Metropolitan Division Trade Deadline Preview

PITTSBURGH PENGUINS

Letang’s injury creates a hole on the Pens’ blue line. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

STANDINGS:  84 PTS, 1st in Metropolitan Division, 1st in Eastern Conference

PLAYOFF PROGNOSIS/ STATUS:  Stanley Cup Contender / Buyer

NEEDS:  Kris Letang‘s season is in jeopardy after suffering a stroke before the Olympic break, so a veteran blueliner might be in the cards.  An experienced backup for Marc-Andre Fleury might be desireable.

DEADLINE CAP SPACE:  Just under $1.2 million.

ASSETS TO DEAL: The Pens have a number of pending free agents as well as blue chip defensive prospects.  None will net a top end player on their own.

RUMORS:  The Pens are rumoured to be in the mix for both Kesler and Matt Moulson. You have to think a guy like Chris Phillips would be of interest to them also.  Cap space is an issue.