The trade deadline is closing in and the Pittsburgh Penguins are likely preparing to tear things down.

PITTSBURGH – The time is quickly approaching when the Pittsburgh Penguins decide what direction to go heading into the trade deadline. With March 8 just over two weeks out, the Penguins seem to be leaning toward becoming sellers.

The Penguins may have games in hand, but they’ve been unable to capitalize on their previous opportunities. With their playoff hopes slipping away, insiders say it’s time for the Penguins to start selling pieces and gear up for next year.

Jake Guentzel is the biggest name the Penguins could have available. He’s currently injured, but insiders don’t think that will negatively impact a deal. According to Jeff Marek on NHL Network Radio, the Penguins might also have an asking price.

“It sounds very much like Pittsburgh is looking for something along the lines of the Claude Giroux deal,” Marek said.

Looking for the Giroux deal is nothing new for the Penguins, as Marek’s podcast co-host Elliotte Friedman had a similar mindset on the 32 Thoughts Podcast last week. The insiders seem to be doubling down; however, if the Penguins put Guentzel up for auction, they want a haul in return.

Marek listed the Edmonton Oilers and Colorado Avalanche as teams who could be among the bidders for Guentzel. Both organizations have what it takes to add Guentzel and provide a good return for the Penguins.

“It seems like as the days go on and we move closer to March 8,” Marek said. “The Penguins are going to be sellers more so than buyers.”

If the Penguins are set on being sellers, dealing Guentzel may just be the tip of the iceberg. Reilly Smith and P.O. Joseph have already been named as trade candidates. It wouldn’t be shocking to see names like Rickard Rakell and Alex Nedeljkovic become part of the yard sale.

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