If the Pittsburgh Penguins were to explore the option of selling at the NHL Trade Deadline, the question arises: what assets could realistically be traded?
Despite the team’s struggles, the article suggests that the available options might not be as extensive as one might think due to various factors.
The Penguins’ roster presents challenges for potential trades, with 13 players having some form of no-trade protection, including six with full no-movement clauses. This complicates the trade process, although not rendering it impossible. The article notes that a full-scale rebuild is unlikely, and any potential sell-off would likely involve specific players.
The article categorizes players based on their trade viability:
1. **Full No-Movement Clauses (Difficult to Trade):**
– Sidney Crosby
– Evgeni Malkin
– Kris Letang
– Erik Karlsson
– Bryan Rust
– Jeff Carter
These core players have significant influence over potential trades, making any move unlikely, especially for Crosby, Malkin, and Letang, who have historically shown loyalty to the team.
2. **Difficult to Move Due to Contract:**
– Reilly Smith
– Rickard Rakell
– Ryan Graves
These players have challenging contracts and trade protections, making their movement complicated. Trade discussions might involve retaining salary or taking on another unfavorable contract.
3. **Limited to No Trade Value:**
– Noel Acciari
– Jansen Harkins
– Valtteri Puustinen
– Colin White
– Chad Ruhwedel
– Ryan Shea
– Matt Nieto
– John Ludvig
– Pierre-Olivier Joseph
While these players could be traded, the article suggests that the return might not be significant, likely limited to mid-to-late-round draft picks or other considerations.
4. **Real, Meaningful Trade Options:**
– Jake Guentzel
– Marcus Pettersson
– Lars Eller
– Drew O’Connor
– Tristan Jarry
– Alex Nedeljkovic
This group represents players with potential trade value. Guentzel could fetch a high return, possibly a first-round pick and a decent prospect. Pettersson, despite his lack of offensive production, could bring in a solid return, possibly a first-round pick. Eller and O’Connor might attract second-round picks. The article also notes the goalies, with Nedeljkovic being a more logical trade candidate due to his contract situation.
In summary, the article suggests that while the Penguins may consider selling assets, the trade landscape is challenging due to various contractual and trade protection factors. Any trades are likely to involve specific players with varying degrees of trade value.
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