Josh Yohe Reveals Penguins’ Stance on Three Potential Trades

According to Yohe's information, teams have inquired about Rust and Rakell repeatedly since last year’s trade deadline. Karlsson, despite his contract, has also received attention after producing 53 points last season.

Rakell and Karlsson, not Rust, seem to be the prime trade candidates on the verge of the season.

"Rakell and Karlsson are the more likely players to be traded in the short term," Yohe wrote. "Dubas doesn’t feel in a rush to move them, but it’s the same deal: I believe he will trade them if the return makes sense to him.

"So far, any offers for Rakell have fallen short of something Dubas would consider."

This comes just days after The Athletic identified the futures of Rakell, Rust, and Karlsson as the “big question” defining Pittsburgh’s 2025-26 season.

The Athletic's analysts project the Penguins to finish with 74 points if the trio stays in place at least until the trade deadline. However, they suggested that earlier trades could significantly increase the franchise’s odds of drafting consensus top prospect Gavin McKenna next summer as they'd predictably win fewer games.

"The big question: How does the presence of Karlsson, Rust and Rakell affect Pittsburgh’s chances of a high pick?" The Athletic wrote. "The sooner the Penguins move on, the better their chances of landing McKenna become."

One veteran that won't be going anywhere, however, is franchise icon Sidney Crosby.

Dubas addressed the comments made by Crosby’s agent, Pat Brisson, who suggested that a trade could be possible if Pittsburgh’s struggles continue, and made clear he's build around Crosby, not trying to trade him out of Pittsburgh.

“Shortcuts cut long runs short,” Dubas said. “We want a team that can contend for the Stanley Cup year in and year out, regardless of what different media members want or where they want to see Sid play. We have to do what’s right for the Pittsburgh Penguins regardless of any sort of commentary.”

Crosby, 38, continues playing at an elite level, is coming off scoring 91 points in 80 regular-season games last year, and recently signed a two-year, $17.4 million deal linking him to the franchise through the 2027 season.