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.

As the NHL trade deadline approaches, the Nashville Predators are receiving inquiries about Ryan O'Reilly, who has two years left on his contract at an average annual value of $4.5 million. Despite his lack of no-trade protection, the Predators are handling trade talks cautiously, indicating a preference for significant returns. O'Reilly's trade value remains high, and the franchise is open to offers but not actively shopping him.

Other potential trade candidates from the Predators include Luke Schenn, Michael McCarron, and Colton Sissons. Meanwhile, the Seattle Kraken are expected to be active sellers, with Brandon Tanev and Jamie Oleksiak among those likely to be moved. Tanev's interest has spiked among playoff contenders, and the Kraken may retain some salary to facilitate trades. The Vegas Golden Knights could pursue affordable depth options like Tanev or Ryan Donato.

In New York, the Rangers have been busy, trading key players and may now be looking to move Reilly Smith, who has recently been scratched for roster management. The Tampa Bay Lightning, known for deadline deals, might also be in the market for a depth forward to bolster their top six as they sit with over $6 million in projected cap space.

The NHL trade deadline approaches, and various defensemen are emerging as likely trade candidates. Among them, David Savard of the Montreal Canadiens stands out as a right-shot D-man set to become a UFA. His reasonable $3.5 million salary may attract contending teams looking for depth. Luke Schenn of the Nashville Predators brings physicality to the table, making him a viable option for teams in need of grit on the blue line. Rasmus Ristolainen from the Philadelphia Flyers, while an injury risk, could be a valuable asset due to his size and skill.

Brian Dumoulin of the Anaheim Ducks could serve as a cost-effective rental, while Connor Murphy of the Chicago Blackhawks might attract attention due to his potential for a fresh start. Carson Soucy of the Vancouver Canucks is becoming an unwanted player following a roster change, making him a low-cost option for teams. Younger players like Mario Ferraro from the San Jose Sharks or Bowen Byram of the Buffalo Sabres could command a higher price but represent long-term investments.