The 3 things the Penguins need to succeed in the 2024-25 season are revealed
As the offseason for the Penguins is moving forward, Dubas and the organization are ready to evaluate what is needed to be successful next season.
Here is a look at a few of the top needs the Penguins will have to make to compete at a higher level.
A Top Four Defenseman
Even with the addition of Erik Karlsson to the Penguins lineup, the back end of the defensive core needs some help. PO Joseph looked good the final leg of the season paired with Kris Letang, but they might not continue to play on the same line next year.
Ryan Graves will not help and with his contract the Pens are tied up financially. They will need to find someone to fill in on the left side in the Top Four pairing with Letang to succeed.
A Goaltender to Work with Tristan Jarry
The tandem of Alex Nedeljkovic and Tristan Jarry worked well, and Ned played himself into the starting role. But with his play, he will probably get himself a longer term deal with another team.
That will leave Jarry with the option of the young prospect in Wilkes-Barre Joel Blomqvist. Have Blomqvist called up this early might not help his development. If the Pens are able to get a veteran to back up Jarry that could be the solution.
A Winger with Middle Six Talent
Although Dubas took steps last season to improve their middle six wingers, Matt Nieto, Reilly Smith, and Noel Acciari did not have the impact that was needed.
What the Penguins do have is younger talent that has proven to succeed at the higher level of play. Drew O'Connor has earned his top line spot with Crosby and Rust. Valtteri Puustinen has improved, and players like Sam Poulin and Jonathan Gruden will look to make the roster at the next camp. But what the team will need is someone who can produce 15-20 goals, and that is what they will look for this offseason.
As Read On: The Hockey News -
Three Biggest Needs for Penguins This Offseason
| POLL | ||
MAI 29 | 185 ANSWERS The 3 things the Penguins need to succeed in the 2024-25 season are revealed Which of these three Penguins needs do you think is the most important? | ||
| Top Four Defenseman | 55 | 29.7 % |
| Middle Six Winger | 30 | 16.2 % |
| Goaltender | 83 | 44.9 % |
| None of the above | 17 | 9.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
