The Pittsburgh Penguins have confirmed they are in contract discussions with standout defenseman Marcus Pettersson, following the departure of several key players. According to David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, the Penguins plan to focus on extending Pettersson’s contract once negotiations with captain Sidney Crosby are finalized.
Pettersson, 29, is entering the final year of his five-year, $20.13 million deal signed in January 2020. His performance during this contract has been a major asset for the Penguins, as he has emerged as the team’s most reliable defenseman. The Swedish blueliner was acquired from the Anaheim Ducks in a one-for-one trade in December 2018, which saw forward Daniel Sprong heading to Anaheim. The trade has heavily favored Pittsburgh, as Pettersson has developed into a legitimate top-four defenseman, while Sprong has bounced around as a depth scorer.
Although there’s no official word on what kind of extension Pettersson is seeking, reports suggest a long-term deal in the range of $5.5 to $6 million annually could be on the table. Given his importance to Pittsburgh’s defensive lineup, re-signing him is likely a top priority for the team as they navigate a transitional phase while remaining competitive.
Last season, Pettersson delivered his best offensive performance yet, recording career-highs with four goals, 26 assists, and a +28 rating. While he may not be a household name, his consistency and impact on the ice make him a valuable asset that could command a significant deal, especially if he maintains his level of production heading into free agency.
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