Pensburgh: Defense Has A Bright Future, But Patience Is Required

As harsh a reality as it may be, Sergei Gonchar is not immortal. Hooks touched upon that earlier this week. It's sad but true. With the recent signing of Letang, all indications would suggest Gonch is gone after this season. You may make a formidable case by presenting the relation to other veteran defensemen like Nik Lidstrom (but not Chris Chelios, God forbid), but I think I'd rather my team bank more on the future in guys like Kris Letang and Alex Goligoski instead of hanging on to something that just might not be there anymore in a guy like Gonchar. The risk is too great, especially for a team that is looking to make continuous runs for the Cup. That doesn't mean I'd bash re-signing him, but a lot has to do with ponying up the dough that could possibly be spent elsewhere. Amount pending of course.

Speaking of GoGo, I think there is a lot of room for improvement on his end. I speak specifically on his defensive side, whereby the mere expense of $5 could replace his presence on the ice with an orange cone and be just as effective. But if we're using Letang as a model for development (which in this case, I am), then his defensive game will come with time. Again, it's that whole patience thing. It's safe to say that expectations were a bit high for GoGo in his first full season with the club. Next season may very well be the first real test for him in what will likely be a Gonchar-less Pens team.