The Pittsburgh Penguins weren’t supposed to be here. At least, not according to the preseason projections.
But as we hit the Olympic break, they’ve flipped the script in a big way. With a 29-15-12 record, they're sitting second in the Metropolitan Division - not scraping the bottom of the standings as many expected, but instead firmly in the playoff mix.
That kind of turnaround doesn’t just happen. It’s been a team-wide effort, with veterans stepping up, young players finding their stride, and the goaltending holding strong. But if the Penguins want to keep this momentum rolling into the postseason - and make a real dent once they get there - they’ll likely need to make a move or two once the NHL’s roster freeze lifts later this month.
One area that jumps off the page? The blue line. Specifically, the right side of it.
The Penguins’ defensive corps has held its own, but depth is a concern, especially when it comes to right-shot defensemen who can eat minutes and contribute on special teams. That’s where Calgary’s Zach Whitecloud enters the conversation - a name that should be firmly on Pittsburgh’s radar.
Whitecloud, who recently landed in Calgary as part of the deal that sent Rasmus Andersson to Vegas, is already being talked about as a potential trade chip. And for the Penguins, he checks a lot of boxes.
He’s not a flashy, point-producing defenseman, but that’s not what Pittsburgh needs. What they need is stability on the back end - someone who can lock things down defensively, kill penalties, and bring a bit of edge.
Whitecloud fits that mold. He brings a reliable presence in his own zone, and he’s not afraid to get physical.
Through 55 games this season, split between the Golden Knights and Flames, he’s tallied 76 blocks and 86 hits - numbers that speak to his willingness to do the dirty work.
Offensively, he’s chipped in modestly with two goals and eight assists for 10 points. But again, the value here isn’t in his scoring.
It’s in his ability to solidify a bottom pairing and provide insurance if injuries hit or matchups call for a more defensive look. He’s the kind of player who can quietly tilt a playoff series by shutting down an opponent’s second or third line.
Another big plus? He’s not a short-term rental.
Whitecloud carries a manageable $2.75 million cap hit through the 2027-28 season. That gives the Penguins both immediate help and long-term value - a rare combo at the deadline.
For a team that’s already exceeded expectations, adding a piece like Whitecloud could be the kind of move that helps them sustain this surge and make some real noise in the postseason. The fit makes sense, the need is clear, and the opportunity is there.
Don’t be surprised if Pittsburgh makes a push. This team has already shown it’s not interested in rebuilding. They’re here to compete - and a move for Whitecloud would be another step in that direction.