NHL Trade Rumors: 3 Teams Linked To Penguins' Matt Grzelcyk

Wednesday, February 05, 2025 ,

Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Matt Grzelcyk has emerged as a trade target for multiple contenders ahead of the March 7 trade deadline, with the Winnipeg Jets, Colorado Avalanche, and Tampa Bay Lightning expressing interest. 

According to The Fourth Period, all three teams are looking to add to their blue-line depth, and Grzelcyk’s strong offensive season, by his standards, has made him an appealing option. 

The 31-year-old, who signed a one-year, $2.75 million contract with Pittsburgh last summer, has registered a career-high 27 points in 55 games, including 10 power-play points. 

With the Penguins on the outside of the playoff picture, general manager Kyle Dubas is expected to move expiring contracts, and Grzelcyk’s pending UFA status makes him a logical trade candidate.

Tampa Bay appears to be one of the more aggressive suitors, with injuries forcing the team to explore veteran defensive options. 

Grzelcyk’s puck-moving ability and power-play contributions could be a strong fit on the Lightning’s second unit. 

Meanwhile, the Jets and Avalanche are also in the mix, both seeking a mobile defenseman for a deep postseason run. 

“He’s a guy that can step in and help a contender right away,” an NHL executive told The Fourth Period. Winnipeg and Colorado are believed to view Grzelcyk as a cheaper alternative to higher-profile trade targets.

The Penguins could wait until closer to the deadline to maximize their return, but Grzelcyk’s value is rising. 

“Grzelcyk, not Erik Karlsson or Kris Letang, is quarterbacking the Penguins’ power play and making an impact offensively.” 

With a third-round pick seen as a reasonable return, a bidding war among contenders could push the price higher. If Winnipeg, Colorado, or Tampa Bay miss out on bigger-name defensemen, Grzelcyk could be a key addition to a playoff-bound roster.

Photo Creditt: Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images

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