The Pittsburgh Penguins are preparing for significant roster changes as their general manager explores trading star players to rejuvenate the team. Sources close to the franchise suggest a major trade is nearly certain before training camp begins. Among the key players potentially available are Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell, both of whom have been vital contributors in recent seasons. The focus appears to be on acquiring younger NHL-ready talent, with the Montreal Canadiens emerging as a likely trade partner.
Key Highlights
- Penguins’ GM is seeking younger NHL players, preferably around 22 years old.
- Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell are the main players available for trade.
- Canadiens GM Kyle Dubas is looking for NHL-ready youth in potential deals.
- Rust is a seasoned winger with strong playoff and scoring performances.
- Rakell is viewed as an NHL star and can play center, adding versatility.
Penguins’ Desire to Rebuild with Youth
Pittsburgh’s management has made it clear that the team’s future direction involves acquiring younger players capable of immediate NHL impact. Josh Yohe, a well-known Pittsburgh insider, reported that the Penguins’ general manager is “exploring trade options to get younger” and that a major deal is almost guaranteed before camp. The desire to transition to youth is driving the willingness to part ways with valuable veterans.
“I wonder what you can get in return; Kyle Dubas wants NHL ready players more than anything; what he wants are 22 year old guys that can play right now” – Josh Yohe
This approach signals a pivot toward rebuilding or retooling with fresh talent, potentially sacrificing experience in the short term for long-term success.
Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell: Trade Candidates
The Penguins have identified two key veterans as trade candidates: Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell. Rust, 33, is a reliable winger known for his playoff production and consistent scoring. Over the last two seasons, Rust has maintained an impressive pace, recording 75 and 74 points in an 82-game season projection. His contributions, especially alongside Sidney Crosby, have been invaluable.
Rickard Rakell, also 32, had a productive 2024-2025 season, tallying 35 goals and 35 assists for a 71-point pace. Unlike Rust, Rakell has the versatility to play center, a quality that could increase his trade value. Penguins GM Kyle Dubas publicly acknowledged Rakell as a star player, emphasizing his importance.
“Bryan Rust cannot play center, but Rakell can!” – Josh Yohe
The Penguins’ willingness to trade such core players reflects a strategic shift, and their asking price suggests they expect a significant return in younger talent.
Montreal Canadiens: A Perfect Fit?
The Montreal Canadiens, led by GM Kyle Dubas, seem well-positioned to meet Pittsburgh’s demands. Dubas has expressed a clear preference for acquiring NHL-ready players in their early twenties. Given this, the Canadiens have the assets and prospects to offer a deal that aligns with Pittsburgh’s vision.
This potential trade could benefit both teams. The Canadiens would gain experienced, high-scoring forwards to boost their lineup immediately, while the Penguins would secure young players to develop for the future. This aligns with Dubas’ philosophy of building a competitive team by blending youth with strategic veteran additions.
“Kyle Dubas himself announced that he wants NHL players, around 22 years old, in exchange for his two star players.” – Josh Yohe
With both GMs’ intentions seemingly aligned, talks could progress quickly as training camp approaches.
Penguins Demand Top Returns for Star Veterans
For the Penguins, moving Rust and/or Rakell would signal a commitment to a youth-driven rebuild. Rust’s playoff toughness and Rakell’s scoring ability have been essential, but the team is prioritizing sustainable growth. The addition of younger players could provide fresh energy and a longer competitive window.
For the Canadiens, acquiring Rust or Rakell means adding proven talent capable of immediately impacting their offense. Rakell’s ability to play center offers lineup flexibility, and Rust’s playoff experience could be invaluable during postseason runs. This trade could be a defining moment for Montreal as they seek to strengthen their roster.
News in Brief: Penguins Demand Top Returns for Star Veterans
The Pittsburgh Penguins are nearly certain to trade Bryan Rust and/or Rickard Rakell as GM Kyle Dubas seeks younger NHL-ready players, around 22 years old, in return. Rust, a seasoned winger with playoff experience, and Rakell, a versatile forward regarded as a star, represent key assets the Penguins are willing to move. The Montreal Canadiens have the youth prospects Dubas desires, making them a likely trade partner. Both teams stand to benefit significantly from this potential deal.
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