The Pittsburgh Penguins: Approaching the Trade Deadline
With the Pittsburgh Penguins back on the ice on Saturday, facing the Washington Capitals after the 4 Nations Face-off break, it’s important not to overlook the looming March 7 trade deadline. The Penguins currently sit six games out of a wild card spot, and General Manager Kyle Dubas has been candid about the organization’s goal to rebuild on-the-fly. As the trade deadline approaches, the Penguins are expected to be significant sellers, though there may be a few surprises in store. Here are some key players to watch as the deadline nears.
Matt Grzelcyk: A Defensive Asset on the Rise
Although Matt Grzelcyk’s tenure with the Penguins started with a bit of roughness, he has quickly become a vital asset. Grzelcyk has played a crucial role in reviving the Penguins’ once-struggling power play and is experiencing a career-high in offensive production. Despite some defensive hiccups, his 28 points this season have already surpassed his previous career best. Defensemen, especially those who can contribute offensively, are highly sought after at the trade deadline. As a result, the Penguins are likely to receive a solid return for Grzelcyk, possibly a third-round pick. Given that Grzelcyk is 31 and the Penguins are looking to get younger, it seems likely that he will be traded unless the team has plans to re-sign him.
Anthony Beauvillier: A Depth Addition with Speed
Anthony Beauvillier, another pending unrestricted free agent (UFA), has also caught the attention of other teams. After a lackluster performance last season, Beauvillier has bounced back strongly with the Penguins, scoring 12 goals—nine of which have come from a top-six role. His speed, forechecking ability, and puck pursuit make him a valuable addition to any contending team’s forward group. At 27, Beauvillier fits the profile of a player who can contribute immediately and help a team bolster its depth. While he may not be part of the Penguins’ long-term plans, his value makes him a player to watch as the trade deadline approaches.
Rickard Rakell: The Most Valuable Asset
Rickard Rakell is undoubtedly the Penguins’ most valuable trade asset, and the team will be cautious about his future. Rakell, who is the best winger for team captain Sidney Crosby, has been a consistent scorer and a key player for the Penguins. Trading him would send a strong message that the team is focused on rebuilding rather than competing with Crosby, who is still a significant presence. Rakell’s $5 million salary for the next three seasons becomes even more attractive as the salary cap rises. The Penguins need to ensure they receive a substantial return, ideally including NHL or near-NHL talent. Unless the right offer comes along, it’s likely that Rakell will remain with the team as the Penguins aim to maximize his value in the future.
Alex Nedeljkovic: A Goaltending Conundrum
Alex Nedeljkovic’s situation is perhaps the most intriguing. The goaltender, who signed a two-year extension last offseason, has been on a roll recently, posting a .936 save percentage over his last eight starts. His strong performances have reduced the playing time for rookie Joel Blomqvist, who needs NHL experience. The Penguins also have Tristan Jarry, another veteran goaltender, stashed in the AHL due to poor performance. With two promising goaltending prospects, Filip Larsson and Sergei Murashov, blocked by the veterans, the Penguins may consider trading Nedeljkovic to create more opportunities for their young talent. While the Penguins value Nedeljkovic, his current high value makes him a potential trade candidate, especially with Jarry still on the roster.
The Penguins’ Strategic Approach
The Penguins’ approach to the trade deadline will be strategic and calculated. While they are expected to be sellers, the team remains focused on winning with Sidney Crosby, who still has a few years left in his career. The goal is to balance the need for immediate returns with the long-term vision of building a sustainable and competitive roster. Trades involving players like Grzelcyk, Beauvillier, and Nedeljkovic will be crucial in achieving this balance. The Penguins will be looking to acquire young talent, draft picks, and other assets that can help them in their rebuild while also providing immediate depth.
Keeping Tabs on the Penguins
As the trade deadline approaches, it’s essential to stay informed about the Penguins’ roster moves and player features. Bookmarking THN – Pittsburgh Penguins on your Google News tab will ensure you have the latest updates and insights as the team navigates this critical period. The next few weeks will be pivotal for the Penguins, and fans will want to be in the know as the team makes important decisions that could shape their future.
