate opportunities to maximize their value and find a team where they can contribute meaningfully. As he continues to weigh his options, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see where the skilled forward ultimately lands.