Yep, you heard that right: sometimes-maligned Penguin Jordan Staal just got signed through 2012-13. And this isn't some rumor, it's on the Pens' official website. As far as the money angle...

The team's salary cap hit will be $4 million per season, with Staal earning $3.5 million each of the first two seasons and $4.5 million each of the ensuing two seasons.

Staal's contributed 10 goals and 11 assists this season and has been a frequent subject of trade discussion (at least among the fans). The timing was interesting. I suppose this might divert attention away from the persistent Pat Quinn-as-coach rumors that Mark Madden mentioned at length yesterday. In fact, a poll on Double M's X page is currently running 63-37 in favor of replacing Michel Therrien with Quinn.

So what do you think of these moves, Pens fans? To me, the Staal deal sounds reasonable, and while I think he's not a bad coach, I think it's probably time for Mad Mike to move on. It sounds like he's probably lost the locker room. Agree, disagree?

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