The Pittsburgh Penguins have been the focus of extensive trade rumors this summer, particularly surrounding veteran players like Eric Carlson, Rickard Rakell, and Brian Rust. While these key figures have drawn significant attention, the team might also be considering smaller roster moves.
Currently, the Penguins have 13 forwards on their active roster, excluding promising players such as Ville Koivunen, Rutger McGroerty, and Philip Harlander, the Schul Forward of the Year. For any of these young talents to make the team, roster space will need to be cleared before their October 7th game against the New York Rangers. It appears likely that Rust or Rakell will be moved, but other forwards may also come into consideration.
Noel Acciari is a valuable member of the team, despite modest offensive stats. Former coach Mike Sullivan praises his gritty, selfless play — he ranks third among NHL forwards for blocked shots and often takes on challenging defensive roles. At 33, Acciari could be an asset for a contending team seeking strong fourth-line depth. While Penguins fans may undervalue him, Acciari remains an important player who doesn’t necessarily need to play every game. His salary and role make him an easy inclusion in potential trade packages, possibly bundled with players like Rust, Rakell, or Carlson, depending on the cap situation. Moving him wouldn’t be difficult and freeing his roster spot would be beneficial, even if the return isn’t significant.
Kevin Hayes, acquired from the Philadelphia Flyers in the 2023 trade with St. Louis, has a remaining salary of $3.57 million for his final year on a $7.14 million contract. Despite missing stretches as a healthy scratch last season, Hayes still contributed 13 goals and 23 points over 64 games. Although not at his career peak, his hockey IQ and playmaking ability were evident throughout the 2024-25 season. Hayes also provides veteran leadership and mentorship for the team’s younger players. While trading him might require additional assets to balance salaries, the Penguins are likely to move him to make room for emerging talent.
Danton Heinen, who rejoined the Penguins last season in a trade involving Marcus Petterson, scored 3 goals and 11 points in 28 games for Pittsburgh, totaling 9 goals and 29 points in the season. While not indispensable, Heinen’s presence could block younger players from regular ice time. His $2.25 million salary isn’t huge but could pose cap problems, especially if other veterans like Carlson, Jarry, or Hayes are also traded. Heinen offers lineup versatility and, despite some inconsistency, could be a worthwhile gamble for teams seeking depth. The Penguins may explore trading him to clear roster space and possibly gain minimal return.
Overall, the Penguins appear to be preparing for a roster shake-up this offseason to give their young talents a better chance to earn NHL ice time, while balancing veteran players’ contracts and roles.
Fan Take: This flurry of trade speculation reflects a pivotal moment for the Penguins as they attempt to rejuvenate their lineup and build for the future. Hockey fans should watch closely because these moves could signal a shift in team dynamics and potentially impact the league’s competitive balance in the coming season.
