Penguins Linked to Trade for U.S. Gold Medalist from Olympics Who Is Also a Pittsburgh Native

Vincent Trocheck, a veteran center for the New York Rangers, is a potential trade target for the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Feb. 28, 2026 at 4:20am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Pittsburgh Penguins are reportedly interested in acquiring veteran center Vincent Trocheck from the New York Rangers. Trocheck, a Pittsburgh native, recently won a gold medal with Team USA at the Olympics and is seen as a potential roster fit for the Penguins, who are looking to bolster their lineup with star player Sidney Crosby out injured.

Why it matters

The Penguins are in need of a boost to their roster with Crosby sidelined, and Trocheck's combination of Olympic success, veteran experience, and local ties make him an intriguing trade target. However, the cost to acquire Trocheck may be prohibitive for the Penguins in their current state.

The details

Trocheck, who has three years remaining on a seven-year, $39.4 million contract, has 37 points through 44 games this season. He was praised for his gritty, selfless play in helping Team USA win gold at the Olympics. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman believes Trocheck's Olympic performance has only increased his trade value, though he's not sure the Penguins are willing to pay the price to acquire him.

  • The NHL trade deadline is approaching.

The players

Vincent Trocheck

A veteran center for the New York Rangers who recently won a gold medal with Team USA at the Olympics. Trocheck is originally from Pittsburgh.

Sidney Crosby

The star player for the Pittsburgh Penguins who is currently out injured.

Elliotte Friedman

An NHL insider who has reported on the Penguins' potential interest in acquiring Trocheck.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“In the biggest moments of that gold-medal game, on a five-on-three, he played unbelievable. He accepted a role that was not going to be the biggest role, and he did it without complaint. That did not go unnoticed.”

— Elliotte Friedman, NHL Insider (Sporting News)

What’s next

The Penguins will need to decide if the cost to acquire Trocheck is worth it as they look to bolster their roster ahead of the NHL trade deadline.

The takeaway

Trocheck's combination of Olympic success, veteran experience, and local ties make him an intriguing trade target for the Penguins, but the high cost to acquire him may be a deterrent for a team that is already dealing with the loss of their star player, Sidney Crosby.