Multi-player trade, including Luke Schenn, between Penguins and Predators!

The Pittsburgh Penguins are busy on Wednesday evening. After trading defenseman Vincent Desharnais to San Jose Sharks, the Pens are now moving forward Michael Bunting, along with a fourth round pick in 2026, to the Nashville Predators with Luke Schenn and Tommy Novak as part of the return.

Several suitors had been inquiring about Luke Schenn, who has put up a goal and five points, along with a -9 rating in 61 games in Nashville this season, his seventh NHL team over his 17-year NHL career. He signed with the Preds as a free agent in the summer of 2023 and has another year on his deal.

The Toronto Maple Leafs were said to be quite interested, especially with the dream of reuniting Luke with his brother Brayden Schenn, who remains a trade target out of St. Louis for the Leafs.

As for a reunion with his brother in Pittsburgh, it’s hard to imagine the Penguins would be interested in doing that. Reports this season had hinted at the Penguins getting younger and pursuing a retooling, though this move could be a precursor to another deal. This is what insider Chris Johnston said on the matter: 

“While it’s certainly possible the Pens flip Luke Schenn — a team in their position has to consider everything — there’s nothing pre-baked here in terms of another shoe to drop immediately.

“They like his leadership, character and toughness and he’s signed through next season.”

As for Novak, he has put up 13 goals and 22 points in 52 games this season and has been used at the center of Nashville’s top-line. He signed a three-year, $10.5 million contract in the off-season, and now landed in Pittsburgh until 2027.

Bunting is on the move again after landing in Pittsburgh last season in the Jake Guentzel trade from the Carolina Hurricanes. He has 14 goals and 29 points in 58 games this season for the Penguins and is in the second of a three-year deal with a $4.5 million cap hit.

Both Pittsburgh and Nashville currently sit outside of the playoff picture.