The Pittsburgh Penguins knew Jason Zucker was going to test free agency and leave the Penguins, so the then newly acquainted GM Kyle Dubas wasted no time on getting his replacement. He went out and acquired forward Reilly Smith from the Vegas Golden Knights.
Smith seemed like the perfect Zucker replacement. Similar age, production, and even the contracts were similar. It seemed like it was going to be a straight up perfect fit. Smith would slot right into Zucker’s spot on the second line.
After the first few games, it seemed like a great trade. Smith had six goals and 11 points in his first ten games alongside Evgeni Malkin. It seemed like we may have even received an upgrade over Zucker.
Alas, ever since the first ten games of the season, Smith went quiet. Very quiet, in fact. Smith only has four goals and 11 points in his last 41 games. He has not even looked noticeable out there most nights.
With him making $5 million this season and next, it is clear that this type of production will not fly with that kind of contract. Trading him in the next week should be a priority. The good news is several teams have explored interest, so he may be able to be moved after all. The rumor is Dubas is fine with retaining salary, and with Smith not being a free agent at the end of the year, getting a player with term for cheap is likely why there is interest. If the Penguins can move him, they should.
With this move, the Penguins should be able to shed some cap space and help Smith and the team itself for giving everyone a fresh start.
Now the question turns to why Smith has not been producing with the Pens? The answer is simple. His playing style simply does not fit in with the Pens. A very similar example would be David Perron. He was a good player who seemed like he would be a good fit, however, he did not end up fitting with the Pens, and was traded to the Anaheim Ducks for Carl Hagelin. Another reason could be the fact that he is historically an inconsistent player. He has had several times in his career where he has gone games putting up points and other games not putting up any. He has gone up and down in the number of points he gets per season several times.
Now, even after all his down years, he has been able to have a good season the following year, but he will be 33 by then, and Dubas has said he is trying to make this team younger. Smith may also be able to find his scoring touch on the team he gets acquired to, and maybe he can go and win another Stanley Cup.
Trading him looks to be a win-win for all involved. The Penguins free up cap space and get an almost invisible player off their team, while Smith gets a new opportunity to help re-find his production.
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