Penguins in the mix for star forward, and it isn't Duchene!

Pittsburgh Penguins general manager Jim Rutherford has been clear since the start of the season: he is on the hunt for a centerman and was reported to be eyeing Colorado Avalanche forward Matt Duchene and inquired about Detroit Red Wings' Andreas Athanasiou and Riley Sheahan. 

However, another target has come into focus, and a very interesting one considering that its team in his trouble. According to TSN Insider Darren Dreger, Rutherford is now inquiring about a much more affordable option to boost the centre lines of his club. 

"There’s been some speculation as to who might be available as to players who aren’t and Matt Duchene probably isn’t a great fit financially for the Pittsburgh Penguins. But Alex Galchenyuk from the Montreal Canadiens, his name has surfaced," revealed Dreger on Insider Trading last night. 

Galchenyuk has had issues fitting into the Habs' lineup with coach Claude Julien moving him around from line to line. GM Marc Begervin is getting of a lot of heat for his team's poor start. The Canadiens have yet to get a regulation win since the start of the season. 

"We shouldn’t be overly surprised by that, again given the fact that more often than not Galchenyuk seems to be in the doghouse there and given the play of the Montreal Canadiens as of late, perhaps there’s a fit there that could make some sense.”   

The question remains what Rutherford would have to give up in return for the 23-year-old. The Canadiens have also had issues on scoring depth, but with the mediocre start to the season, Montreal has also showed a need to bolster the blue line. If ever the Habs decide to go in rebuilding mode, the Pens might be looking to part way with some prospects and picks.

Definitely a major trade in the works on the East coast!