Rickard Rakell of the Pittsburgh Penguins is on high alert after nearly being traded, but remains grateful to still be with the team. The Penguins are reportedly in a decline, which means that several of their key players may become trade assets to help the team improve its future.
Rakell was rumored to be available at the 2025 trade deadline, with a potential asking price of two first-round picks and the acquiring team's top prospect. While that asking price was considered high, it doesn't mean the Penguins should dismiss all trade proposals for the 32-year-old winger.
Several teams have been identified as potential destinations for Rakell, including the Los Angeles Kings, Seattle Kraken, San Jose Sharks, and Detroit Red Wings. These teams are all looking to add scoring and improve their lineups. However, some teams that needed top-six wingers have already addressed those needs, which has possibly shrunk the market.
The Los Angeles Kings have struggled to advance in the playoffs, losing to the Edmonton Oilers in the first round for four straight seasons. To overcome this hurdle, they need to add offensive firepower, and Rakell could be a solution. The Seattle Kraken have been actively seeking to improve their team and have been linked to players like Jordan Kyrou in addition to Rakell. Rakell could potentially push the Kraken back into playoff contention. The San Jose Sharks have a significant amount of cap space available and could use Rakell to improve their forward group and help young players like Will Smith. The Detroit Red Wings are also in need of a top-six left wing to complement their roster.
Penguins GM Kyle Dubas has set a high asking price for Rakell, indicating that he is not willing to give up his scoring wingers cheaply. Dubas is aiming to get younger and wants to acquire valuable assets in return for veterans. Rakell is considered one of the Penguins' most valuable assets outside of Sidney Crosby, and trading him could bring in a first-round pick and a top prospect or multiple lower-tier prospects.
Rakell's contract, with three years remaining at $5 million AAV, is seen as a bargain for a team looking for a 30-35 goal scorer. While Rakell has shown the ability to play well with talented centers and contribute top-line offensive numbers, he has also had periods of inconsistency. Despite this, he is a versatile player who can play either wing, shift between being a finisher and a playmaker, and is defensively sound.
Ultimately, Rakell's trade value will depend on what other general managers are willing to pay. While Dubas has set a high price, the actual return will be determined by the perceived value from other teams.
