A quiet buzz is building around Penguins winger Rickard Rakell, and where there’s smoke in the NHL, there’s often fire. According to trusted sources, the phone lines in Pittsburgh are active, with significant interest from multiple teams. This isn’t just window shopping; the latest Rickard Rakell news points to him being a “considerable commodity,” a player teams are seriously targeting to bolster their top-six.
So, what’s the story here? It’s clear that Penguins GM Kyle Dubas is in full-on retooling mode, looking to inject youth and future assets into his lineup. But he’s not giving Rakell away.
Who’s Calling About Rickard Rakell?
From what I’m hearing, the Detroit Red Wings, Los Angeles Kings, and Seattle Kraken are three teams kicking tires. Each makes sense for different reasons. The Wings are looking to accelerate their rebuild and add proven scoring. The Kings want to add more offensive punch to complement their defensively sound structure.
The Kraken, fresh off a disappointing season, need more consistent goal-scorers. Even the rebuilding San Jose Sharks are being mentioned as a dark horse, potentially willing to take on his contract for the right price.
The Asking Price and Dubas’s Patience
Here’s my take: Kyle Dubas is holding firm on a significant return. We’re talking about a package centered around a high draft pick or a top-tier prospect, likely bundled with a young player who can step into the Penguins’ lineup sooner rather than later. With Rakell signed through the 2027-28 season at a reasonable $5 million AAV, Dubas holds the cards.
He doesn’t have to make a move this summer. He can afford to be patient and wait for the perfect offer. If that offer doesn’t materialize now, expect these talks to heat up again as we approach the NHL trade deadline in March. The pressure will only mount on contending teams, and Rakell’s value could increase even further.
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The post Rickard Rakell Trade Buzz: Four Teams Emerge as Suitors, But What’s the Real Asking Price? appeared first on NHL Trade Rumors.
