Pens GM responds to major trade rumors involving Evgeni Malkin.

The sheer number of sources that were reporting a rumored trade being discussed between the Chicago Blackhawks and Pittsburgh Penguins yesterday were too many to ignore. It seems it was too many for Pittsburgh Penguins general manager Jim Rutherford to ignore as well.

According to a report from Jenn Menendez of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Rutherford has informed her that not only is star forward Evgeni Malkin not available to be traded, but furthermore he went out of his way to squash the rumor indicating that he hasn't received any calls about any such trade.

“None. We’re not looking to move him. I did not get an inquiry from any team,” Rutherford said.

When asked about Malkin's no-trade clause Rutherford stated it was a non-factor, that Malkin would not be traded with or without the clause.

“Whether he has one or not, he’s not an option,” Rutherford said.

It's worth noting that some very credible sources reported hearing this rumor yesterday, but it appears there's no doubt based on Rutherford's comments that even if there were some preliminary discussions, there is no hope of it going anywhere.

If you missed the original reports that started these rumors you can see them here.

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