Thanks to @gmen81 for the really quick negotiations. I think I first reached out back in October, but nothing ever came to fruition. Finally, I sent in an offer (which was essentially the above) on Friday, and this came together quickly thereafter.
While not happy with the hit in rep I’ll take for extending Zaitsev in October and then trading him now, I also feel like Letang is the difference maker I need come playoff time; assuming the Pens make the playoffs. The bigger hit for me is moving O’Brien and Brook, both of whom are expansion ineligible, and good (O’Brien) to great (Brook) prospects. However, with Kotkaniemi, Armia, Hart, and Voracek, I feel as though I’m set for Habs and Philly rep, so the two were somewhat expendable, especially when bringing in Letang.
With Letang comes huge health risks, and an increase in roster age. But the Pens will never be a rebuilding team, and my team is in a “win now” mode.