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Penguins Linked to Trade Talks as Canadian Team Struggles to Extend Key Young Forward


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Tom Banks
August 27, 2025  (11:40)
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Connor Zary of the Calgary Flames.
Photo credit: Flames Nation

Kyle Dubas is seeking young, NHL ready talent this off-season, and now Connor Zary of the Calgary Flames may be an option as contract talks continue.

This off-season as the Penguins head towards a rebuild, and thus far, General Manager Kyle Dubas has made it known that in trades, he's seeking young, NHL ready talent to help this franchise moving forward.
We're yet to see a deal this off-season, but in trade speculation we've heard of differing levels of interest in Mason McTavish, Marco Rossi and JJ Peterka, with no deal materializing thus far.

Could Connor Zary Become a Realistic Target for Pittsburgh?

Now, another potential name has entered the fray, as Connor Zary's contract dispute in Calgary may make him a target to watch for Dubas and the Penguins, as he could be a cheap target with immense upside.
To this point, it's unclear if the 23-year old is going to sign a new deal this off-season, and while people in the organization are confident, this may just be the time for the Penguins to strike and land a talented young forward.

Why the Flames' Contract Stalemate Makes Zary a Name to Watch for the Penguins

The biggest issue in Calgary is likely Zary wanting a long-term deal while the team opt for a bridge, and this dispute makes the Penguins the perfect trade partner, as they could offer a future pick for a player that may want to sign a long-term deal and represent a key piece of the future.
We've already seen Zary score some ridiculous goals in his NHL career, and with 13 goals and 27 points in 54 games a year ago, he's clearly got the potential, so if the Penguins see a middle-six centre of the future in Zary to groom behind Sidney Crosby, a trade offer may make sense here for the team.
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Penguins Linked to Trade Talks as Canadian Team Struggles to Extend Key Young Forward

Should the Penguins be targeting Connor Zary in a trade?

Yes1963.3 %
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