Rumor: Trade brewing between Pens and Wings?

In his latest article for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Pittsburgh Penguins beat reporter Jason Mackey analyzes the glaring hole on the team’s third line center position thanks to the departure of former Pens center turned Nashville Predators center Nick Bonino. The perfect fit for the spot in Mackey’s eyes? Detroit Red Wings pivot Riley Sheahan. 

According to Mackey, Wings GM Ken Holland has received several calls inquiring about Sheahan’s availability due to the fact that the team is roughly $3 million over the salary cap and must shed salary before the beginning of the season. So, would Sheahan be a fit for the Pens and what would they have to give up in a trade?

Mackey points to former first round pick Derrick Pouliot as a possibility. The young defender could benefit from a change in scenery and would instantly become a top-four defender on a weak Red Wings blue line. For Sheahan, the change of scenery could be a motivating factor, as well. The 25-year old pivot scored just a single goal and 13 points in 2016-17 but is just one season removed from a 14 goal, 25 point campaign. Could he regain his confidence in Pittsburgh? 

Just look at the career turnarounds that Bonino and former Edmonton Oilers cast-off Justin Schultz have experienced in Pittsburgh. Could Sheahan be the next beneficiary of a move to Steel Town?