Pittsburgh Penguins trade rumors: Insider names $20,125,875 Marcus Pettersson most 'valuable trade chip'

The Pittsburgh Penguins face a tough decision regarding their future roster, with Marcus Pettersson emerging as their most valuable trade asset. NHL insider Dan Kingerski pointed out Pettersson's importance, noting his $20,125,875 contract, ending after the 2024-25 season.

Pettersson's reliability as a top-four defenseman makes him attractive in trade discussions. His $4,025,175 annual cap hit reflects the Penguins' investment but also makes him a target for other teams.

"The Penguins probably don’t have a more valuable trade chip than Pettersson, who is easily a top-four d-man who is steady, reliable, and mobile. Based on historical data, he would likely bring multiple draft picks in return," Kingerski writes via PGH Hockey.

The Penguins are in a tricky spot, especially with Sidney Crosby's contract taking priority. While Crosby's future is the main focus, General Manager Kyle Dubas must make tough decisions about the defense. Pettersson could be key to reshaping the Penguins' defense, especially with few long-term commitments on the left side.

Matt Grzelcyk is also on an expiring contract, and Ryan Graves is the only left-handed defenseman signed beyond 2025. The Penguins must carefully consider their options. A defenseman sell-off might be possible, especially if the team falls out of playoff contention. However, trading Pettersson, who has proven his value, could be risky.

Dubas faces the challenge of balancing the team's current needs with long-term planning. The Penguins have star power on the right side of the defense, but their future is uncertain. Depth defensemen might have to take on larger roles, which could hurt overall performance.

Trading Pettersson could bring valuable draft picks but would create a gap in the defense.

Insider Bryan Hayes criticizes Pittsburgh Penguins' offseason moves

TSN Overdrive host Bryan Hayes criticized the Pittsburgh Penguins' offseason moves, calling them the NHL's biggest free agency disappointment. He noted the team's struggles, including missing the playoffs in recent years, and expressed concern about their aging, slow roster.

Hayes mentioned that Sidney Crosby’s contract extension is still unsigned and said:

"I'm assuming that extension will come at some point, but he still has a year left. Sidney Crosby is still one of the 10 or 12 best players in the league right now. He's coming back, and it's not gotten better. They're coming back with the same goaltending tandem. Their defense doesn't have much depth...," Hayes said.

He concluded that without major improvements, the Pittsburg Penguins are unlikely to end their playoff drought, even with their star players.