Orpik would like to stay in Pittsburgh

From Rob Rossi of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review:

Orpik’s desire is to stay with the Penguins, who selected him 18th overall in the 2000 NHL Entry Draft. He has appeared in no fewer than 64 games each of the past four seasons. Orpik’s agent, Lewis Gross, would not say Wednesday if the Penguins have presented a contract offer. However, indications are the club will soon make a formal offer, if it has not already.

Many around the NHL believe Orpik could command offers of $4 million annually from other teams. He is thought to be willing to give the Penguins a so-called “hometown discount” if they provide him a long-term deal.

Read the entire article here.

We will see in time, just how much of a discount Orpik is willing to take. If the rugged defenseman isn’t signed by July 1, I have my doubts as to whether he will be back.