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The Pittsburgh Penguins organization is bracing for a future without longtime stars Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, both of whom are now in their late 30s. As the team navigates this transition, several other veteran players have surfaced in trade discussions, according to recent reports.
Defenseman Erik Karlsson and forwards Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell have all been named as prime trade candidates on the latest NHL Trade Board. NHL insider Lyle Richardson of Bleacher Report suggests that Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas could move these players before the upcoming season gets underway.
Key Analysis
Karlsson's future with the Penguins appears uncertain. Josh Yohe of The Athletic indicated on July 20th that he would be surprised if the team re-signed Karlsson before he becomes an unrestricted free agent next summer. This has led to speculation, with Jimmy Murphy of The Sick Podcast predicting a potential trade to either the Toronto Maple Leafs or Ottawa Senators before the season starts. While the Penguins are likely to keep Karlsson for now, a move could materialize if the team struggles and falls out of playoff contention.
Meanwhile, Rust and Rakell were frequently mentioned as trade bait last summer during the team's retooling phase. However, those rumors faded after the Penguins exceeded expectations by reaching the playoffs. Both forwards are under contract through the 2027-28 season, with annual cap hits at or just above $5 million. Rust, 34, matched his career-high of 65 points last season, while Rakell, 33, dealt with injuries but still managed 24 goals and 48 points in 60 games.
Rust and Rakell could still be moved if Dubas continues to seek younger talent. Rakell has an eight-team trade list, while Rust has no no-trade protection, making either winger a potential trade candidate in the coming months. As the Penguins face the reality of an aging roster, the futures of Karlsson, Rust, and Rakell remain uncertain, and their statuses will be closely monitored.
Originally reported by yahoo.