NHL Rumors: Pittsburgh Penguins Want to Continue to Retool on the Fly

The Pittsburgh Penguins are aiming to retool their roster on the fly while attempting to stay competitive alongside core veterans Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Kris Letang, and Erik Karlsson. According to insider Dave Pagnotta on SiriusXM NHL Network Radio, general manager Kyle Dubas is reluctant to commit to a full rebuild despite early-season struggles, instead exploring opportunities to trade veteran assets for younger players, prospects, and future draft picks.

Defenseman Erik Karlsson, who is in the final year of his contract with a full no-movement clause, alongside forwards Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell, have surfaced as prime trade candidates. Rust lacks no-trade protection, whereas Rakell holds a limited no-trade clause. Pagnotta also suggested the Penguins could target prominent players such as Jason Robertson if they reach unrestricted free agency next summer.