Penguins Sign Alex Goligoski To 3-Year Deal

It's my every intention to write more about the 2009 Stanley Cup Champion Pittsburgh Penguins but until I get back from vacation next week, I'm a bit hit or miss here. I'm getting things up when I can but otherwise, it's mainly just staying on top of the Penguins' news.

And there is news in Penguin-land.

Pittsburgh signed free agent defenseman Alex Goligoski to a 3-year, 5.5 million dollar deal yesterday.

GoGo had 20 points in only 45 games this past season, playing mostly when defenseman Sergei Gonchar and Ryan Whitney were missing time with injuries. Once those guys returned, the Penguins' sent Goligoski back to the Baby Penguins mainly becasue they didn't have roster space for him at that point.

As Pens' GM Ray Shero said at that time, "we know he can play at this level".

And play at "this" level is exactly what Goligoski is likely to do next season, since the deal he signed is a one-way contract. He will almost certainly hold down one of the top 6 spots. The only question will be who the Penguins are going to be forced to let go -- unrestricted free agent Rob Scuderi or unrestricted free agent Hal Gill. Unforunately, one or both of those defensemen will depart this off-season.

Gosh I hope it's not Scuderi.

Anyway, with this deal, the Penguins lock up one of their very young players who has the potential to be a big offensive weapon for them on the backline. Goligoski will have to work on ihs play in his own end, but chances are that will improve over time.

More on the Stanley Cup Final in the coming days.