Report: Penguins Mulling Trading Franchise Cornerstone To Canadiens

Kris Letang has been a cornerstone of the Pittsburgh Penguins' defense since his NHL debut in the 2006-07 season and after the franchise drafted him with the No. 62 pick in the 2005 NHL draft.

Speculation about Letang’s potential departure, however, has returned amid a precarious period of bad results in Pittsburgh.

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review's Tim Benz cited colleague Mark Madden, who claimed on the Madden Monday podcast there had been discussions between the Penguins and the Montreal Canadiens regarding a possible trade at Letang’s request.

"I heard there were discussions about trying to get Letang to Montreal at Letang’s request, but nothing came of that," Madden said. "So I don’t know where this is headed."

Letang’s connection to Montreal is no secret. During his contract negotiations two years ago, there were already whispers of a potential move to the Canadiens , a team that could benefit immensely from his experience and leadership as they navigate a rebuild entering the 2025 season.

As a Montreal native, the idea of Letang returning home to bolster the Canadiens' blue line is believable, at the very least. His presence would solidify their defense and provide mentorship to up-and-coming players like Kaiden Guhle, Arber Xhekaj, David Reinbacher, and Lane Hutson.

Letang signed a six-year, $36.6 million contract extension in 2022 and seemed poised to finish his career in Pittsburgh.

It's also worth noting that Letang’s current deal includes a full no-movement clause, allowing him to control his destiny even if Pittsburgh finds a trade partner to move him.

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