Could Kahun Return to the Penguins?

Before I start my ramble, I need to state that this post is pure pipe dream.

I happened to be scanning the list of restricted free agents who did not receive qualifying offers on NHL.com when I saw a name that stopped me in my tracks.

Dominik Kahun.

Frankly, I was stunned. In my humble opinion we got fleeced when general manager Jim Rutherford peddled the speedy winger to Buffalo at the trade deadline for Conor Sheary and Evan Rodrigues.

I’m not alone. Just about every other blog and media outlet has questioned the deal as well, along with many of you.

After a pokey start (two assists in his first 11 games), I thought Kahun did a terrific job for us last season. He tallied 10 goals and 25 points over his last 39 games here, while displaying a really nice skill set…excellent speed, good puck smarts and creativity, a deft passing touch and a willingness to hustle and play a 200-foot game.

Even better, the 25-year-old Czech Republic native proved to be a versatile performer who could slot up and down the lineup. When injuries riddled the top six, he filled in ably next to Evgeni Malkin and Bryan Rust. He also worked well with Jared McCann (are you listening JR?).

A perfect second-tier player, really.

I have no idea why he was deemed expendable. Although signed for a friendly $925,000, I heard rumblings that Rutherford didn’t think he could re-sign the pending RFA at a favorable rate. Too, shortly before the Pens shipped Kahun out they imported fellow port-sider Jason Zucker.

I really don’t care. It was a mistake to trade Kahun. And I’d really like to get him back. He’s familiar with the guys and knows our system. I think he’d be an ideal fit for our still coalescing third line.

A rather large fly in the ointment. Even though the Sabres didn’t extend Kahun a qualifying offer, they’re actively seeking to re-sign him. So Dominik may not be all that “free” after all.

If he does hit the free-agent market, there’s the not-so-small matter of what other clubs might be willing to pay for his services. Still, it’s certainly worth kicking the tires.

JR’s known for correcting his mistakes. Well, I hope he can fix this one.

Lafferty Re-ups

The Pens have re-signed forward Sam Lafferty to a two-year deal with an average annual value of $750,000.

“We have been very pleased with Sam’s development,” said Rutherford. “His size and speed are big advantages in today’s game, and we like what he brings to our lineup.”

The 25-year-old native of nearby Hollidaysburg made a splash during his rookie season with the black and gold, despite seeing limited ice time (9:37 ATOI). He tallied six goals and 13 points in 50 games while filling in at both center and left wing.

Displaying an aggressive streak, Lafferty also dished out 95 hits, fourth among black-and-gold forwards.