Penguins Explore Trades, Draft Moves Amid Contract Challenges

The Pittsburgh Penguins, led by general manager Kyle Dubas, are actively maneuvering to improve the team through the 2025 NHL Draft and trade market. They recently acquired an additional first-round pick via the New York Rangers and are considering trading up in the draft, with defenseman Kashawn Aitcheson and center Roger McQueen as top prospects of interest. Dubas is also exploring trade options to shed or swap bad contracts, notably seeking a way to move Ryan Graves' underwhelming deal while potentially acquiring better assets. Amid trade rumors swirling around star players like Mitch Marner, the Penguins are maintaining a philosophy of selecting the best player available and balancing the need for immediate improvement with long-term asset building. The team is under pressure from an impatient fanbase eager to see progress toward championship contention. Meanwhile, the Florida Panthers' recent Stanley Cup victory and ongoing trade discussions around Marner highlight the dynamic nature of NHL offseason moves impacting the Penguins' strategies.