What happened: Pittsburgh has an unusually deep pool of NHL-ready forwards entering camp. Management must decide who fits the opening roster and who remains outside the lineup.

Why it matters: The surplus creates pressure to clarify roles, with trades and waivers among the available roster tools. The Penguins' September trade history adds context for late-offseason decisions.

By the numbers: About 20 forwards have a plausible case for NHL work.

What to watch: Training-camp cuts will show whether Pittsburgh resolves the congestion internally or seeks a deal.

Sources