The Pittsburgh Penguins are undergoing a full rebuild ahead of the new NHL season and are looking to reflect that strategy in how they shape their roster, which still features star forward Sidney Crosby. In that context, general manager Kyle Dubas has made an irreversible decision that affects two veteran players.
After a disappointing season that saw them finish at the bottom of the Metropolitan Division and miss the playoffs, Crosby and the Penguins‘ front office are aiming to improve the depth of a roster in need of fresh faces to compete for the Stanley Cup once again.
In line with that approach, the Penguins are getting to work to return to the spotlight and have begun actively exploring trade options within their roster, led by Dubas’ strategy of using the offseason to build a team worthy of Crosby’s talent and leadership.
The veteran players who could leave the Penguins
The two teammates who could be on their way out this offseason are forwards Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell, both of whom top the list of assets the Penguins are willing to trade, according to a report from ClutchPoints.com.
The Penguins’ stance is to take advantage of the limited number of teams willing to shake up their rosters this summer, knowing that two experienced veterans could be an appealing addition for clubs looking to upgrade their offense.
The details on Rust and Rakell’s situations
Rust is still under contract for $5 million per season, and while some teams have shown interest, there are no concrete developments suggesting he’s close to joining another franchise. Rakell, meanwhile, has three years left on his $5 million per year deal and is also viewed as a potential trade piece in Pittsburgh’s attempt to make moves this offseason.