The Pittsburgh Penguins, boasting a core trio of Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang, have faced disappointment in recent years as they have failed to make the playoffs for two consecutive seasons. Their struggles have been magnified by their inability to advance past the first round since the 2017-2018 season. Adding to their woes is the presence of Erik Karlsson, another aging but incredibly talented defenseman. It is evident that the Penguins, with this core quartet of future Hall of Famers, must make a push for one last Stanley Cup run while their stars are still performing at an elite level.
In the eyes of Penguins fans, the top priority on the wish list is securing the re-signature of their captain, Sidney Crosby. The legendary forward, currently in his 20th season with the Penguins, has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the franchise. As Crosby’s contract nears its expiration after this season, concerns have arisen among fans regarding his future with the team. The delay in negotiating a new deal has sparked anxiety, especially considering Crosby’s advancing age of 37. The urgency to lock down the captain for the future is palpable among supporters.
The goaltending situation in Pittsburgh has also been a cause for concern, particularly with Tristan Jarry’s underwhelming performance in the previous season. Despite leading the league with six shutouts, Jarry endured the worst season of his career, culminating in a losing record. His save percentage of .903 and goals against average of 2.91 hit career lows, prompting questions about his ability to bounce back. The Penguins’ decision to grant Jarry an extension reflects their belief in his potential, but the pressure is on for the goaltender to rediscover his form.
Another pressing issue on the Penguins fans’ wish list is the revamp of the team’s powerplay, which has been lackluster in recent seasons. The dismissal of powerplay coach Todd Reirden signifies a desire for change, as the Penguins ranked third-worst in the league with a 15.3% success rate. The addition of David Quinn aims to address these struggles, with hopes pinned on a full season from Michael Bunting to inject toughness and net presence into the powerplay unit. The need for improvement in this area is crucial for the Penguins’ success moving forward.
The reconstruction of the bottom-six forwards has also been a focal point for the Penguins’ management, recognizing the lack of depth in recent years. The acquisition of Kevin Hayes, Blake Lizotte, Cody Glass, and Anthony Beauvillier signals a shift in strategy to bolster the team’s forward group. The trade for Rutger McGroarty offers promise for the future, as the young forward aims to make his mark alongside Crosby and Co.
As the Penguins gear up for the upcoming season, the anticipation among fans is palpable. With a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, the team is poised to make a statement in the league. The challenge remains to harness the collective talent within the roster and make a strong push for playoff success. Time will tell if the Penguins can reignite their championship aspirations and deliver another memorable season for their devoted fan base.
