Can The Pens Afford Jagr?
PITTSBURGH (KDKA)- The big question concerning Jaromir Jagr and his return to the NHL is how much money will he demand?
Reportedly, the Penguins are willing to offer Jagr between $1 and $2 million for a one-year deal. The Detroit Red Wings could be willing to offer more than that.
The deciding factor could end up being Jagr's relationship and respect for Pens owner Mario Lemieux.
If the Pens make a respectable offer, Jagr will likely return to the Penguins.
The Pens also received good news today when the salary cap for the upcoming season was revealed.
According to the NHL, the salary cap has been officially set at $64.3 million. That gives the Penguins around $8.78 million in cap space.
They have $55.516 million committed to 17 players for the 2011-2012 season.
Forwards
Sidney Crosby - $8.7 million
Evgeni Malkin - $8.7 million
Jordan Staal - $4 million
Chris Kunitz - $3.725 million
James Neal - $2.850 million
Matt Cooke - $1.8 million
Craig Adams - $675,000
Mark Letestu - $625,000
Total: $31.075
Defensemen
Paul Martin - $5 million
Zbynek Michalek - $4 million
Brooks Orpik - $3.75 million
Kris Letang - $3.5 million
Matt Niskanen - $1.5 million
Deryk Engelland - $566,000
Ben Lovejoy - $525,000
Total: $18.841 million
Goaltenders
Marc Andre Fleury - $5 million
Brent Johnson - $600,000
Total: $5.6 million
Here are some cap hits for players on two-way deals who could make the team:
Forwards
Eric Tangradi - $849,000
Nick Johnson - $550,000
Dustin Jeffrey - $550,000
Ryan Craig - $525,000
Joe Vitale - $512,000
Defensemen
Simon Despres - $840,000
Brian Strait - $862,000
