The Penguins currently sit 14th in the Eastern Conference after selling two of their biggest trade chips in Marcus Pettersson and Drew O’Connor. GM Kyle Dubas has made it clear the Penguins plan to make more trades. While big moves will be made in the offseason, some pieces will be moved sooner.
5. Anthony Beauvillier
Beauvillier was considered a bust after being traded from the Islanders. After only putting up 12 points across three teams this year, he’s managed to record 16 points in 54 games. He has a great chance to join another team and earn big minutes while also bringing back some value for Pittsburgh.
4. Blake Lizotte
Lizotte, like Beauvillier, was looking for a fresh start. While he’s logged significant minutes for the Penguins, the 27-year-old forward has had new opportunities in Pittsburgh. With only one year left on his contract, he’s a prime candidate to be moved.
3. Matt Nieto
Nieto may not be the biggest name, but as a fourth-liner, he could be a key contributor for a playoff team. He’s a fast, hardworking, skilled skater who has seen plenty of ice time. At 32, he’s played in big playoff games, and moving him could net at least a third-round pick.
2. Matt Grzelcyk
A 32-year-old veteran defenseman on an expiring contract is always in demand at the deadline. He’s had a tough year in Pittsburgh, but a change of scenery could be massive for him.
1. Rickard Rakell
Rakell is having one of the best seasons of his career. A great scorer, strong passer, and fast skater, he is a fan favorite, and it would be tough to see him go. However, if the Penguins want to bolster their prospect pool and fast-track the rebuild, Rakell has to be moved.
In the offseason, I expect Erik Karlsson and Bryan Rust to be on the move. However, with so many moving parts, pulling that off quickly will be difficult—but time will tell.
