NHL Rumors: Hurricanes & Penguins Becoming Possible Trade Partners

Carolina Hurricanes forward Michael Bunting has been picking up a lot of steam in the rumor mill over the last few weeks. Teams have called the Hurricanes about his availability due to his decreased role with the club. Due to this, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman brought up the prospect of the Pittsburgh Penguins making a push for Bunting. 

Friedman also noted that Bunting's long history with Penguins GM Kyle Dubas and Jake Guentzel's future with the Penguins being murky as two reasons why they could look to target him. 

There's no question that Dubas and Bunting have a history because of their days with both the Soo Greyhounds and Toronto Maple Leafs. Due to this, it certainly would not be too shocking to see Dubas make a push for Bunting. He knows the player very well, and he would give the Pens' forward group a boost due to his offensive production and immense physicality.

Bunting would be more than a rental if acquired, however, as he has two more years left on his deal after this one. Therefore, if the Pens were to make a legitimate push for him, they would need to be open to him being a part of their group for more than just this season.

We will need to wait and see if the Penguins decide to make a push for Bunting from here. 

photo credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports