Penguins Eyeing Strategic Roster Adjustments in 2026 Offseason
As the 2025-26 NHL season progresses, the Pittsburgh Penguins are already looking ahead to a potentially transformative 2026 offseason. General Manager Kyle Dubas is expected to make significant moves to continue the team's rebuild, focusing on youth development and strategic acquisitions. With a rising salary cap, the Penguins are projected to have substantial cap space to work with, although figures vary depending on the source. Some reports indicate nearly $49 million in available cap space, while others suggest even higher figures exceeding $50 million.
Potential Departures and Trades
Several current Penguins players are set to become unrestricted free agents (UFAs) in 2026, creating opportunities for roster turnover. These include notable names such as Evgeni Malkin, Anthony Mantha, Kevin Hayes, Danton Heinen, Noel Acciari, and Blake Lizotte. Dubas may look to trade some of these players during the 2025-26 season to acquire additional assets. It has been reported that the Penguins are open to trading almost every player entering the final year of their contracts, with the exception of Evgeni Malkin. Dubas would reportedly prefer to trade Acciari, Hayes, and goalie Alex Nedeljkovic to get value rather than risk losing them for nothing. Moving Nedeljkovic would likely result in promoting prospect Joel Blomqvist to a full-time NHL role.
Other players who could be on the trading block include Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell, both of whom are seen as valuable assets that may not fit into the Penguins' long-term plans. Erik Karlsson's name has also been circulating in trade rumors, although his hefty $11.5 million cap hit could be an obstacle. Even Sidney Crosby, despite his desire to remain in Pittsburgh, has been mentioned as a potential, albeit unlikely, trade target.
Free Agency and Acquisitions
With significant cap space available, the Penguins could be active in the 2026 free agency market. However, some analysts believe that Dubas may prefer to explore trades rather than pursue high-priced free agents. One potential trade target mentioned is Jordan Kyrou of the St. Louis Blues, a player known for his scoring ability and speed.
If the Penguins do decide to pursue free agents, they may focus on players who can provide size and physicality. Anthony Mantha could be a target, given his size and scoring ability. Other potential free agent targets include Tanner Jeannot and Nick Cousins, who could add toughness and depth to the Penguins' roster.
Roster Composition and Future Outlook
The Penguins have several promising young players who could be ready to step into larger roles in 2026-27. Filip Hallander, Ville Koivunen, Rutger McGroarty, and Samuel Poulin are all forwards under 25 who could contribute at the NHL level.
One key decision for the Penguins will be whether to re-sign Evgeni Malkin. While Malkin has expressed his desire to finish his career in Pittsburgh, the Penguins may be ready to move in a younger direction. If Malkin does want to continue playing, the Penguins could offer him a one-year extension. Blake Lizotte and Ryan Shea are other UFAs who could be re-signed, particularly if they are not traded before the deadline.
Overall, the 2026 offseason presents a critical opportunity for the Penguins to continue their rebuild and position themselves for future success. With ample cap space and a focus on youth development, Dubas has the flexibility to make strategic moves that could reshape the team's roster.
