Penguins Could Be Sellers, but One Thing Might Be Complicated

The Pittsburgh Penguins might be getting to the point where they become interested in moving players. After a rough stretch, trade chatter is picking up. But according to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, don’t expect general manager Kyle Dubas to move veteran players just to make a deal.

Friedman discussed Pittsburgh’s situation on the FAN Hockey Show, pointing to the team’s 2-7-1 record over its last 10 games and three straight losses, including a heavy defeat to Boston. It’s the kind of slide that can push a team toward selling. But the Penguins’ plans may depend just as much on what their players are willing to do.

Dubas Would Ask His Players Where They Want to Go

Several veterans have trade protection, which gives them a say in where they might go. Friedman said he expects Dubas to take that seriously and find out where a player would be willing to play rather than force a move. At the same time, Dubas isn’t looking to give anyone away.

Friedman said Dubas has been pretty honest and upfront about wanting a deal to be worth the team’s while, especially if Pittsburgh needs a player to waive a no-trade clause. The return, he added, would need to include “high picks” or players who are “pretty much ready to play.”

That approach could make it harder to move some of Pittsburgh’s best-known veterans. Friedman noted that players such as Evgeni Malkin and Erik Karlsson have significant say in their futures. Rickard Rakell has an eight-team no-trade list, while Bryan Rust has no trade protection, according to the discussion.

Would the Penguins Move Tommy Novak?

Friedman also wondered whether Tommy Novak could draw interest. Novak is 29, can play center or wing, and has term remaining on his contract. He’s not a young prospect, but his versatility and contract could make him an appealing target for another team. Friedman raised him as a player to watch, while making clear that any potential move remains a question—not a done deal.

The bigger picture is that Pittsburgh may finally be having the kind of season many expected a year ago, when the Penguins were widely viewed as potential sellers but didn’t open the trade floodgates. Now, the team’s recent results have brought that conversation back.

There’s a Difference Between a Losing Streak and a Giveaway

Still, a losing streak doesn’t automatically mean a fire sale is coming. Dubas appears to be weighing the players’ preferences against the value Pittsburgh would get in return. If another team wants a veteran, it may need to offer a meaningful package—particularly if the deal depends on that player agreeing to go.

For Penguins fans watching the standings slide, the question isn’t just who could be traded. It’s whether anyone will offer enough to convince Dubas—and the player—to make it happen.

Related: NHL Trade Talk Recap: Bruins, Red Wings, Lightning & Oilers