Penguins aren't done making moves; another major trade could take place

The Pittsburgh Penguins made a splash earlier on Friday when they acquired centres Nick Bjugstad and Jared McCann from the Florida Panthers for Brassard and Riley Sheahan, along with a 2019 second-round pick and two fourth-round picks in June.

It was expected of Penguins general manager Jim Rutherford who is known to be quite active and fearless on the trade market ahead of the deadline. And it seems like the GM might not be done making moves as another of his trade baits might be up for grabs in the coming weeks. 

According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, who commented on the situation during the 31 Thoughts podcast on Sportsnet, the Penguins have been looking at moving blue liner Olli Maatta for some time now, and trade talks might be heating up now that Brassard and Sheahan have been moved. 

Earlier this week, the Montreal Canadiens had been linked to the rumors surrounding Maatta. Many believe he could be used as trade bait for the Penguins to acquire a right-handed defenseman.

On Wednesday during the Penguins' optional skate, team insider Jason Mackay of the Pittsburgh Post Gazette noticed that neither Brassard or Maatta were present. According to him, they usually never take the option to miss the skate. Fans thought a trade was on the verge of taking place, however, it was a false alert. 

Brassard was moved earlier today while Maatta for now is expected to be in the lineup for tonight's contest against the Ottawa Senators. We bet many scouts will be present for the contest and, with Friedman's comments, we better keep an eye on Pittsburgh despite today's major trade.