In the 2006/07 season, Dustin Penner made a name for himself on a line alongside Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry, picking up 45 points as a sophomore.
He continued his strong play into the postseason, helping the Anaheim Ducks win their first Stanley Cup.
Although many speculated that his performance was exaggerated because of his linemates, it was enough for Edmonton Oilers general manager Kevin Lowe, who offered Penner a significant offer sheet of $4.25 million.
Although Ducks GM Brian Burke publicly voiced is displeasure with Lowe for the large offer sheet, it appeared that he'd get the last laugh as Penner's production went downhill.
Throughout the majority of the next four seasons with the under-performing Oilers, Penner saw just a 63-point high, as his name quickly entered talks of the worst contracts in the NHL.
At the 2011 trade deadline, the Oilers traded Penner for Colton Teubert, a first-round draft pick in 2011 and a third-round draft pick in 2012.
Penner's career hit an all-time low this season, when he not only saw his lowest point production since his first NHL season, but was also the face of ridicule as he missed time due to an injury sustained while reaching for pancakes.
For those who have followed the 2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs, you are well aware that Penner has elevated his game significantly.
Through 14 games so far this postseason, Penner has 10 points and a plus-5 rating. But more importantly than the numbers is the timing, as he picked up the game and series winner against the Phoenix Coyotes on Tuesday, advancing the Los Angeles Kings to the Stanley Cup Finals.
Although Penner has been huge for the Kings through this playoff stretch, the upcoming UFA should still be prepared for a pay-cut this summer, whether for the Kings or another club.
Following th...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Kings
