Pittsburgh Penguins face potential veteran trades amid regression

The Pittsburgh Penguins are facing significant roster changes following a sharp regression at the start of the 2026-27 season. General manager Kyle Dubas is reportedly prepared to trade veteran assets to rebuild the team, seeking high draft picks or ready-to-play NHL players in return.

Key veterans identified in trade discussions include Erik Karlsson, Evgeni Malkin, Rickard Rakell, and Bryan Rust. These players hold varying levels of trade protection: Karlsson has a full no-movement clause, Rakell has an eight-team no-trade list, and Malkin must provide a three-team trade list. Bryan Rust is currently the only veteran without trade protection but is on injured reserve.

Reporter Elliotte Friedman noted that Dubas intends to respect the wishes of veteran leaders like Malkin and Karlsson regarding their destinations. On the ice, coach Dan Muse has attempted to spark the team by reuniting Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin on the same line during recent play.