The Pittsburgh Penguins are facing challenges in maintaining their playoff contention in the Eastern Conference, potentially heading for their third consecutive year without a postseason appearance. As a result, general manager Kyle Dubas is likely preparing for a series of trades leading up to the March 7 NHL Trade Deadline. The specifics regarding which players may be available and the type of returns being sought remain to be seen. The focus here will be on potential trade options and landing spots for those players who may be on the move.

It is essential to consider certain factors as discussions surrounding trades unfold. Notably, there is little expectation that players such as Sidney Crosby or Evgeni Malkin will be traded. Both players possess full trade protections and have indicated no desire to change teams. The Penguins organization also lacks any inclination to move either player, who are regarded as franchise cornerstones. A similar situation applies to defenseman Kris Letang. Additionally, Dubas has expressed a clear preference against retaining long-term salary in trades, which diminishes the likelihood of pursuing a deal for Erik Karlsson during the current season, should a move for him be contemplated at all. Therefore, most potential trades will likely involve players who are pending unrestricted free agents or rental contracts.

Among the players considered viable trade options, Marcus Pettersson stands out as the most probable and valuable trade asset for the Penguins. As an impending unrestricted free agent, Pettersson carries an affordable salary cap hit of $4 million and is recognized as a capable top-four defenseman with a solid defensive skill set. At 28 years old, he is viewed as a prime rental option for teams in need of defensive reinforcement. The Edmonton Oilers could prove to be an optimal destination for Pettersson, as they are on the lookout for additional top-four defensemen. Following their recent gamble on John Klingberg, which may not yield the expected results, the Oilers could still benefit from bolstering their blue line with a player like Pettersson. Dubas has been accumulating draft picks over the last year and a half, and with the Oilers in possession of St. Louis’ second-round pick, there could be a potential match. The Penguins previously held that pick and may be interested in reacquiring it, especially given that the Blues are likely to miss the playoffs, which may place the pick in a favorable position within the upcoming draft.

Another rental option from the Penguins roster is Alex O’Connor, who offers versatility, having the ability to play in various forward positions and contribute on penalty kills. At just 26 years old and with a cap hit of $925,000, he fits the profile of a player the Tampa Bay Lightning often target during trade deadlines. While the Lightning may not be at the peak of their previous title-contending form, they are still a playoff-caliber team actively searching for depth. With only five goals scored in 51 games this season, O’Connor's offensive output has not significantly improved from last year's numbers. However, his value lies in his overall contributions that could elevate Tampa Bay's forward depth chart.

The Penguins' strategy during the offseason appeared to signal a shift in focus, emphasizing the acquisition of future assets over immediate roster upgrades. Rather than pursuing a high-profile upgrade, the organization concentrated on obtaining draft picks and signing short-term, one-year free agents who could be traded ahead of the deadline for additional long-term value. Matt Grzelcyk, another short-term addition, signed a one-year deal worth $2.75 million. His performance has yielded mixed results, displaying modest offensive productivity—particularly on the power play—with 25 points in 51 games. However, his defensive struggles have been evident, as he has been tasked with carrying a heavier workload of over 20 minutes a night. In the right circumstances, under a contender that can manage his minutes effectively, Grzelcyk's value could become more pronounced. The Florida Panthers, one of the NHL's top squads, may seek a cost-efficient defensive addition as they pursue another playoff run, and Grzelcyk could align with their objectives.

On the forward front, Anthony Beauvillier represents another intriguing trade prospect. The Penguins likely anticipated his role as a short-term solution and potential trade piece rather than a key contributor. With 11 goals in 50 games, Beauvillier appears on track for a respectable season total of 18-20 goals over 82 games. This output could attract teams searching for additional scoring depth, especially as he comes with an economical cap hit of $1.25 million. The Vegas Golden Knights, given their competitive stature in the league and propensity to be proactive at the trade deadline, may find Beauvillier an appealing option, especially in light of any potential cost constraints.

Rickard Rakell's situation provides an interesting dilemma for the Penguins. With three years remaining on his contract, which carries a $5 million cap hit, the Penguins have no pressing obligation to move him. Currently enjoying a career-best season, he is on pace for 37 goals, and there's a possibility he could reach the 40-goal mark with favorable conditions. Rakell's consistent performance has made him a crucial asset for the team. The Penguins, when weighing the merits of a potential trade, must consider both the possibility of Rakell being part of a near-future playoff push alongside veterans Crosby and Malkin and the potential value he presents on the market, particularly given his impressive scoring output combined with a manageable contract. The Los Angeles Kings could emerge as a suitable trade partner. Solidifying their playoff position, the Kings have faced challenges in recent postseasons and could benefit from Rakell's offensive skills, particularly as they seek to advance beyond the first round.

As the trade deadline approaches, the choices the Penguins make regarding these players will hinge on their strategy moving forward. Whether they seek to retain core players for a potential rebuild or capitalize on current market conditions to acquire future assets remains to be seen.