PHN reported yesterday that Hextall is the current favorite......Mario is supposedly impressed with his talent evaluation work with the Cryers.
I've also read (independently) that Hextall knows how to rub people the wrong way; and for that reason, is fairly good at making enemies. If true, makes me wonder if Mario is looking for the polar-opposite of JR (meaning he was an itchy trigger-finger, media-friendly guy). So, we'll see how this progresses.
This Dee Rizzo also is reportedly getting good early reviews; though other than "knowing everyone", I still don't know exactly what else he brings to the table. But my personal assumption/guess is that Sid and/or Geno might be advocating for him. I wonder if he's possibly thought-of as the glue that keeps those two satisifed to remain Penguins long-term (whether or not that's a good idea).
Or, perhaps he becomes ownership's new "face-of-the-franchise"/media schmoozer (and intermediary between Mario, Hextall, and the press/public).