Penguins Rumors: Pittsburgh Has Big Decision To Make With Marcus Pettersson

This offseason, the Pittsburgh Penguins face a big decision regarding defenseman Marcus Pettersson.

As Pettersson enters the final year of his contract, boasting a solid performance including a career-high 30 points and a plus-28 rating, the team must carefully consider their next steps.

His current contract, valued at $4.025 million annually, along with his top-four defenseman role and steady presence, underscores his value to the team.

Marcus Pettersson looks off the 2-on-1 and ends the game himself 🚨 pic.twitter.com/Pr9ksSmi7f

— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) January 28, 2024

Pettersson signed a 5-year, $20.12M contract ($4.02M AAV) back in 2020.

However, the Penguins' recent strategy shift toward embracing youth and transitioning from veteran contracts presents a dilemma.

The trade of Jake Guentzel earlier in the season for younger assets signals a possible change in direction, which could influence Pettersson's future.

At 28, Pettersson finds himself potentially misaligned with this youthful pivot, despite being a reliable player who could contribute significantly to any team aiming for the Stanley Cup.

Pettersson: "Keep staying hungry here, boys. Hungry, but smart, eh?"

Hype man Marcus Pettersson was mic'd up for the Penguins' comeback win in New Jersey.#LetsGoPens | @forthepeople pic.twitter.com/cR92gNsVZS

— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) April 4, 2024

Over his six years with Pittsburgh, Pettersson has recorded 13 goals, 110 assists, 123 total points, a +70 plus/minus rating, 563 blocked shots, and 618 hits across 395 games played.

Pettersson does hold an eight-team no-trade list, which could potentially complicate any trade. Regardless, it's definitely a possibility the Penguins opt to shop him while his trade value is high, rather than lose him in free agency next summer, if the team is still not competitive.

Whether the Penguins choose to secure his services with a new contract, explore trade options to capitalize on his current market value, or allow him to play out his contract, it will be an interesting situation to follow.

Photo Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports