Pittsburgh Penguins Explore Defensive Upgrades Ahead of Trade Deadline

Team looks to bolster blue line with potential additions before playoffs

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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As the Pittsburgh Penguins approach the NHL trade deadline, the team is reportedly exploring options to strengthen their defensive corps. With injuries to key players like Kris Letang and the upcoming Olympic break, the Penguins are seen as potential buyers, looking to add depth on the back end to support their playoff push.

Why it matters

The Penguins have been a consistent playoff contender in recent years, but their defensive depth has been an area of concern. Adding the right piece could provide a boost as they aim to make another deep postseason run.

The details

The Penguins are reportedly interested in several defensemen who could be available, including Simon Benoit of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Zach Whitecloud of the Calgary Flames, Mario Ferraro of the San Jose Sharks, and Logan Stanley of the Winnipeg Jets. Each player offers a different skillset, from Benoit's defensive reliability to Ferraro's two-way ability. The team is also considering Braden Schneider of the New York Rangers, though his inconsistent play this season raises some questions.

  • The Penguins will have five games before the 2025-26 NHL Trade Deadline on March 3, 2026.

The players

Kris Letang

A veteran defenseman for the Pittsburgh Penguins who is currently injured.

Erik Karlsson

A defenseman for the Pittsburgh Penguins who is currently participating in the 2026 Olympics.

Simon Benoit

A 27-year-old defenseman for the Toronto Maple Leafs who is signed through next season at a manageable salary cap hit.

Zach Whitecloud

A 29-year-old defenseman recently traded from the Vegas Golden Knights to the Calgary Flames, who could be available again.

Mario Ferraro

A 27-year-old defenseman for the San Jose Sharks who is set to become an unrestricted free agent after this season.

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What they’re saying

“While the idea of somebody like Jason Robertson or Robert Thomas is fun to think about and dream on, those are probably more offseason-type moves than in-season deadline deals.”

— Adam Gretz, Author (yahoo.com)

“The ideal situation would be finding a young defenseman with team-control remaining beyond this season, but that sort of thing is probably easier said than done.”

— Adam Gretz, Author (yahoo.com)

What’s next

The Penguins will need to weigh the pros and cons of each potential defensive addition, considering factors like cost, term, and fit, before the March 3rd trade deadline.

The takeaway

The Penguins' search for defensive reinforcements highlights the importance of roster depth and flexibility as teams gear up for the playoffs. Finding the right balance of short-term and long-term solutions will be crucial for Pittsburgh as they aim to make another deep postseason run.