The Pittsburgh Penguins have taken a nice step in the right direction with their retool this season. Because of this, it would not be particularly surprising if they looked to strengthen their roster during the off-season. Yet, with the Penguins still focused on the future, they should be looking to add players who would have the potential to benefit them long-term. Because of this, one player who the Penguins would be wise to pursue during the off-season is Winnipeg Jets forward Cole Perfetti. Perfetti was recently mentioned as a potential trade candidate to watch during the off-season by Bleacher Report's Adam Gretz [https://bleacherreport.com/articles/25406812-5-nhl-restricted-free-agents-could-be-traded-2026-offseason]. If the Jets do end up making Perfetti available, the Penguins should consider making a push for him. At 24 years old, Perfetti could be an excellent fit on a Penguins team on the rise. The 2020 tenth-overall pick has shown promise early on in his career and still has the potential to hit a new level. Perhaps getting a fresh start on a team like the Penguins could help him do that next season. Perfetti's ability to play both center and on the wing adds to his appeal. Due to this, he would have the potential to work well in the Penguins' top nine next season if acquired. He would also give them another skilled option to work with on their power play. In 53 games this season with Winnipeg, Perfetti has nine goals and 26 points. This is after he scored 18 goals and had a career-high 50 points in 82 games with Winnipeg last season.
