Canucks acquire Mark Friedman, Ty Glover from Penguins for Jack Rathbone, Karel Plasek

Breaking News: Pittsburgh Penguins Make Trade with Vancouver Canucks

• The Pittsburgh Penguins have completed a trade with the Vancouver Canucks, acquiring Jack Rathbone and Karel Plasek in exchange for Mark Friedman and Ty Glover.
• Mark Friedman, a 27-year-old defenseman, has played 64 NHL games and has 12 points to his name. He was previously with the Philadelphia Flyers before joining the Penguins. Friedman was drafted in the third round of the 2014 NHL Draft.
• Ty Glover, a 23-year-old centerman, had a solid season with the AHL Penguins, scoring 12 points in 49 games.
• Jack Rathbone, a 24-year-old defenseman, has appeared in 28 games with the Canucks. He was a fourth-round pick in the 2017 NHL Draft.
• Karel Plasek, a 23-year-old forward, spent last season in the Czech league and has played games in the AHL during the 2021-22 season.

What Does This Mean for the Penguins?

Pittsburgh Penguins’ General Manager, Kyle Dubas, is known for his willingness to make roster changes. This trade is an example of his dedication to improving the team’s organizational depth.

Friedman and Glover were not part of the Penguins’ long-term plans, but Rathbone and Plasek may be closer to joining the lineup. Dubas aims to build a competitive team in the AHL and has convinced ownership that this strategy is worth the investment.

While more moves are likely in the future, Dubas will be active in talks throughout the season, looking for opportunities to improve the NHL club.

Short-Term Help for the Blue Line

The Canucks were in need of additional depth on the right side of their blue line. With Noah Juulsen’s inconsistency and a preference for not playing left-handed defensemen on the right side, the acquisition of Friedman provides Vancouver with another option on the blue line.

A Fresh Start for Rathbone

Jack Rathbone, once considered a top prospect for the Canucks, encountered obstacles in his development due to COVID-19 disruptions and injuries. However, with his talent and potential, a new environment could give him the opportunity to shine.

Required Reading

For more details, check out the photo of Mark Friedman by Charles LeClaire on USA Today.