How Will the Rangers Fare in the Metro? Who wins the Cup?
By Marvin Azrak
4. Pittsburgh Penguins (2022-23, 40-31-11, 91 points, 5th in Metro):
The Penguins’ strength, both last season and in the upcoming 2023-24 season, undoubtedly lies in their top-six forwards. Sidney Crosby continued to shine at 36 years old, tallying 33 goals and 90 points in 82 games last season.
His partner in crime, Evgeni Malkin, is showing no signs of slowing down either, posting 27 goals and 83 points in 82 games last season. Their availability for the full 82-game season is crucial, even though the team doesn’t necessarily need them to play every game.
Jake Guentzel, although recovering from offseason ankle surgery, is expected to provide a significant scoring boost when he returns. Reilly Smith, a solid offseason addition, should contribute 20-plus goals and 50-plus points, while Bryan Rust is due for improved shooting luck. The Penguins’ forward group is undeniably their strong suit.
However, changes were made in the bottom six forwards during the offseason. Team president and general manager Kyle Dubas brought players like Matt Nieto, Lars Eller, Rem Pitlick, and Noel Acciari. Eller, at 34, may not be at his prime, but Nieto and Acciari are dependable bottom-six contributors. Pitlick has shown scoring ability in this role, and Drew O’Connor, a returning player, has had a promising preseason, potentially poised for a breakout.
Yes, the acquisition of Erik Karlsson from the San Jose Sharks was seismic. The reigning Norris trophy winner adds firepower to the Penguins’ blueline, especially their power play.
However, the bottom six was a weak point contributing to Pittsburgh missing the playoffs last season, so this group must perform better in 2023-24. There’s some uncertainty due to the influx of new faces, but the potential for improvement is there.
The key to the Penguins’ playoff aspirations might rest on Tristan Jarry’s shoulders. He signed a five-year $26.88 million ($3.75 million AAV) extension this summer, and if he can stay healthy, he’s an above-average goaltender with a .913 SV% over his previous 144 appearances. With Casey DeSmith traded, Alex Nedeljkovic takes over as Jarry’s backup, looking to bounce back from a challenging stint with the Detroit Red Wings.
While the goaltending situation has some uncertainties due to Jarry’s health and Nedeljkovic’s recent performance, it might not be the team’s most vital link. However, it shouldn’t be weak enough to keep them out of the playoffs again. Last season, Pittsburgh missing the playoffs for the first time in 16 years was considered a fluke. Expect them to return with a vengeance.