It’s rare for a young defenseman who hasn’t yet reached his full potential but could benefit from a fresh start to become available—but that’s exactly the situation with Vegas Golden Knights blueliner. Rumors suggest he’s on the trade block, and Penguins GM Kyle Dubas should be highly interested.
Fans remain divided on whether Dubas should pursue Hague, with some arguing the team isn’t currently a contender. Still, many believe Hague would be a major boost to Pittsburgh’s blue line. Given Dubas’ long-term vision, acquiring a player of Hague’s talent could align well with his strategy.
Nick Kypreos: The Canadiens and Penguins are trying to acquire Vegas defenseman Nic Hague – Toronto Star
— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) June 8, 2025
The Penguins would be cooking if they were to acquire Hague
Dubas and the fans are well aware that the Penguins’ defense needs a significant overhaul after several disappointing seasons. The blue line has struggled, and Dubas understands the urgency of addressing those issues.
He knows the team needs to add stay-at-home defensemen—players who can clear the crease, protect the net, and reliably move the puck out of the zone.
Nic Hague fits that mold perfectly. If he’s paired with young talents like Harrison Brunicke and Owen Pickering—and eventually joined by prospects Finn Harding and Emil Pieniniemi—the Penguins could be set up with a strong, stable defensive core for the future.
The price to acquire Hague should not be that high
Nic Hague is a restricted free agent for the Golden Knights, meaning other teams can submit an offer sheet, which Vegas can either match or decline. Alternatively, his rights can be traded, allowing a new team to negotiate an extension directly.
Penguins GM Kyle Dubas has made it clear he prefers trades over offer sheets, so if Pittsburgh targets Hague, a trade followed by an extension is the more likely path.
The cost to acquire Hague’s rights likely won’t be steep, and with the Penguins holding a surplus of draft picks this year, they have the assets to make a deal with Vegas happen.
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