According to NHL icon Chris Chelios on his podcast ‘Six Degrees of Chris Chelios,’ the Pittsburgh Penguins are considering trading a goalie ahead of the NHL trade deadline on March 8th. Chelios mentioned, “Someone actually called me on Sunday morning and told me there’s been some talk around Pittsburgh that the Penguins are going to trade a goalie.” Initially, there was speculation about Alex Nedeljkovic due to his contract status and recent performance, but Chelios noted that discussions could involve other goalies such as Tristan Jarry and Joel Blomqvist, the team’s top prospect who has shown promise in Wilkes-Barre this season.
Before the deadline, the Penguins made a move by acquiring Emil Benstrom from the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for forward Alex Nylander and a conditional sixth-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft.
Penguins head coach Mike Sullivan commented on the deal, acknowledging Benstrom’s talent and past scoring achievements in the league, but admitted to not having an extensive understanding of his overall game. He expressed confidence in the team’s management’s assessment of Benstrom’s potential contribution.
While Nylander has seen limited action in the American Hockey League with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, Benstrom is expected to immediately join the Penguins’ middle-six lineup.
Despite this trade, the Penguins have been the subject of widespread rumors suggesting they could be sellers at the deadline.
