Haggerty: Bruins' Interest In Kesler Is To Drive Up Price For Pittsburgh
BOSTON (CBS) - Another trade deadline is upon us and the Eastern Conference-leading Pittsburgh Penguins appear to be in on every single deal once again.
As it stands the Pens have a comfortable three game lead over the Bruins, and any sizable addition to their roster of Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and company could tip the balance of power in the East - like for instance a Ryan Kesler.
The American-born Kesler told people in Sochi that he wants out of Vancouver and would like to return to the states to play for an American team.
Pittsburgh is the team that's coming up the most in pre-deadline discussions, but how is it that year after year they can always afford to make trades? Not to mention Lightning captain Martin St. Louis is also rumored to be heading to the Steel City.
CSNNE's Joe Haggerty explains why on 98.5 The Sports Hub's Toucher & Rich show Monday morning.
"Penguins general manager Ray Shero, in the seven trade deadlines he's been there, has brought in a total of 17 players. That's a lot. That tells you that he brings in guys every single year. He likes to add to his roster and he'll do it again this year. He's one of those general managers that when he sets his sights on a player they absolutely need he goes out and gets it. Ryan Kesler is a guy the Penguins have decided that they really want," said Haggs.
Haggerty's barking dog then interrupted the interview - clearly he doesn't want to see the rival Penguins acquire the Olympian over his beloved Bruins.
Bruins general manager Peter Chiarelli said on this very station that he hopes to be active before the deadline, so do the rumored links of Kesler-to-Boston have any merit?
Not quite, said Haggerty.
"Boston has been connected to Kesler, and I think the sole reason that teams have been linked to Ryan Kesler is to drive up the price for Pittsburgh, or Detroit or New York. These teams all seem to want Kesler. It's going to be interesting to watch and see what happens."
Haggerty also predicted that Martin St. Louis is staying put in Tampa Bay, but could be traded over the summer.
So no Kesler and no St. Louis for the Bruins, but Haggerty did provide some realistic options for the B's come Wednesday's deadline - listen to the full discussion below:
MORE FROM TOUCHER AND RICH