Once the Pittsburgh Penguins conclude their Olympic break in 2026, they will have just five games remaining before the 2025-26 NHL trade deadline. Based on their recent performance and standing, it seems the team is leaning toward being a buyer—possibly a hybrid of trading and retaining assets—similar to their approach last year.
While players like Jason Robertson and Robert Thomas are exciting prospects to consider, they’re more likely targets for the offseason rather than immediate in-season trades. Robertson, in particular, is unlikely to move now given that the Dallas Stars are strong contenders for the Stanley Cup.
The Penguins already boast considerable forward depth, with talented players such as Rutger McGroarty, Avery Hayes, and Vir Koivnen deserving NHL ice time, yet there’s no room for them on the roster currently.
On defense, Pittsburgh might seek to add a piece—not just because of Kris Letang’s injury and Erik Karlsson’s Olympic commitments, but also to bolster their defensive depth for now and the future.
Given GM Kyle Dubas’s statements and actions over the past year and a half, it’s unlikely the Penguins will be sellers of veteran rental players at this point. However, the situation becomes more complex when considering young players with expiring contracts who might be re-signed or traded.
Ideally, Pittsburgh would target a young defenseman capable of leading the team beyond this season, but such acquisitions are easier said than done. Here are some potential options that might fit the team’s needs:
Simon Benoit, Toronto Maple Leafs
Benoit, at 27, is under contract through next season with a manageable salary of $1.35 million. While not offensively prolific, he’s a reliable defensive presence, providing physicality and size that Dubas appreciates. His defensive metrics show he’s effective at suppressing chances, and past trade familiarity—like the Penguins acquiring Connor Dewar and Connor Timmins from Toronto last year—could facilitate a deal.
Zach Whitecloud, Calgary Flames
Whitecloud, 29, is a steady, less flashy defenseman, having contributed quietly to Vegas over recent seasons. His current contract at $2.75 million offers potential for growth, and given the Flames’ rebuild status, he might be available in trade talks. His defense would add stability without much offensive expectation.
Mario Ferraro, San Jose Sharks
Ferraro, 27, is an unrestricted free agent after this season, making him a rental unless he re-signs. Known for outperforming teammates defensively on a struggling Sharks team, he has some offensive upside that could appeal. However, acquiring him might involve a higher cost, and there’s uncertainty about his future with San Jose.
Logan Stanley, Winnipeg Jets
Standing over 6’7″ and weighing more than 230 pounds, Stanley is a physically imposing player who has only recently established himself as a consistent NHL presence. As a pending unrestricted free agent, his availability depends on Winnipeg’s spending plans—though he could be a useful defensive depth piece if the price is right.
Braden Schneider, New York Rangers
Schneider, 24, fits the profile of the kind of player the Penguins might target, given his size and talent. However, with a restricted free agent status after this season, acquiring him would involve a contractual commitment. His recent performance has been inconsistent, and a change of scenery might help his development. He’s not a top priority for the Penguins, but he remains an intriguing option.
Fan Take:
This potential trade activity highlights how NHL teams are always balancing immediate needs with future considerations, making the trade deadline a thrilling and unpredictable time for fans. For hockey enthusiasts, these moves underscore the sport’s dynamic nature, where strategic shuffles can reshape playoff races and team trajectories for years to come.
