And what of Brandon Saad, another offer sheet candidate given the Chicago Blackhawks' cap situation?
Again, I can’t imagine Chicago would not match any offer, but Saad’s situation screams offer sheet.
A source suggested to me Tuesday that the Pittsburgh Penguins are a team to watch as far as having interest in Saad. The Penguins would love to make a splash by grabbing the Pittsburgh native, especially given their need for a top-six scoring winger.
The Penguins could make a trade offer or an issue an offer sheet. I think veteran general manager Jim Rutherford will explore what it takes on the Saad front.
I think Saad stays put in Chicago, but that doesn’t mean the Penguins won’t try.
This item has been edited to correct information about the Penguins' ability to issue an offer sheet in 2015.