A major problem on the market could push the Pens to make a huge mistake!

The Pittsburgh Penguins are pushing hard to make the postseason and contend for a third consecutive championship. General manager Jim Rutherford is looking to provide the best resources for his club to thrive and is scouring the market to add a boost up front and help his star players Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. 

Rutherford has been clear about want to add a centre to his lineup, who could boost the third-line and give his team more energy down the strength, but Sportsnet insider Nick Kypreos has revealed that the shortage of centers in the trade market is pushing teams to make plan B decisions. 

According to Kypreos, the scarce market is why the Penguins and San Jose Sharks are being linked to Tomas Plekanec of the Montreal Canadiens. While the Sharks are waiting to see when veteran Joe Thornton, who is sidelined with a knee injury, can return, the Pens have been seeking another centre since the trade for Riley Sheahan did not fill the void. 

While there has been chatter about  the Canadiens re-signing Plekanec, they could choose to trade hum for a draft pick, and eventually re-sign him in the summer as an unrestricted free agent. The Habs fans would certainly appreciate the move as they have been demanding significant roster changes and a rebuild for the upcoming seasons. 

However, the Pens might not benefit from the addition of Plekanec, who is a 35-year-old veteran, who has tallied five goals and 20 points in 55 games this season. He might not be the needed boost the Penguins are looking for.

Ottawa Senators centre Derick Brassard, who played for coach Mike Sullivan back when they both were members of the New York Rangers, could be a better and younger fit for Pittsburgh. However, the price might be higher on Brassard, who has recorded 14 goals and 30 points in 52 games in Ottawa.