NHL Shockwaves: Pittsburgh Penguins and Detroit Red Wings Poised for Game-Changing Moves
Alright, listen up — the puck is dropping fast this season, and the Pittsburgh Penguins are quietly shaking things up in a way that’s got the hockey world buzzing. Now, don’t expect a blockbuster move with fireworks and all that jazz. No, these guys are playing it smart, eyeing those under-the-radar, contract-controlled defensemen to bolster their blue line depth without mortgaging the future. GM Kyle Dubas knows better than to chase aging rentals — he’s hunting younger, reliable assets who can step in and make an impact without breaking the bank or the chemistry. From Simon Benoit’s imposing physicality to the enigmatic potential of Braden Schneider, the options on the table reflect a Penguins squad hungry to surprise yet again — balancing present needs with future stability. If that mix doesn’t get your gears turning, well — what will?
Potential defensemen that the Pittsburgh Penguins could be interested in
Adam Gretz of Pensburgh: The Pittsburgh Penguins have surprised people this season, and they could be looking to be buyers at the deadline. They didn’t won’t be making a big move, and are more likely to be looking for depth on the blue line as opposed to up front. GM Kyle Dubas will likely avoid older, rental players. It won’t be easy, but someone younger with some contract control would be ideal.
Simon Benoit – Toronto Maple Leafs – 27-years-old and one year left at $1.35 million. Defensive defenseman with size and physical play.
Zach Whitecloud – Calgary Flames – 29-years-old with two years left at $2.75 million. Doesn’t bring much offense and could cost a little more to acquire.
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Mario Ferraro – San Jose Sharks – 27-year-old pending UFA, but there might be an interest to extend. Brings some offence and might cost more to acquire than the above.
Logan Stanley – Winnipeg Jets – Pending UFA with size – 6-foot-7 and over 230 pounds.
Braden Schneider – New York Rangers – 24-year-old pending RFA. Hasn’t figured it out at the NHL level yet, but might be worth a flyer on. They could always not qualify if it doesn’t work out.
The Detroit Red Wings should be looking to add a top-four Dman and/or a top-nine forward
Max Bultman of The Athletic: (mailbag) The Detroit Red Wings rank near the bottom of the league in five-on-five scoring. Can see Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman looking to add a second-pair, right-handed defenseman or a top-nine forward. Yzerman could even look to add both.
The Red Wings may not be true Cup contenders, so maybe they shouldn’t give up first-round picks and top prospects for true rental players. If they can find someone with term, at least a year or two, and someone who can play 20-plus minutes on the blue line, or in the top-six, they could consider giving up top assets. An impact player with longer-term like Robert Thomas, would be worth it.
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Goaltender John Gibson has a year left on his deal, and though it may be tempting to extend him this offseason, it may be best to let things play out and see how their younger goalies develop.
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