Rickard Rakell: A Hot Trade Topic This Offseason

In the ever-evolving landscape of the NHL offseason, Rickard Rakell’s name continues to surface in trade discussions, earning him a spotlight on TSN as a player to watch. The 33-year-old left winger had an impressive season with the Pittsburgh Penguins, scoring 24 goals and recording 48 points in just 60 games. He also contributed a goal and four points during the Penguins’ playoff run, albeit a brief one, as they succumbed to the Flyers in the first round.

Standing at 6-foot-1, Rakell is entering the fifth year of a six-year, $30 million contract that carries a manageable annual cap hit of $5 million. His versatility on the ice makes him a valuable asset, as he can effectively play all three forward positions, including an extended stint at center last season. Despite his solid performance, the Penguins have been cautious about parting with him, recognizing his contributions and potential.

However, the questions surrounding Rakell’s future could be tied to the aging core of the Penguins. With 40-year-old Evgeni Malkin re-signed, Sidney Crosby approaching 39 this summer, and Bryan Rust recently turning 34, the Penguins’ top-six forward group is becoming noticeably older. The franchise’s limited options further complicate matters; while Egor Chinakhov has made a name for himself, and Tommy Novak remains in the mix, prospects like Rutger McGroarty and Ville Koivunen have yet to make significant strides toward securing a roster spot for the upcoming season.

This precarious situation makes the prospect of trading Rakell increasingly appealing. If the Penguins’ strategy for the 2026-27 season does not include Malkin, moving Rakell now could pave the way for acquiring younger assets or another forward, either directly through trade or via other avenues. Yet, the alternative of retaining a player of Rakell’s caliber is also enticing, as he is poised to contribute significantly next season if he remains with the team.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.