Insider: One of 3 Penguins Trade Candidates Will NOT Be Dealt

The Pittsburgh Penguins are in the rebuild business this season. This, we all know. We also know that they have three legitimate veteran star trade candidates that could bring back a nice return from a contending team. But one of those three will not be dealt, according to a 'bold prediction' by insider Josh Yohe of The Athletic.

There will be enormous amounts of trade speculation around the Penguins this season. Erik Karlsson and Rickard Rakell may well be traded by the deadline. Despite the good start, this is a rebuilding team. I have a feeling, though, that Rust will remain for a multitude of reasons. He’s a popular man in the organization, to say the least.

While Rust's full no-movement clause is no longer in place as of this season, the Penguins do not have to move him. With three more seasons at a reasonable $5.125 million cap hit, he's not breaking the bank, and his continued presence on the top line will certainly keep Sidney Crosby happy.

The asking price for any team even thinking of trying to pry him loose has been called "especially high." Some have suggested that a first-round pick and a young player with an elite pedigree would be the cost.

Rust, 33, was a part of the 2016 & '17 Stanley Cup championships, and has been a strong two-way contributor ever since, including 20+ goals in each of the last six seasons. His work ethic and tenacious play make him a favorite around the Pittsburgh locker room. Trading him would leave a huge hole in the heart of the team.