The Penguins never came close to trading Rickard Rakell before Friday’s NHL trade deadline. Oh, there was heavy interest. The Penguins received substantial offers from teams eager to add one of the most gifted goal scorers on the market.

Time is ticking toward the NHL trade deadline. Soon, teams will no longer have the opportunity to either cash in as sellers or bolster their potential playoff rosters. On Friday afternoon, the buzzers will officially sound on NHL trades.

Listed as one of the most desirable players at the trade deadline, the Penguins decide to keep forward Rickard Rakell as he approaches a career-high in goals