More young talent on the move?

After Colorado and St. Louis stunned hockey fans late Friday night, could there be more young talent changing places?

One rumor being reported Monday by TSN's Darren Dreger is a possible swap of Penguins defenseman Alex Goligoski for Stars forward James Neal.

It's a highly interesting move that fills a need for both teams.

With the emergence of All-Star Kris Letang in Pittsburgh, plus the summer signing of Paul Martin, the Pens could part with a young talent like Goligoski, 25, who has 9 goals and 31 points in 60 games.

The Stars could use some offensive punch to their blue line, as their leading offensive performer is 33-year-old Stephane Robidas, who has just 26 points.

Sending away a young left wing like Neal, 23 would be a big price for Dallas, but one they seem OK in paying. Neal has scored 20 goals in each of his first three seasons, including 21 this season. But the Stars have All-Star Loui Eriksson and promising Jamie Benn who can play on the left, and a number of talented young forwards in the pipeline, including Tomas Vincour and 2009 first-round pick Scott Glennie.

With Evgeni Malkin lost for the season, Sidney Crosby a question mark and a number of other injuries, the Pens certainly could use the offensive boost Neal could give them.

Could this move happen? It would take a pair of very brave general managers. But after seeing the Blues and Avs exchange talented young players Friday, anything is possible.

Contact Adam Kimelman at [email protected] and follow him on Twitter: @NHLAdamK

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