Penguins trade Michael Bunting to Predators for pair of players

It’s not clear why either team would be making a hockey trade or buying considering their places in the standings. It could be the precursor to other trades.

Bunting is a skilled winger who hasn’t stuck long with many of the teams he’s played for. Meanwhile, the Penguins bolster their roster with Schenn, a veteran defenseman known for his physical play and defensive reliability. 

There was talk he could be a player moved, but the belief was that it might be to a team trying to trade for his brother Brayden. Novak is a playmaking center who can contribute offensively.

Just moments earlier, the Penguins executed a different deal, sending defenseman Vinny Desharnais to the San Jose Sharks in exchange for a 2028 fifth-round pick.

With the trade deadline approaching, it will be intriguing to see if other trade dominos fall.

If not, Nashville strengthens its forward corps, while Pittsburgh makes a swap on its blue line.