Penguins Seek Defensive Reinforcements Ahead of Playoff Push

Pittsburgh GM Kyle Dubas reportedly looking to bolster blue line before trade deadline

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The Pittsburgh Penguins, surprisingly in playoff position despite injuries to key defensemen, are reportedly looking to add a defenseman before the NHL trade deadline on March 6. With Kris Letang and Jack St. Ivany sidelined with broken bones, and Erik Karlsson playing through an injury, the Penguins' blue line has taken a beating, prompting GM Kyle Dubas to explore upgrade options.

Why it matters

The Penguins' unexpected playoff positioning this season has been a pleasant surprise, but their defensive depth has been tested by injuries. Shoring up the blue line could be crucial for Pittsburgh to maintain their playoff push and end their three-year postseason drought.

The details

According to reports, Penguins GM Kyle Dubas is looking to acquire a defenseman before the March 6 trade deadline. The team has been hit hard by injuries on the back end, with Kris Letang (foot fracture) and Jack St. Ivany (broken hand) both sidelined for extended periods. Even veteran Erik Karlsson has been playing through an injury. With the Penguins' schedule about to intensify, Dubas may feel the need to add defensive depth to support the team's surprising playoff positioning.

  • Kris Letang is expected to return by the end of February or early March.
  • Jack St. Ivany is not expected back until the end of March.
  • The NHL trade deadline is on March 6, 2026.

The players

Kyle Dubas

The general manager of the Pittsburgh Penguins, who is reportedly exploring options to bolster the team's defensive corps ahead of the trade deadline.

Kris Letang

A veteran Penguins defenseman who is currently sidelined with a foot fracture.

Jack St. Ivany

A Penguins defenseman who is out with a broken bone in his hand.

Erik Karlsson

A Penguins defenseman who has been playing through an injury.

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What they’re saying

“League and team sources have told me there is a growing feeling that Dubas will attempt to land a defenseman before the March 6 NHL trade deadline.”

— Josh Yohe, Reporter (The Athletic)

“We can also bet that Dubas will deal one or two veteran players this season, further clearing space for future players but weakening the present.”

— Dan Kingerski, Reporter (Pittsburgh Hockey Now)

What’s next

The Penguins will have until the March 6 trade deadline to make a move to bolster their defensive corps. The team's performance and injury situation in the coming weeks will likely determine Dubas' approach and the specific targets he pursues.

The takeaway

The Penguins' surprising playoff positioning this season has them in an unfamiliar position as buyers at the trade deadline, rather than sellers. Shoring up the team's defensive depth could be crucial to maintaining their playoff push and ending their three-year postseason drought.