Pittsburgh Penguins President of Hockey Operations/General Manager, Kyle Dubas, has a busy offseason ahead of him as he looks to make changes to the team’s goalie dynamic. One of his first moves was re-signing Alex Nedeljkovic, signaling a shift in the Penguins’ approach to goaltending. Now, the focus turns to Tristan Jarry, who sources say is available for trade. Jarry, who signed a long-term contract last July, has a 12-team no-trade list, but his representatives can provide Dubas with a new list at the start of the new league year.
The Penguins took a chance on Jarry last offseason, but there were frustrations with his inconsistent performances and reactions to teammates after goals. Nedeljkovic’s strong play towards the end of the season solidified his position as the team’s starting goalie, leading the Penguins to prioritize re-signing him. However, the team has not ruled out beginning next season with Jarry and Nedeljkovic as their tandem.
One complicating factor in the goalie situation is the uncertainty surrounding prospect Joel Blomqvist. While highly regarded, there are concerns about relying on him as a backup in case of an injury to Nedeljkovic. The Penguins remain confident that Jarry and Nedeljkovic can avoid any off-ice issues related to a potential goalie controversy.
Dubas is looking for a “hockey trade” for Jarry, preferably adding a top-six winger or top-four defenseman. With limited cap space, the Penguins are more likely to make roster changes through trades rather than targeting big-name free agents. Going into free agency, the team projects to have around $10.5 million in cap space.
While the Penguins recognize that having approximately $7.9 million devoted to their goalie tandem is not ideal, they believe it has more upside for their short window of success with Evgeni Malkin signed for only two more seasons. The team is also cautious about bringing back Reilly Smith, who they acquired in a trade last summer. While there is no definitive evidence that Smith is unhappy with the organization, there are reservations about his return for the final season of his contract.
As for Sidney Crosby’s contract, both sides are confident it will get done. Talks between Dubas and Crosby’s agent, Pat Brisson, are expected to intensify in Las Vegas. However, there is no rush to announce a new deal, as Crosby wants to give Dubas time to improve the team. Both Crosby and the Penguins are committed to him finishing his career in Pittsburgh.
In addition to addressing the goalie situation and Crosby’s contract, Dubas has other priorities this offseason. Extending Marcus Pettersson is on his radar, as the team views him as an essential defensive asset. The Penguins are also optimistic that new assistant coach David Quinn will have a positive impact on defensemen Erik Karlsson and Ryan Graves. Additionally, the team may look to add Anthony Beauvillier in free agency, as they believe he could thrive in Head Coach Mike Sullivan’s system.
Overall, Dubas faces a crucial offseason as he looks to make strategic moves to improve the Penguins’ roster. Whether it’s addressing the goalie situation, negotiating Crosby’s contract, or pursuing potential free agents, the team is focused on returning to the playoffs and competing for another Stanley Cup.