NHL Rumors: Pittsburgh Penguins Shopping Jason Zucker

The Pittsburgh Penguins aren't happy with their current three-game skid and are starting to consider making changes to their roster. One player who finds himself in the middle of trade rumors is winger Jason Zucker, he's expected to be offered in several deals this season.

Zucker, who was acquired by the Penguins in a blockbuster deal a couple of years ago by ex-general manager Jim Rutherford hasn't been able to find chemistry with Jeff Carter and Kasperi Kapanen this season. Last season it was much of the same when he played with Evgeni Malkin.

Considering the type of team Brian Burke and Ron Hextall would like to assemble, Zucker doesn't fit the mold at all for their second-line left wing. He holds no-trade protection to cover him from 10 teams but there would be some interest in the other 22. 

The Penguins are cash strapped and have some major decisions to make when it comes to the contract extensions of Bryan Rust, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang. Ridding themselves of Zucker's $5.5 million contract for the rest of this season and next would be of great help. 

While the Penguins are right on the edge of the playoff picture, they are an interesting team to watch because they're expected to be active on the trade front. Zucker is a prime suspect to be moved, and if the team ends up continuing their slide, there's going to be a major shake up coming in Pittsburgh.

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