Penguins Rumors: Interesting Development On Matt Grzelcyk's Future With Pittsburgh

Tuesday, March 18, 2025

The Pittsburgh Penguins did not move pending UFA defenseman Matt Grzelcyk at the trade deadline, despite interest from other teams. 

According to Dan Kingerski of Pittsburgh Hockey Now, the Penguins have some level of interest in re-signing him, though no serious contract talks have taken place yet. “There was interest. Teams [were] kicking tires, but in the end, we got through the deadline, and he remains a member of our team,” Penguins GM Kyle Dubas said. 

With Pittsburgh’s left-side defensive depth uncertain beyond Ryan Graves, Ryan Shea, and Vladislav Kolyachonok, keeping Grzelcyk could be a logical move.

Grzelcyk has had a strong season, posting a career-best 31 points with 13 games remaining. His play has improved as the year has gone on, particularly in 2025, where he has excelled alongside Erik Karlsson. 

Over his last 23 games, he has recorded nine points, a team-best plus-9 rating, and is averaging over 20 minutes per game. Penguins coach Mike Sullivan praised his game, saying, “When he’s at his best, his anticipation skills on both sides of the puck allow him to be effective.” 

The 31-year-old defenseman has settled into Pittsburgh’s system and believes his confidence has returned after leaving Boston.

Grzelcyk has expressed interest in staying with the Penguins beyond this season, acknowledging how the team has helped him get his career back on track. 

“There’s still very important games for us, and obviously you want to be playing your best hockey,” he said. 

With Owen Pickering expected to make the jump next season and P.O Joseph and Conor Timmins still RFAs, Grzelcyk’s steady presence could make him a valuable piece moving forward.

Photo Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images

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