Ducks looking at Penguins in search for an impact right handed defenseman, source says

As the Olympic break is inching closer, trade speculation is rampant around the league with the Penguins front and center, though, nothing of significance is believed be imminent for Pittsburgh at this point, as discussions with multiple teams are said to still be in the preliminary stages of “hey keep us in mind if you make such and such available.”

The most interesting chatter to surface this week is with the NHL leading Anaheim Ducks.

One NHL source says there’s been some “feeling out” discussions between the Penguins and Ducks with the Ducks initiating talks in their hunt for an impact right handed defenseman, preferably a top-4 defenseman.

Who are the Ducks after? Matt Niskanen?, Robert Bortuzzo?…..Kris Letang?

Kris Letang is the player sources believe the Ducks have very high on their wishlist.

Chatter this summer prior to the the draft was that the Ducks loved Letang, one front office source said, and there’s no evidence that stance has changed despite the Penguins and Letang agreeing to an 8 year extension last June.

Because of how it might look in trading Letang before his no trade clause kicks in, Letang is a sensitive subject among Penguin officials and information is guarded on him right now.

With excellent young forward depth and goaltending, Anaheim has the pieces to get Pittsburgh’s attention if GM Ray Shero has the stomach to move Letang, which I don’t believe he does, but the Penguins are getting and anticipate calls continuing and possibly offers coming for Letang prior to the deadline.

Moving Letang would open the door for a slew of options to attack the roster next season such as resigning Matt Niskanen, bolstering forward depth, opening roster spots for young defensemen, ect.

TIDBITS: Forward Zach Sill had wrist surgery on Tuesday and will be sidelined 8-12 weeks, according to the Penguins….