Ron Hextall‘s time as Penguins General Manager (GM) was filled with some bright spots, but many blemishes. This article looks at his three best moves as GM. Ron Hextall’s tenure as Pittsburgh Penguins GM was marked by several controversial decisions. However, Hextall did make some impactful moves that benefited the team. This article highlights the three best moves made by Ron Hextall during his time as GM, analyzing their significance and long-term impact on the Penguins.
Ron Hextall’s Best Moves as General Manager
#3. Kris Letang Signing
Re-signing defenceman Kris Letang was a crucial move by Hextall. On July 7, 2022, Hextall secured Letang to a six-year, $36.6 million contract, ensuring that one of the team’s core players remained in Pittsburgh. As a franchise cornerstone of the team, the organization and its fans were worried about him potentially leaving the organization in free agency. With a week left before the 2022 Free Agency kicked off, GM Hextall penned Letang to a long-term deal keeping him in Pittsburgh presumably entire retirement.
Impact
Although the Penguins have struggled as of late, Letang has continued to be a defensive stalwart. He has maintained a high level of play deep into his 30s. He has scored 92 points in 146 games while playing tough defensive minutes for the team. Letang’s leadership on and off the ice has been invaluable, providing stability and experience to the Penguins’ blue line.
Signing Analysis
The Letang signing was seen as a significant achievement for Hextall’s regime. Letang was signed to a favorable cap hit of $6.1 million per season. Locking up a key franchise player like Letang at a reasonable price allows the Penguins to maintain a competitive roster while balancing their salary cap. This move and the next one ultimately demonstrated Hextall’s ability to retain core talent at good value.
#2. Evgeni Malkin Signing
Similar to Letang, Evgeni Malkin was set to become a free agent for the first time in his career. Malkin’s re-signing saga was a little more publicized, with captain Sidney Crosby famously meeting with Malkin to convince him to stay. Re-signing Malkin was another success for Hextall. On July 12, 2022, one day before free agency, Hextall managed to secure Malkin to a four-year, $24.4 million contract, ensuring that one of the franchise’s greatest players would finish his career in Pittsburgh.
Impact
While Malkin has certainly lost a step, his performance has remained impressive. He has contributed 150 points in 164 games since the signing. Malkin’s ability to perform at a high level, even as he ages, is crucial for the Penguins’ offensive depth. Malkin’s presence on the ice and his experience provides the team with a stable presence on the ice and in the locker room.
Signing Analysis
The Malkin and Letang signings are a testament to Hextall’s negotiation skills. He managed to keep two star players at cap-friendly contracts. Malkin’s deal not only ensured that the Penguins retained their offensive core but also allows for flexibility in managing other contracts on the roster.
#1. Rickard Rakell Trade
The trade for Rickard Rakell was arguably Hextall’s best move as Penguins GM. On March 21, 2022, Hextall acquired Rakell from the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for Zach Aston-Reese, Dominik Simon, Calle Clang, and a 2022 second-round pick. Rakell was seen as a necessary acquisition, as the Penguins were in great need of a top six scoring winger. Rakell was previously known as a scoring threat with the Anaheim Ducks prior to his move to the Penguins, and filled this role for the Penguins as well.
Impact
Rakell’s addition provided an immediate boost to the Penguins’ offensive depth. In his first full season with the Penguins, Rakell recorded 28 goals and 32 assists for 60 points in 82 games. Rakell’s versatility allows him to play in various roles, contributing effectively on both the power play and even strength. He has quickly become an integral part of the Penguins’ top-six forward group. His skill and unorthodox puck handling skills adds a dangerous element to the forward group. Rakell struggled this past season before finding chemistry alongside Evgeni Malkin and new acquisition Michael Bunting down the stretch.
Trade Analysis
The Rakell trade was a great move by Ron Hextall. Hextall acquired a top-six winger by giving up depth players and prospects. Players like Aston-Reese and Simon are no longer in the league, while Calle Clang is yet to make an impact. Rakell’s subsequent six-year, $30 million contract extension for Rakell further helps the value of this trade. Rakell’s consistent performance and willingness to adapt to different roles make this trade the highlight of Hextall’s tenure.
Conclusion
Despite the various setbacks of Ron Hextall’s during his time as Penguins GM, he did make impactful decisions that positively influenced the team. Re-signing key players like Kris Letang and Evgeni Malkin ensured the retention of franchise legends at valuable cap hits. Additionally, the acquisition of Rickard Rakell has provided a boost to the team’s offensive depth. These moves highlight Hextall’s capacity to secure valuable players and maintain a competitive roster, highlighting the brighter spots of his time as GM with the Penguins.
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