Penguins Rumors: 3 Players Linked to Trades to Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh Penguins general manager Ron Hextall is trying to upgrade his hockey club before the March 3 trade deadline but to this point, no luck. Hextall is looking for a number of pieces, which include a top-four defenseman, a veteran goaltender and a third-line center. Here's three players who have recently been linked to a move to the Penguins:

Jakob Chychrun, Arizona Coyotes

The price tag remains significant however the Penguins have interest in Coyotes stud defenseman Jakob Chychrun. He'd immediately bolster their blue line and give them another weapon for the power play. Chychrun is a true number one defenseman and would be fun to watch playing alongside Kris Letang. His contract is outstanding, with a $4.6 million cap hit for the next two seasons. Good reason to pay up to the Coyotes wants and needs.

Thatcher Demko, Vancouver Canucks

A surprising trade candidate out of Vancouver, word is Thatcher Demko would be open to a trade but has yet to request one. The Canucks have gone through a roller coaster season and so has Demko, as he's currently on the shelve expected back in a couple of weeks. His numbers are down this season but he's a Vezina caliber type of netminder who is signed through 2025-26 season at $5 million per season. The Penguins don't have a number one goalie signed for next season and have the cap space to fit in Demko long term.

Sam Bennett, Florida Panthers

Florida Panthers forward Sam Bennett has been linked to the Penguins as they search for some help up front. He's capable of playing a shut-down role on a third line or jumping up to the top six to play down the middle or on the wing. Bennett would be a great fit in Pittsburgh as he plays an in your face style the team could use more of. There's trade history between these two teams so certainly potential we see another deal go down before the March 3 trade deadline.

Photo credit: Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports