The Pittsburgh Penguins' trade activity is usually a hot topic in February or March, but this year, the discussion starts early.
The Penguins are very much in seller mode, and rightfully so. Lars Eller's been dealt, and GM Kyle Dubas appears set to send a number of other players on their way in advance of the March 7 NHL trade deadline, per Josh Yohe of the Athletic.
With the team's season spiraling out of control, the priority now becomes stockpiling assets for future use. So, who's most likely to get traded?
Josh Yohe has broken it down into several categories. We will focus on the four players who have the highest chances of getting traded.
Tristan Jarry: Kyle Dubas' five-year deal for Jarry in 2023 has aged poorly. While it's unlikely any team would bite, desperate goaltending needs can lead to surprising moves. Jarry's inconsistency and term make him a tough sell, but he's available if anyone's interested.
Ryan Graves: Not much needs to be said here, it's a stretch if anyone will actually try to acquire him, but he might be in the conversation as to someone the Penguins have no issue giving up.
Marcus Pettersson: A favorite top-four defenseman and great human being, the Swede is due for unrestricted free agency on July 1. Lacking a no-trade clause, he's ripe for trade action. The Penguins could net at least a second-round pick, if not more, for him. His loss will hurt, but it's all but guaranteed.
Rickard Rakell: Rakell's resurgence this season has elevated his value. While his contract may scare off some suitors, the Penguins should trade him in an effort to shed cap space. While the return likely won't be large, teams are always looking to add top-six wingers. Trading Rakell would amount to a meaningful step in reshaping the roster.
Here are a few other divisions that Yohe mentioned including which Penguins players would fall into those categories:
As the Penguins look toward the deadline, expect a flurry of moves that will retool for the future. With the current season going nowhere, it's time to look beyond the present and prepare for what's next.
POLL | ||
NOVEMBRE 29 | 51 ANSWERS Josh Yohe of the Athletic Reveals Which Penguins Players Could Possibly be Traded Next Do you agree with Josh Yohe's categories? | ||
Yes | 32 | 62.7 % |
No | 19 | 37.3 % |
List of polls |