Penguins Seek Defensive Boost Ahead of Olympic Break

GM Kyle Dubas eyes St. Louis Blues' Justin Faulk to shore up Pittsburgh's blue line

Feb. 1, 2026 at 3:47pm

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Despite low preseason expectations, the Pittsburgh Penguins have exceeded projections and find themselves in second place in the Metropolitan Division as the NHL Olympic break approaches. With veteran defenseman Kris Letang sidelined by injury, GM Kyle Dubas is looking to add depth on the blue line, targeting Blues defenseman Justin Faulk as a potential trade target to help the Penguins make a deep playoff push.

Why it matters

The Penguins' surprising success this season has put them in position to compete for a Stanley Cup, but injuries on the back end could hinder their chances. Acquiring an experienced, two-way defenseman like Faulk would bolster Pittsburgh's defensive corps and provide more stability in front of goaltenders Tristan Jarry and Casey DeSmith.

The details

While the Penguins' top pairing of Parker Wotherspoon and Erik Karlsson has performed well, head coach Dan Muse could use additional defensive support, especially with Letang out for a month with a broken foot. The 33-year-old Faulk, who has 11 goals and 16 assists this season, would bring size, physicality and a strong two-way game to Pittsburgh's blue line.

  • The NHL Olympic break is approaching in the coming weeks.
  • Kris Letang is expected to miss around a month with a broken foot.

The players

Kyle Dubas

The general manager of the Pittsburgh Penguins, tasked with improving the team's roster ahead of the playoffs.

Justin Faulk

A 33-year-old defenseman for the St. Louis Blues, known for his size, physicality and two-way play.

Kris Letang

A veteran defenseman for the Penguins who is currently sidelined with a broken foot.

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What they’re saying

“Adding to the blue line would make the most sense for the Penguins.”

— Steve Silverman, Author (clutchpoints.com)

What’s next

The Penguins will need to negotiate a trade with the Blues to acquire Justin Faulk before the NHL's trade deadline, which falls during the Olympic break.

The takeaway

The Penguins' surprising success this season has put them in position to compete for a Stanley Cup, but injuries on the back end could hinder their chances. Acquiring an experienced, two-way defenseman like Justin Faulk would bolster Pittsburgh's defensive corps and provide more stability in front of their goaltenders.