Penguins Trade Rumors: A Comprehensive Update
Table of Contents
The Penguins’ Current Situation
The Pittsburgh Penguins are in a strange position priors to the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline. Kris Letang, the defender, could have the team selling for the first time since his initial full NHL season in 2007-08. The team remains at a 10 point gap away from a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference with 23 games still remaining, two games before the deadline. This has led to plenty of trade speculation, mostly with stars like Sidney Crosby and Jake Guentzel.
Sidney Crosby’s Future
Sidney Crosby, the first-overall draft pick from 2005, may be witnessing the end of his era with the Pengings. His $104.4 million, 12-year contract will end the upcoming summer, leaving an indefinite future for the Pengings and their eminent player. Unless Crosby extends his contract beyond its expiry, there’s a high likelihood of him being traded come the 2025 trade deadline in early March. But where could this hockey legend land?
Jake Guentzel’s Trade Status
Jake Guentzel, currently an unrestricted free agent due to an upper-body injury, remains on long-term injured reserve, raising doubts about his future with the Penguins. The Penguins traded for Michael Bunting, three potentials, and a conditional second-round pick from the Carolina Hurricanes at the NHL trade deadline to acquire an NHL player, as Dubas was reluctant to give up on the current roster. Guentzel’s $4.5 million contract spans two seasons after the current campaign.
Potential Trade Landing Spots
Ottawa Senators
The Ottawa Sentinels find themselves in a rather ambiguous position at present. They are not notably good, but also not completely rebuilt. They possess a talented core that seems to be gearing up for competition in the near future. They lack support on the right side of their defense and there have been talks about a potential reunion this off-season, although Guentzel seemingly dismissed them during the Pengings’ recent outing to Ottawa.
Carolina Hurricanes
Carolina Hurricane presents an intriguing option for Guentzel. They offer pieces that could attract the Pengings in a trade, and Guentzel has a favorable history there that might make it a viable destination if the assets align.
Pittsburgh Penguins
It’s crucial to note that Karlsson’s contract still holds at $10 million annually for the next three full years, with trade protections empowering him to dictate his moves. Nonetheless, another year with Karlsson could be sensible given his strong on-ice performance and possession-driving abilities.
Conclusion
Ahead of the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline, the Penguins face a peculiar situation. With stars like Sidney Crosby and Jake Guentzel potentially leaving, the team’s future is uncertain. Potential trade destinations include the Ottawa Sentinels, Carolina Hurricane, and even the Penguins themselves. Fans eagerly await the team’s decisions as the deadline nears.
Visit Us for more details on ->FitFusion Pulse
