Two Familiar Penguins Players Pop Up in Trade Rumors Again

Kyle Dubas “isn’t itching to trade veteran forwards Bryan Rust or Rickard Rakell, but, much like last summer, both are available,” writes Josh Yohe of The Athletic on Monday. Saying that the Pittsburgh Penguins believe trades are the best way to improve their roster this summer, both forwards will likely be discussed in trade conversations.

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He adds that there is interest in both players from around the league, but he’s not sure how much. “Over the past two summers, Dubas received far more interest in Rust than in Rakell.” Rust put up 29 goals and a career-high 65 points this past season. However, he is turning 34, and he’s injury-prone. While he’ll listen, “Dubas will not trade Rust just to make a deal. But if the right offer comes along, Rust is available.”

Rakell rebounded from a slow, injury-shortened start to post 24 goals and 48 points in 60 games. He switched between center and wing; having the ability to do that will make him attractive. Trade speculation swirled at the deadline, but Pittsburgh elected not to move him, valuing his team-friendly $5 million cap hit with two years remaining.

What Do the Penguins Want in Return for Either Player?

Yohe explains that Dubas would not be seeking draft picks or prospects in a trade. Instead, he wants suitable players, even if the draft picks or prospects come as part of the deal to round out the trade. Specifically, he wants young players who can help the Penguins now and in the future.

Yohe also reports that Kris Letang is available for the right price, but the issue there is he holds trade protection. Rust holds no protection, and Rakell only an eight-team no-trade list. Letang might be moved after July 1, when his full no-move turns into a 10-team approved list.

Interestingly, the Penguins have been connected to Darnell Nurse and his trade request out of Edmonton.

Next: Oilers, Tortorella, and an Interesting Rumor That “Hasn’t Gone Away”