Struggling Penguins Amid Fourth Straight Loss
On February 25, 2025, the Pittsburgh Penguins faced yet another setback, losing 6-1 to the Philadelphia Flyers at Wells Fargo Center. This defeat marked their fourth consecutive loss, and the team is now just two points away from the basement of the Eastern Conference. Each missed opportunity adds to the growing concern, as the Penguins’ playoff hopes become increasingly dim. In their past three games, Pittsburgh has been outscored 19-7, highlighting significant issues on both ends of the ice. The team is struggling defensively, and their offense is not producing enough to keep them competitive. However, one of the most critical problems lies in their goaltending, which has been a recurring issue for several years.
Unreliable Veterans in the Goalie Crease
Pittsburgh’s goaltenders, Alex Nedeljkovic and rookie Joel Blomqvist, have not been up to the task. Nedeljkovic, who is 29, has surrendered 11 goals in just two games since the 4 Nations break, including a shocking first-period pull in one of those games. His season save percentage stands at a meager .893, which is far from the consistency the team needs. Blomqvist, a 23-year-old rookie, had a promising start but has struggled since his sporadic playing time. In his second stint, he has given up seven goals in parts of two games. The Penguins have also dealt with the underperformance of Tristan Jarry, who, at 29, was sent down to the AHL for a conditioning stint at the beginning of the season and eventually waived on January 15, 2025. Jarry’s poor performance and high cap hit make him a difficult trade asset, but the organization is now at a crossroads regarding their goaltending future.
The Future of Penguins Goaltending
While the present is bleak, the Penguins have a promising future in their goaltending ranks. Filip Larsson, a 26-year-old netminder, has been a standout in the AHL, posting a .922 save percentage and contributing significantly to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton’s success. Sergei Murashov, a 20-year-old prospect, has been dominating in both the ECHL with a .926 save percentage and the AHL with a .934 save percentage, showcasing his potential to be a top-tier goaltender. Blomqvist, despite his recent struggles, has shown flashes of brilliance and is considered a key part of Pittsburgh’s future. Head coach Mike Sullivan acknowledged Blomqvist’s potential, stating, "He’s very athletic. We’re really excited about this guy. But he’s a young goaltender, and he’s going through a learning process here. So, the challenge is on us as a coaching staff to help him."
Development Hurdles and Necessary Changes
The Penguins are at a crucial juncture where they need to prioritize the development of their young goaltenders, regardless of the immediate consequences. Murashov’s readiness for the AHL is clear, but he is stuck in the ECHL due to Jarry and Larsson’s presence. Similarly, Larsson and Blomqvist, who have yet to play at the NHL level, need consistent starts to work through their growing pains. Larsson’s previous chance with the Detroit Red Wings was derailed by the COVID-19 pandemic, and it’s time for the Penguins to provide him with the opportunity he deserves. The organization’s best move is to trade Nedeljkovic, ensuring that the younger, more promising goaltenders get the playing time they need to develop. Given the team’s current trajectory, this decision could be pivotal for their long-term success.
Strategic Trade Considerations
Trading Nedeljkovic is not only about clearing the path for the young goaltenders; it can also benefit the Penguins in other ways. Nedeljkovic’s recent hot streak before the break might still make him an attractive backup for contending teams. His $2.5 million salary for one more season is manageable given the rising salary cap, making him a valuable trade chip. Even if there is not a high demand for Nedeljkovic, attaching a mid-late-round draft pick to the deal can sweeten the pot for potential trade partners. This move would not only open up roster spots for Blomqvist and Larsson but also provide the Penguins with additional resources to bolster their lineup in other areas.
The Right Move for Long-Term Success
The Penguins need to take decisive action to secure their future. Holding back promising young talents like Murashov, Larsson, and Blomqvist could have long-term negative consequences on the team’s development. By trading Nedeljkovic, the organization can show confidence in its young netminders and allow them to grow under the scrutiny of NHL play. While the immediate results may not be favorable, the long-term gains in having reliable goaltenders are worth the investment. The easiest path is not always the wrong one, and in this case, making the trade to clear the way for the younger goaltenders is the right move for the Penguins. Bookmark THN – Pittsburgh Penguins on your Google News tab to stay updated on the latest news, roster moves, and player features.
