The Pittsburgh Penguins are making a concerted effort to revive their struggling season, having recently traded forward Michael Bunting to the Nashville Predators in exchange for defenseman Luke Schenn and forward Tommy Novak. With a disheartening record of 24-31-10 and playoff odds that seem virtually nonexistent, these trades reflect a dual strategy of immediate improvement and long-term planning. The addition of experienced players like Schenn is aimed at solidifying their defense, while Novak's scoring potential adds depth to the offense, which has been inconsistent this season.

Penguins General Manager Kyle Dubas emphasized that the team's trades are targeted, addressing specific needs rather than making flashy moves for the sake of appearances. With the upcoming schedule featuring challenging opponents, including the Vegas Golden Knights, the Penguins are hoping the new acquisitions can foster a late-season push, even if their playoff chances appear slim.

Pittsburgh Penguins President Kyle Dubas made significant moves just before the March 7 NHL trade deadline, trading forward Michael Bunting and a 2026 fourth-round pick to the Nashville Predators for defenseman Luke Schenn and forward Tommy Novak. The Penguins also sent defenseman Vincent Desharnais to the San Jose Sharks for a 2028 fifth-round pick. Dubas highlighted Novak's youth, cap-friendly contract, and playmaking ability as key factors in acquiring him, while Schenn's experience and toughness were seen as critical for the team's playoff push.

Novak, 27, is expected to serve as a valuable third-line center, boasting 13 goals and 22 points in 52 games this season. Meanwhile, Schenn, a two-time Stanley Cup champion, brings leadership and defensive skills, having a cap hit of $2.75 million through the end of the 2025-26 season. These transactions mark the beginning of a busy trade period for Dubas, who is confident in making further impactful adjustments as the Penguins aim to return to contention.

The Pittsburgh Penguins made significant roster moves by trading forward Michael Bunting to the Nashville Predators and defenseman Vincent Desharnais to the San Jose Sharks. In exchange for Bunting, who has a respectable 29 points this season, the Penguins acquired defenseman Luke Schenn and forward Tommy Novak. Bunting, currently recovering from appendectomy surgery, has shown promise but his recent injury raises questions about his future contributions.

Luke Schenn, a seasoned defenseman, adds depth to the Penguins' blueline, although his recent performances have not been particularly impactful. Novak's inclusion in the trade brings a younger perspective, and his scoring potential could provide needed support to the Penguins’ offense.

Desharnais' trade to the Sharks was more of a move to clear space, as he struggled to make a mark in Pittsburgh. Overall, these trades highlight the Penguins' strategy to retool their lineup with an eye towards maximizing their playoff chances while managing the salary cap effectively.

The Pittsburgh Penguins bolstered their roster ahead of the playoff push by acquiring veteran defenseman Luke Schenn and forward Tommy Novak from the Nashville Predators, sending left wing Michael Bunting and a future fourth-round draft pick in return. Schenn, 35, is expected to add depth on defense, although his offensive contribution has been minimal, with only one goal this season. His experience and reliability on the penalty kill will be essential as the Penguins navigate the stretch run.

In addition, the Penguins traded defenseman Vincent Desharnais to the San Jose Sharks for a fifth-round pick in 2028. This transaction highlights the Penguins' strategy of reinforcing their blue line while offloading players who may not fit into their long-term plans.

Drew O'Connor's contract extension with the Vancouver Canucks has been confirmed, locking him in for an additional two years at a total of $5 million. Since joining the Canucks from the Pittsburgh Penguins earlier this month, O'Connor has quickly made an impact, scoring two goals in four games. Canucks General Manager Patrik Allvin praised his size and speed, indicating a belief in O'Connor's potential for growth within the team.

The Canucks acquired O'Connor as part of a trade that sent defenseman Vincent Desharnais and forward Danton Heinen to the Penguins, alongside several draft picks. This solidifies O'Connor's position as a valuable asset since he has demonstrated consistent performance across both teams this season, totaling 18 points from eight goals and ten assists.