NHL Rumors: 2 Pittsburgh Penguins Trade Candidates

The Pittsburgh Penguins have had a successful offseason to this point. General manager Ron Hextall has been busy locking up some core players and pulling off a couple of major trades to refigure his blue line. While business has slowed down of late, expect to see the Penguins active on the trade market, with these two Penguins likely being involved next:

Kasperi Kapanen

Even with the Penguins signing Kasperi Kapanen to a two-year contract, it doesn't feel like the right fit. Kapanen's struggled throughout last season to be an offensive weapon and for some reason, head coach Mike Sullivan doesn't see him fit in a penalty killing, more defensive role. Worth noting, while his news contract was for $3.2 million annually, it has no trade protection. Kapanen could be moved at will and if he gets off to a slow start next season, look for the Penguins to gauge the market on the speedy winger. In 2021-22, the 26-year-old recorded 32 points in 79 games. 

Marcus Pettersson

Pettersson is listed because Jason Zucker has become untradeable. Many felt the Penguins were going to keep Michael Matheson and move Pettersson, however we all saw how that played out with the Montreal Canadiens move for Jeff Petry. 
 Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Pettersson is someone is still holds some value on the market because of his age, and if he can take his game to the next level in 2022-23, his $4.02 million cap hit the next three seasons will be quite appealing. The lanky blueliner recorded 19 points in 72 games last season and it will be curious to see if he gets any power-play reps on the second unit this upcoming season. 

Photo credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports