NHL Trade Rumors: Penguins closing in on trade as talks advance

The Pittsburgh Penguins are a team to watch on the trade market.

There's been plenty of chatter around the league that president Kyle Dubas is involved in several trade conversations, with a number of his players included in these talks. Defenceman Erik Karlsson is a prime target, after Dubas called out his work ethic to finish off last season. Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell are two wingers who teams continue to call Dubas about, and it could come down to a point if a team offers a first-round pick in their package, Dubas will pull the trigger.

Goaltender Tristan Jarry could be in line for a bounce-back season in 2025-26, but at this point, Dubas would be totally fine with ridding himself of Jarry's $5.3 million AAV for the next three seasons. At this point it doesn't appear the Edmonton Oilers are interested, but who knows, that could change in a hurry throughout the summer. 

Defenceman Ryan Graves is another name to watch. The stay-at-home blueliner was an interesting add for Dubas a couple of seasons ago, giving Graves $4.5 million AAV, which has four years remaining on it. Four points and a -15 rating in 61 games, it's not necessarily money well spent at this point.

As it stands right now the Penguins have 13 pending free agents heading into next season. It's become quite obvious this is a team in transition, as Evgeni Malkin is not expected back after next year, and the Sidney Crosby trade watch is going to be very interesting to watch throughout the next 1.5 years, as the Montreal Canadiens continue to loom as the heavy favorite if Crosby ever gives in and confirms with Dubas that it's time. For now, Crosby hates the trade chatter, and doesn't want to hear about it. Another disappointing start to next season and the vibe could change in a heart beat.

Keep an eye on Dubas and the Penguins. More trades are coming, and it appears they could be getting more significant with each completed transaction.

Photo credit: Bob Lee, Imagn Images