The winds of change are swirling in Pittsburgh, and the entire NHL is taking notice. With the Penguins reportedly on the verge of a major roster shakeup, the hockey world is buzzing with speculation about which stars could be on the move—and which teams are best positioned to take advantage. As rumors intensify and trade chatter grows louder, three prominent names have suddenly emerged as available: Rickard Rakell, Erik Karlsson, and Bryan Rust.

These are not just any players; they are proven veterans with impressive track records, each capable of making an immediate impact for a contender. Their availability has sent shockwaves through the league, sparking interest from multiple teams, including the Montreal Canadiens—who just might have the assets the Penguins are seeking.

As the front office in Montreal weighs its options, fans are left to wonder: could a blockbuster deal be on the horizon? With so much at stake and so many moving parts, the coming days promise to be both tense and thrilling for hockey enthusiasts everywhere.

Photo credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

We mentioned it to you a few days ago, but a rebuild and major fire sale are brewing with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

It was the excellent Pierre LeBrun who first reported the news.

Well, today we have more concrete names.

The Pittsburgh Penguins are offering Rickard Rakell, Erik Karlsson, and Bryan Rust to NHL teams seeking reinforcements, including of course the Montreal Canadiens

Kent Hughes happens to have exactly what the Penguins are looking for.

Here’s the info from the well-known David Pagnotta (The Fourth Period) on this topic.

David Pagnotta: “Penguins are looking to sell off pieces, entertaining offers on Erik Karlsson, Rickard Rakell and Bryan Rust”

The Fourth Period

So these are three new options for Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton, and even though it doesn’t directly concern Sidney Crosby, it could have an impact.

If the Penguins truly trade Rakell, Rust, and Karlsson, I don’t see how Crosby could accept staying in Pittsburgh.

Definitely a story to watch!

Rickard Rakell, 32 years old, recorded 70 points in 81 games this season, including 35 goals.

Erik Karlsson, 35 years old, is a right-handed defenseman who put up 53 points in 82 games this season, 56 points in 82 games last season, and 101 points in 82 games the season before that.

Bryan Rust, 33 years old, tallied 65 points in 71 games this season and 56 points in 62 games last season.

Yes, these are three excellent Penguins players who now appear to be on the verge of leaving Pittsburgh.