Rumor: Penguins and Blackhawks Discussing Trade

The tandem of Brian Burke and Ron Hextall in Pittsburgh are trying hard to upgrade the Penguins roster but so far aren't having any luck. It's come down to dollars and cents and the financials of any deal hasn't transpired just yet as the Pens are in a salary cap crunch due to some spending from ex-gm Jim Rutherford.

One team to watch is the Chicago Blackhawks as they've been reportedly available to take on some salary and the two teams have discussed defenseman Marcus Pettersson.

Pittsburgh Penguins Can Create Flexibility With Marcus Pettersson Trade https://t.co/yxsmOrYQua
— The Hockey Writers (@TheHockeyWriter) March 17, 2021

The Blackhawks now have more money to work with this season with Brent Seabrook technically 'off' their books and teams have approached them to do so including the Penguins. For Burke and Hextall if they can off load Pettersson without retaining salary that would open up some possibilities for other moves.

The 24-year-old is signed for four more seasons at just over $4 million annually. So far in 21 games this season he's recorded two points.

Keep an eye on these two teams as they're both trying to be active before the April 12th trade deadline.