Rumor: Rampant trade speculation surrounding the Penguins

Lots of rumblings out there according to The Athletic's Josh Yohe.

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Published 6 years ago
Rumor: Rampant trade speculation surrounding the Penguins
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The Pittsburgh Penguins are often at the center of the trade rumor mill, and this year is no exception, especially with their average 13-10-3 record 26 games into the 2017-18 season.

The back-to-back Stanley Cup champs are failing to meet expectations this year, and part of that is due to the loss of several character guys over the summer.

Jim Rutherford has his work cut out for him, and while Ian Cole is the main piece he is apparently trying to deal away, there may be many other moves on the horizon, according to The Athletic's Josh Yohe.

In a recent mailbag/Q&A article, he answered several questions about trade rumors surrounding the team.

Several names were asked about on the Penguins roster - including Cole, Carl Hagelin, Ryan Reaves, and Tom Kuhnhackl. He also discussed the Penguins' potential interest in players including Alex Galchenyuk, Max Pacioretty, Tyler Bozak, Evander Kane, and Patrick Maroon.

Yohe states that Montreal Canadiens general manager Marc Bergevin and Mario Lemieux have a close relationship so there's potential for a deal there, whereas he doesn't see Bozak coming to Pittsburgh, despite their likely interest in the Leafs' center. Yohe doesn't believe that Toronto will want to deal Bozak within the Eastern conference - but that doesn't mean it's impossible.

As for Kane and Maroon, Yohe rates the Penguins' chances at acquiring them relatively low, however, he did say "I've heard rumblings that the Penguins are interested in both of these players, in fact. Stay tuned."

He also commented on the goaltender situation - mentioning that Rutherford would want a veteran goalie but isn't happy with the options available on the market, and that he will likely trust in Tristan Jarry to lead the way in Matt Murray's absence.

Lots and lots of chatter out there, and a bevy of talented options to be had. Who would you want Rutherford to trade for most?

Source: The Athletic