Pennsylvania Arms Race Heating Up

As GM Fargas woke up this morning to make his pick, he smiled contentedly as he announced Valtteri Filppula with pick no. 204.

"Filppula gives us another high-end top 6 weapon. At 30 years of age, he is still in his prime and figures to be an important two-way contributor to our franchise."

Filppula will center Pittsburgh's second line. Fargas will look to complement him with another forward in round no. 8, as his top line is already set.  Andrew Ladd and Wayne Simmonds flank new captain Jamie Benn on what figures to be a powerhouse first unit.

The Penguins also boast a formidable first pairing on defense, with assistant captain Ryan McDonagh and dangerous rover Kris Letang. Letang and McDonagh will both log big minutes on the powerplay in addition to their 1st pairing duties.  Fargas will likely look to bolster these ranks with veteran, stay-at-home defenders over the upcoming rounds.

In goal, Fargas opted to let several elite options pass by before nabbing the underrated but solid Jimmy Howard in round 5.  Howard is reliable and nearing elite status with his play for the NHL's Detroit Red Wings this season. 

There is lots of work left to do, but the backbone of this Pittsburgh team is strong as ever.