The NHL trade deadline is almost here, and the Pittsburgh Penguins are in a fascinating position. With just days to go until the March 6th, 3pm ET cutoff, the Penguins are tied for third in the Eastern Conference, and they’ve been the busiest team on the trade market this season. But here’s where it gets intriguing: despite their active roster shuffling, General Manager Kyle Dubas is far from finished. Could he pull off another surprise move before time runs out? Let’s dive into what’s at stake and where the Penguins might be headed.
The Penguins have already made significant moves this season, acquiring Egor Chinakhov, Stuart Skinner, and Sam Girard while also dealing Brett Kulak. Dubas has made it clear he’s focused on both immediate success and long-term stability. But here’s where it gets controversial: will Dubas stick to his strategy of avoiding short-term rentals, or could he make an unexpected splash? One thing’s for sure—don’t expect the Penguins to chase big-name free agents like Artemi Panarin or Rasmus Andersson.
Areas to Watch
1. Draft Pick Treasure Trove
The Penguins are sitting on a goldmine of draft picks over the next few years, with multiple second and third-round selections in 2026, 2027, 2028, and 2029. This surplus gives them incredible flexibility to target young NHL talent, like defenseman Zach Whitecloud. But here’s the part most people miss: with so many picks in hand, Dubas could afford to take a risk on a player who might not be an immediate star but has long-term potential.
2. Connor Clifton’s Future
Clifton, an impending free agent, has been a solid contributor on the third pair. However, if the Penguins bring in another defenseman, Clifton could become trade bait to recoup assets. Is it better to keep him for depth, or cash in now? It’s a question that divides fans and analysts alike.
3. Stuart Skinner’s Role
Skinner’s future is a hot topic, especially with Arturs Silovs emerging as a reliable option in net. Could the Penguins move Skinner to a goalie-needy team like Ottawa or Vegas? Or will they hold onto him for depth? This is the part most people miss—goalies can be traded at any time, and Dubas might see an opportunity to capitalize.
4. Justin Brazeau’s Career Year
Brazeau is having a breakout season, but his production has slowed recently. With his contract up next year, now might be the perfect time to trade him while his value is high. But here’s where it gets controversial: is it worth selling high on Brazeau, or should the Penguins keep him as a key piece of their third line? It’s a risky move, but one Dubas might consider.
Potential Trade Targets
Right-Side Defense
The Penguins’ right side is the clear area for improvement. Names like Dougie Hamilton, Justin Faulk, or even a rental like Connor Murphy could be in play. But here’s the part most people miss: Dubas might go after a lesser-known player who fits his long-term vision. Could someone like Zach Whitecloud be the surprise addition?
Center Depth
With Sidney Crosby sidelined (though expected to return soon), center depth is a concern. Evgeni Malkin has shifted to the wing, leaving the Penguins thin down the middle. Is Vincent Trocheck a possibility, or will Dubas look for a younger, more flexible option? And this is the part most people miss: Malkin’s future as a center beyond 2026-27 could influence Dubas’s decision-making.
Expect the Unexpected
Dubas has a reputation for operating in the shadows, pulling off moves that no one sees coming. From the Jarry/Skinner trade to drafting Ben Kindel 11th overall, he’s not afraid to defy expectations. Could he add someone like Bobby McMann or another under-the-radar player? Given the Penguins’ draft surplus and cap space, the possibilities are endless.
Thought-Provoking Question: With so much flexibility and a history of bold moves, what’s the most surprising trade Dubas could pull off before the deadline? Do you think he’ll stick to his long-term strategy, or make a short-term splash? Let us know in the comments!
