Rumor: Colorado and Pittsburgh engaged in trade talks

Earlier last week the news broke from the Athletic, that the Pittsburgh Penguins GM, Jim Rutherford spoke directly to defenceman Jack Johnson and notified him on their trade intentions for him. And now, it appears a deal is getting closer to being finalized.

The Pittsburgh Penguins and the Colorado Avalanche have held preliminary trade discussions regarding the American defenceman, and it appears the hold up is currently on the Pens, and who exactly they are going to parlay with Johnson in order for Colorado to accept a deal.

These types of trades are more common when one team is trying to sell off a 'bad contract' to another team with cap space. Just ask Blackhawks, Coyotes, Hurricanes and Maple Leaf fans, to name a few. Johnson has 4 years left on his deal, paying him $3.25 million per.

While the Avalanche still have roughly $6.5 million in cap space, according to Cap Friendly, the team is reluctant to take on Johnson's deal without getting a 'sweetener' in the swap. Perhaps a 2nd round pick, or mid to high level prospect will tickle their fancy.

One thing we do know, Jack Johnson has been notified by the team to expect a deal at some point.

And regardless of where he plays, you better keep your head up!

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