Report: Penguins linked to Oilers in hot trade rumor

On yesterday’s edition of Sportsnet’s Hockey Central program NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reiterated the Pittsburgh Penguins’ desire to fill their third line center position via trade. While Pens GM Jim Rutherford acquired Riley Sheahan from the Detroit Red Wings last month to fill the vacancy, it’s clear that Sheahan is really more of a 4th line grinder than a 3rd line contributor.

So, who does that leave for the Pens to pursue? Friedman points to the struggling Edmonton Oilers and pivot Mark Letestu. The 32-year-old is having a remarkably productive season with six goals and 12 points in 27 games this season, following up on a 16 goal, 35 point campaign in 2016-17.

Pens fans may remember that Letestu broke into the NHL with the Penguins over the course of three season from 2009-2012. Is it possible that the team would bring him back for another spin? With the way the Oilers are playing right now… don’t count out anything. Oilers GM Peter Chiarelli has painted himself into a corner and local sources indicate that he could be ready to make a move at any moment.