On the Pittsburgh Penguins …
Josh Yohe of The Athletic: Looking at some potential trade targets for the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Matt Cullen – The Penguins wished they were able to re-sign him last offseason. The Wild are in the playoff race, but Cullen hasn’t been a great fit in Bruce Boudreau‘s system.
Benoit Pouliot – Wouldn’t cost much to acquire. He has enough skill to play with either Sidney Crosby or Evgeni Malkin.
Mark Letestu – He isn’t having a great season on Edmonton, but if the Penguins can’t trade for Cullen, Letestu would bring experience and defensive responsibility.
Michael Grabner – Would be a great fit. Would the Rangers deal him within the division, and would the Penguins meet the asking price?
Evander Kane – A long-shot. Could be a good fit on Crosby’s wing. There is the Jim Rutherford–Jason Botterill connection again. The Penguins have inquired before. Fitting his contract in and the meeting the asking price wouldn’t be easy for the Penguins.
Derick Brassard – Have heard the Penguins are not likely to acquire Brassard. The asking price is too high.
Jean-Gabriel Pageau – The Senators may not be available. A younger version of Letestu.
On the Edmonton Oilers …
Mark Spector of Sportsnet: Forward Mark Letestu knows he could be traded soon.
“The obligation of the team is to get the best deal possible,” continued Letestu, who senses a trade. “I’ll go to any team and be a pro about it. I’m in a situation where I’m easy to move. I’m an expiring asset and there may be something they can get for me.”
Coach Todd McLellan thinks the trade rumors are affecting Patrick Maroon.
“I think it is affecting him,” said his coach, Todd McLellan, before the game. “I don’t think Patty has been as effective a player as he has been, in a large part probably due to (the trade rumours).”
There was some contract talks between the Oilers and Maroon.