In 52 games with the big club, he recorded five goals and 15 assists for 20 points. In 169 AHL games, Puustinen has scored 49 goals, 65 assists, and 114 points.

Could Jesse Puljujarvi make a case as Malkin’s righthand man? After signing a professional tryout with the organization coming off a major hip surgery, he eventually did enough to earn another team-friendly team, signing a two-year, $1.6 million deal following the NHL All-Star break.

Puljujarvi only dressed for 22 games last season, notching three goals and one assist. His skills and limited offensive upside throughout his career may leave him best suited for a bottom-six or depth role.

The one X-factor I’ll add to the discussion is the acquisition of a player not currently on the roster.

Kyle Dubas has hinted at upgrading the top six, hoping to get another quality forward to fit seamlessly on Sidney Crosby’s wing following Jake Guentzel’s departure, but what if we get crazy and facilitate a deal for someone like the oft-rumored Patrik Laine? Laine is a right-handed shot, only 26 years old, who, in a previous form with the Winnipeg Jets, easily hit the 30-plus-goal mark.

Now, a lot would have to happen to land Laine at his current cap hit of $8.7 million, which runs through next season. There’s also the possibility of Laine failing to meet the expectations of being a routine 30-goal scorer. The talent is there, but can he piece it together once again?