Veteran forward Reilly Smith was acquired by the Pittsburgh Penguins from the Vegas Golden Knights last season in Vegas’ effort to clear cap space. The move was seen as a way for the Penguins to replace winger Jason Zucker, who left in free agency. At the beginning of the season, the move looked great on the Pens’ behalf, as Smith managed to score four goals and seven points in the first nine games, looking to have instant chemistry on the second line with Evgeni Malkin. However, the winger just had 33 points in the next 67 games and has looked like a liability at times last year. His shooting percentage also dipped to 8.6% after being at 14.4% the previous season.
Smith was a subject of trade rumors all throughout the season, including rumors that he wanted out of Pittsburgh, and it seemed like he was going to be traded before the Trade Deadline, however, GM Kyle Dubas could not find a new home for the winger.
Now, it is the offseason, and the rumors are back in full swing. This time, it seems sure that Dubas will get Reilly Smith moved sometime this offseason. Smith has one year left on his three-year contract he signed in 2022, as a member of Vegas. His contract is worth an AAV of $5 million, as well as a modified no-movement clause.
Several teams could be in the mix for the winger. At 33 years old, the winger can still produce in a top six role, but just has not been a fit on the Pens. It is up to Dubas to come up with a way to get Smith and his contract off the books. There should be several teams that could take a look at making a deal for him.
ITR 31: Let Them Fight – Inside The Rink
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