Penguins among teams talking trade with Sens

In this case, the rich are trying to get richer, or maybe one of the NHL’s strongest teams is trying to add even more bench strength.

In any case, as the Pittsburgh Penguins prepare to make a return to the National Hockey League playoffs, general manager Jim Rutherford is doing his best to put together a deal that will propel the franchise to its third straight Stanley Cup title.

The Penguins are among a group of teams looking to acquire a forward before the Feb. 26 trade deadline, and it’s believed Rutherford, who usually gets out ahead of the pack, is among the many general managers that have contacted the Senators.

The word in Pittsburgh is that the Penguins have interest in centres Derick Brassard and Jean- Gabriel Pageau, but it’s also believed the Senators aren’t actively shopping either player, and it’s doubtful either Brassard and Pageau will be dealt.

Still, that won’t stop other teams from shopping in Ottawa because the Senators are 29th in the NHL’s overall standings and will miss the post-season.

Rutherford received a firsthand look at the Senators during last year’s Eastern Conference final.

The Penguins edged the Senators 4-3 in the best-of-seven series, capped by a 3-2 victory in double-overtime in Game 7, but not before guys like Brassard and Pageau gave Pittsburgh everything they had.

The St. Louis Blues, New Jersey Devils, San Jose Sharks and Boston Bruins have also been seeking forward help.