Ed Hradek from ESPN: The Magazine
Just a thought ...
If the Blues decide to take American-born defender Erik Johnson with the first overall pick in the upcoming draft, I wonder if the Hurricanes would call the Penguins about the No. 2 selection. They could offer top defensive prospect Jack Johnson, the third overall pick in 2005 draft, in exchange for the second choice.
Now, you might ask, why would the Canes deal Johnson, who just completed his first year at Michigan, for the No. 2 pick?
Well, they might be interested in taking another member of the Staal family.
Jordan Staal, who starred for the OHL champion Peterborough Petes, is another big and talented young pivot. Clearly, the Hurricanes are thrilled with Eric Staal, who already ranks among the top players in the NHL. It's not beyond the realm of possibility that they'd like to grab his not-so-little (6-foot-4, 215 pounds) brother, who's among the top prospects in this year's draft.
On the other side of the deal, new Penguins GM Ray Shero might be interested in acquiring Johnson, a charismatic and edgy player who projects as a top two defenseman.
Jack Johnson is also a close friend of Sidney Crosby. The two teenagers forged a bond when they skated (and played baseball) together at Shattuck-St. Mary's in Minnesota.
Such a deal probably won't happen, but there are reasons for both clubs to think about it.
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