Rickard Rakell, a 31-year-old right winger, remains a potential trade candidate for the Penguins. He still holds value as a scorer but is signed through the 2027-28 season with an average annual value of $5 million and an eight-team no-trade list. Given his long-term contract, he is viewed as more likely to be traded in the off-season when teams may have more cap space and a greater willingness to take on contracts with term remaining.

Rickard Rakell scored a power-play goal in the game against Tampa Bay, breaking a nine-game scoring drought. Despite his struggles, he has been generating chances and driving possession alongside Sidney Crosby and Anthony Beauvillier. Rakell acknowledged the team's need to stay positive during momentum shifts but expressed frustration at their inability to execute under pressure. His recent performance is seen as a potential turning point, suggesting that he could regain his scoring touch now that he’s found the back of the net again.

Rickard Rakell scored a power-play goal, ending a nine-game scoring drought and marking his seventh goal of the season.

Rickard Rakell scored a power-play goal, ending a nine-game scoring drought, and marked his seventh goal of the season.

Rickard Rakell is part of the Pittsburgh Penguins' top line alongside Sidney Crosby and Drew O'Connor. Despite recent line shuffling, Rakell's presence with Crosby has the potential to elevate his offensive output. While the specific combination hasn't been extensively tested, Crosby's strong performance over the past weeks, scoring five goals and adding four assists, suggests that Rakell could benefit from playing with one of the league's elite forwards. This matchup against the Detroit Red Wings presents an opportunity for Rakell to contribute significantly, especially given the Red Wings' defensive struggles.