For much of the 2024-25 season, Pittsburgh Penguins forward Rickard Rakell was the subject of trade speculation. It was understandable, as the Penguins were out of the playoff race, while Rakell enjoyed himself a career year. In 81 games, the 32-year-old winger set new career highs with 35 goals and 70 points.
Now, with the summer just about here, the possibility of Rakell generating trade interest is certainly there. Teams are always on the hunt for skilled top-six forwards, and Rakell putting up a 70-point season undoubtedly makes him an appealing target. This is especially so when noting that he has an affordable $5 million cap hit until the end of the 2027-28.
While there certainly is an argument to be had for the Penguins to test Rakell's market, trading the 2011 first-round pick would also come with risk.
The Penguins are hoping to get back to being a playoff team, and trading one of their top star wingers like Rakell would not help things on that front. The 6-foot-1 forward would be challenging for the Penguins to replace, too, as he is an important part of their top six and power play.
Ultimately, the Penguins are not in a position where they need to rush a trade centering around Rakell. He is coming off a great season and is locked up for multiple more years at an affordable cap hit, so it may make more sense for them to keep him in Pittsburgh as they look to be more competitive again. It will be interesting to see what they decide to do with him this summer from here.
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