Penguins Make Significant Trades on Wednesday
The Pittsburgh Penguins were active on Wednesday, executing two key trades that reshaped their roster. In the first deal, they sent Michael Bunting to the Nashville Predators, while in the second, they swapped Vincent Desharnais with the San Jose Sharks. In return, the Penguins welcomed Luke Schenn and Tommy Novak from the Predators, and secured a fifth-round draft pick in 2028 from the Sharks. These moves indicate the team’s strategic efforts to bolster their defense and offensive depth, as they look to navigate the challenging landscape of the NHL and position themselves for future success.
Reilly Smith’s Rollercoaster Journey
Several former Penguins players found new homes on Thursday, adding to the dynamic nature of the NHL trade market. One notable move involved Reilly Smith, a celebrated Stanley Cup champion with the Penguins. Smith was initially traded to the New York Rangers in the offseason, in exchange for a fifth-round pick in 2025 and a second-round pick in 2027. Over the course of the 2023-2024 season, he played 76 games, contributing 13 goals and 40 points. However, after 58 games with the Rangers, the team decided to trade him back to the Vegas Golden Knights. Smith’s return to Vegas, where he won a championship in 2023, marks a homecoming for an "original misfit," a term fondly used to describe players from the Golden Knights’ inaugural expansion draft. His journey back to the team he once called home is a testament to the cyclical nature of the league and the enduring bonds between players and their former teams.
Devils Rebuild with Brian Dumoulin
The New Jersey Devils faced some challenging news when Jack Hughes underwent season-ending surgery. Undeterred, the team quickly turned to the trade market to fortify their defense. They acquired Brian Dumoulin, a 33-year-old defenseman, from the Anaheim Ducks. In exchange, the Devils parted ways with Herman Traff and a second-round pick in 2025. Dumoulin, a familiar face in the Metro Division, returns to the area after a brief stint with the Ducks. Fans may recall his pivotal role in the Penguins’ organization, where he joined the team in the Jordan Staal trade of 2012. Over the years, Dumoulin played a crucial part in the Penguins’ Stanley Cup victories in 2016 and 2017. After signing with the Seattle Kraken as a free agent in 2023, he was traded to the Ducks in the 2024 offseason. His solid performance this season, with two goals and 16 points in 61 games, suggests he remains a valuable asset and a strong addition to the Devils’ defensive core.
2025 NHL Trade Deadline Tracker
As the 2025 NHL Trade Deadline approaches, the Pittsburgh Penguins have been keeping a close eye on potential moves that could strengthen their lineup. The team’s recent trades are just a part of their ongoing strategy to balance talent and resources. The Penguins have a history of making shrewd deals, often targeting players who can make an immediate impact while also considering long-term goals.general manager Ron Hextall and his team are expected to be active in the coming weeks, exploring options to bolster their roster and ensure they remain competitive for the Stanley Cup. The focus will likely be on acquiring reliable defensemen and attacking forwards who can complement their existing stars.
Penguins Trade Predictions
With the trade deadline looming, speculation abounds about which players the Penguins might move and where they will land. Among the most likely candidates is Viktor Rakell, who has been a standout player but has also been linked to trade rumors. Rakell’s combination of skill and leadership makes him an attractive asset, and several teams have expressed interest. However, Penguins’ management appears hesitant to move him, recognizing his value both on and off the ice. Other potential trade candidates include depth forwards and defensemen who can be used to acquire higher picks or established players. The Penguins will need to weigh their options carefully, balancing immediate needs with long-term sustainability.
GM Dubas’ Stance on Rakell
Ron Hextall, the general manager of the Pittsburgh Penguins, seems reluctant to move Viktor Rakell, and for good reason. Rakell has been a key contributor to the team, providing consistent offensive output and strong leadership. His presence in the locker room and on the ice is invaluable, and losing him could have a significant impact on the team’s chemistry and performance. Hextall is known for his cautious approach to trades, often prioritizing the team’s long-term health over short-term gains. This hesitance to move Rakell is a reflection of that philosophy, as the Penguins look to solidify their roster and maintain their position as a top contender in the NHL.
