Why Jordan Staal Turned Down a Ten Year Extension with the Penguins

        Reports began to surface today that Pittsburgh Penguins center Jordan Staal rejected a ten year contract extension from the Penguins. Many criticized this move by Staal, as he would be given the opportunity to play for a stacked team for a long time, but that's the problem. With Evgeni Malkin and Sidney Crosby filling up the top two center positions, Staal would not get the second line minutes that he deserves. Staal is capable of playing as a second line center, and he certainly would not get the opportunity to do so with the Penguins. On most teams, Staal would be a second line center, which is why he will likely leave the Penguins via trade this season or free agency next season, when his contract expires. 
        One possible destination for Staal next season would be the Carolina Hurricanes, along his brothers Eric and Jared Staal. In Carolina, Jordan Staal could get second line minutes, along with more time on the power-play than he would be used to. Rejecting Pittsburgh's offer is that right move for Staal, because he will not excel and reach his full potential as a player in the NHL if he stays in Pittsburgh, playing behind Crosby and Malkin for the next ten years. At this point, look for the Penguins to try to trade him, as they know by his contract rejection, that Staal wants to play elsewhere. It would be a smart move by the Penguins if they try to get something in return for a player that is destined to leave the franchise. Staal will leave eventually, but why not try to gain something out of his loss?