Drew O'Connor has been criticized for his performance this season, particularly in defensive situations. He was frequently substituted in for Vasily Ponomarev during crucial moments, despite O'Connor's struggles on the ice. This decision has raised eyebrows, as O'Connor's defensive play has been deemed largely ineffective. The results of this strategy have not favored the Penguins, as O'Connor's line was outperformed significantly when he replaced Ponomarev. The suggestion is that the team should allow younger players like Ponomarev to gain experience and learn from their mistakes, rather than relying on a player who has not been contributing effectively.

Drew O'Connor is highlighted as a potential trade candidate for the Penguins, alongside other pending unrestricted free agents. However, it is suggested that he may not bring significant value in return, reflecting the team's current struggles and the challenges of moving players in a difficult market.

Drew O'Connor is featured as part of the Pittsburgh Penguins' top line, playing alongside Sidney Crosby and Rickard Rakell. Despite recent line shuffling, Crosby has been highly productive, scoring five goals and adding four assists over his last seven games. O'Connor, priced at $3,400/$4,100, offers a budget-friendly option within this lineup, which could capitalize on the Red Wings' defensive struggles, making him a potential value play for DFS lineups.

Drew O'Connor, along with other forwards, is criticized for being trapped around the goal line and failing to get back into the play when the opposition transitions quickly. His lack of defensive presence contributes to the team's struggles, highlighting a broader issue with the forwards not supporting the defense effectively. This lack of accountability among the forwards is part of the systemic problems plaguing the Penguins, as they continue to struggle defensively while trying to execute a flawed game plan.

Drew O'Connor, a pending unrestricted free agent, has had a mixed start to the season, recording three goals and four points but struggling with a team-worst minus-10 rating. Despite a promising finish to the previous season, his inconsistency this year could make him expendable. Pittsburgh might consider trading him for a mid-round asset or a player in a similar situation needing a change of scenery, with potential swap candidates including Arthur Kaliyev, Nicholas Robertson, or Philipp Kurashev.