Pittsburgh Penguins offseason outlook centers on roster tweaks and youth movement

Key roster additions expected from the AHL

The Penguins have several prospects knocking on the door for opening-night spots. Sergei Murashov stands out in net after strong AHL performances, while forwards Avery Hayes and Rutger McGroarty bring speed and skill to the forward group.

These call-ups align with Dubas’s strategy of injecting energy into a lineup that needs fresh legs. They are projected to compete for bottom-six roles and special-teams spots right away.

• Murashov offers stability behind the veteran tandem
• Hayes provides scoring depth from the wing
• McGroarty brings dynamic playmaking ability

Further evaluation during training camp will determine their exact deployment.

Trade and free-agent targets under consideration

Dubas is monitoring the market for a significant addition, though big names remain scarce. The club has expressed interest in Dallas pending restricted free agent Jason Robertson should he become available through trade discussions.

Other names like Mason Marchment have drawn attention if he reaches unrestricted free agency, yet his age and contract demands may not perfectly fit Pittsburgh’s current timeline. The Penguins could also explore re-signing Yegor Chinakhov to a short-term bridge deal to retain offensive upside.

For more details on how these moves fit into the bigger picture, check out our Pittsburgh Penguins 2026-27 roster outlook.

Decisions looming around veteran core

Evgeni Malkin continues to factor into long-term planning, with some speculation that Dubas would prefer to move on and further lower the average age. Kris Letang, despite criticism of his recent play, remains a key right-handed defenseman unlikely to slide to the third pairing.

The team may opt to rest Letang more next season before exploring a trade or retirement after one additional year. A buyout scenario would carry similar financial implications to retirement.

As outlined in our piece on Pittsburgh Penguins face uncertain future with Evgeni Malkin amid ample cap space, these choices will shape the group’s identity moving forward.

Unlikely scenarios and cap considerations

Trades involving players like Pavel Dorofeyev or Darnell Nurse appear improbable given salary-cap constraints and fit concerns elsewhere. The Penguins are expected to add one or two free agents alongside at least one trade acquisition to bolster the roster.

Dubas will continue scanning for impact talent, but competition from other clubs limits options. Playing alongside Sidney Crosby during his final years still holds appeal for potential targets, even if blockbuster deals involving Connor McDavid or Auston Matthews remain highly unlikely.

These steps keep Pittsburgh competitive while building for sustained success. The offseason promises steady progress rather than radical change.