Pittsburg Penguins: Three Potential Trade Candiates
The Pittsburgh Penguins are looking to compete for a playoff spot for the first time in four years. First-year head coach Dan Muse is looking to change the culture for the Penguins by doing exactly that. However, the current roster might not be ready to make the push Muse is gearing up for. After trading for a great piece in Stuart Skinner, the Penguins might not be done making moves. There are other needs that need to be addressed before the March 6th trade deadline, and the Penguins could go in several different directions.
1. Brad Lambert - Winnipeg Jets - Forward
One of the Pittsburgh Penguins biggest needs is depth at forward, and having reliable scorers. Brad Lambert gives you both of those, as well as being 21 and still on a rookie contract. Since the Jets are granting Lambert permission to seek a trade, this would be the perfect opportunity for the Penguins to trade for him.
Brad Lambert is an explosive skater with elite puck skills, having exceptional stickhandling, puck control, and ability to evade defenders. He's able to transition from playing offense to defense effortlessly, and shows great potential. However, Lambert tends to be inconsistent because he struggles with effort and focus.
Lamberts value is a little too high, while he is a former first round pick he has not seemed to find his groove in Winnipeg. However, a change of scenery could change things for the young forward and Pittsburg would be the perfect place for him.
2. Brandon Carlo - Toronto Maple Leafs - Defenseman
Another huge need for the Pittsburgh Penguins is defensive zone play. Brandon Carlo is an ideal addition for the Penguins. Carlo was traded to the Maple Leafs from the Bruins last season. But the Leafs could already move him for cap space, as he has played very few games this season. This trade could provide the Penguins with a timely opportunity to add a win-now defenseman.
Brandon Carlo is an elite defensemen with a huge frame (6'6"), statistically he's one of the best defenseman in the league. He's a consistent and reliable leader who brings mentorship to any roster he's on. However, Carlo comes with his fair share of injury concerns and limited offensive production.
Carlo's value is fairly high due to his manageable cap hit, and for the haul the Bruins got for him (prospect Fraser Minten, a 2026 first-rounder, 2025 fourth-rounder). However, due to his injury concerns since that trade his value has likely decreased since then. Carlo could be the missing piece the Penguins need to solidify their defensive core.