Pens Morning Brew: 3 players the Pittsburgh Penguins might consider moving
It's clear the Pittsburgh Penguins aren't done making moves before the 2024-25 season. The question is, who's next? Here are 3 potential candidates.
Good morning, Pittsburgh Penguins fans, and welcome to your Sunday, August 25th, 2024 edition of Pens Morning Brew. Let's get into it.
As mentioned several times over the past week, Penguins GM Kyle Dubas has been making strategic moves that suggest a blend of rebuilding while still supporting the current veteran core of the roster.
The anticipation continues as the team waits for captain Sidney Crosby to sign an extension. With Penguins training camp just weeks away, concerns are starting to mount.
This month's highlights were not to be missed. A significant trade saw Brayden Yager heading to Winnipeg in exchange for Rutger McGroarty, a move that could reshape our roster.
We also welcomed defenseman Nikolai Knyzhov from the Sharks, adding depth to our defensive pairings. Let us not forget the Cody Glass trade two weeks ago.
Naturally, fans are eager for more, right?
The big question remains: Are the Penguins planning to make another move, perhaps even more? And if so, who might be on the move?
A few Penguins names that come to fans' minds
First and foremost, it's important to clarify that not all the players mentioned here necessarily should be moved off the team.
There are no hard feelings involved; these names are being considered based on last season's performances, salary cap implications, and overall fit with the team's current needs.
Additionally, some of these players have contractual clauses that complicate potential trades.
3. Ryan Graves
Graves had a challenging 2023 season with the Pittsburgh Penguins after signing a six-year deal.
A trade seems unlikely, especially considering his contract and the 12-team no-trade clause, which only reduces to an eight-team clause in the 2026-27 season.
Graves is frequently mentioned in trade discussions, but moving him may not be the best decision just yet.
Despite the obstacles, he's still young and could potentially have a bounce-back season, which he's undoubtedly aiming for.
2. Lars Eller
Eller was a name often considered for a potential trade last season when the Penguins were struggling, but no moves were made.
Even now, despite his age, moving him might not be the best option. He had a decent season, contributing both offensively and defensively.
Trading Eller for a draft pick could make sense to create cap space, which, as of this morning, is something the Penguins need to address.
1. Tristan Jarry
Ah yes, Jarry... Last season, there was plenty of defense for Jarry here on Pens Labyrinth, and those words were sincere at the time.
However, between the injuries and, more importantly, the inconsistencies, it may be wise for the Penguins to consider shopping him. It's nothing personal; it's just time.
The challenge lies in his hefty contract, which now seems like a mistake, along with his 12-team no-trade clause, making a trade more difficult. This clause might be the primary obstacle in any potential deal.
The team hasn't been shy about showcasing Alex Nedeljkovic over the last few weeks.
Arguably, he's the goaltender the Penguins may want starting in the upcoming season. Moving Jarry is the most likely next move, or at least it should be.