According to Aaron Ward of NHL Network, former Toronto Maple Leaf and Michigan Wolverine (among other things) Matt Hunwick is heading to the Pittsburgh Penguins. That would make it a veteran defender swap from Toronto, who are expected to sign Ron Hainsey. The deal is for three years and $6.75MM total broken down as follows:
- 2017-18: $2.5MM
- 2018-19: $2.5MM
- 2019-20: $1.75MM
Hunwick has been a depth defenseman for his entire career, bouncing between the bottom pairing and the press box for years. His ability to play both sides, and an apparent outstanding leadership quality give him a market around the league and apparently enough to lock up both term and a solid salary.
The 32-year-old played in 72 games last year for Toronto, the third-most games played in his career. He finished the season with one goal and 18 assists for 19 points, which are his best totals since the 2008-09 season.
Upgrade over Hainsey. Every team should overpay everyone available so the Penguins can’t sign anybody.
I’d rather have Hainsey. I thought he played pretty well for the Pens