The Pittsburgh Penguins are reportedly exploring options to acquire offensive talent and assessing the trade value of their current roster. This analysis delves into potential scoring forwards the team might target and evaluates the market for veteran players like Rickard Rakell.
Potential Scoring Forwards to Consider
As the Penguins look to bolster their scoring attack, several forwards stand out as potential targets:
- Jason Robertson (Dallas Stars): An RFA who could command a significant package, potentially including players like Rickard Rakell, Rutger McGroarty, and a first-round pick. The Stars might also be interested in prospects like Bill Zonnon or Sergei Murashov.
- Jordan Kyrou (St. Louis Blues): While his goal total dipped to 18 last season after three consecutive 30-goal campaigns, Kyrou remains a player with proven scoring ability.
- Andrei Svechnikov (Carolina Hurricanes): With three years remaining on his contract at $7.75 million per season, Svechnikov is coming off a career-high 31-goal performance.
- Brock Boeser (Vancouver Canucks): Potentially a more cost-effective option, Boeser, at 29, has six years left on his deal at $7.25 million. Although his goal totals have decreased from a high of 40 three years ago, he still offers scoring upside.
Trade Value of Rickard Rakell and Others
In the midst of their rebuilding efforts, the Pittsburgh Penguins are open to listening to offers for veteran players, including Rickard Rakell. General Manager Kyle Dubas indicated that offers at the trade deadline were not sufficient to move Rakell or Bryan Rust. While Rust’s asking price is reportedly “sky high,” Rakell might be more accessible.
Estimating Rakell’s trade value, comparisons can be drawn to players like Elias Lindholm and Bo Horvat, though they may be valued slightly higher. The trade of Mikael Granlund and Cody Ceci by the San Jose Sharks for a first and third-round pick serves as a potential benchmark.
With two years remaining on his contract, Dubas might aim to secure a first-round pick, a depth player, and a prospect in exchange for Rakell.
Beyond Rakell, the trade value of most veteran Penguins players, excluding Erik Karlsson, appears limited. Kris Letang, with two years left on his $6.1 million contract and coming off a challenging season, may not generate significant interest. Defenseman Sam Girard could see his value rise with more time on the Penguins and might warrant an extension.
Forward Justin Brazeau, who has a year left on his contract and was a healthy scratch in the playoffs, and Tommy Novak, whose inconsistent performance may limit his trade value to less than a second-round pick, might not be worth moving.
Defenseman Parker Wotherspoon, at 28, experienced a breakout season and, at a $1 million salary, presents more incentive for the Penguins to retain him.
