The Penguins’ Training Camp: Day Three Highlights
The Penguins’ training camp continued with an eventful third day, showcasing various line combinations and individual skills. Saturday’s practice session, conducted by Group C, shifted away from the systems focus of previous days towards emphasizing speed and offensive strategies, particularly focusing on line rushes and odd-man attempts.
Player Performances
Filip Hallander demonstrated his increasing comfort on the ice, skating alongside Rickard Rakell and Bryan Rust during drills. Rakell, in particular, stood out, effectively executing his trademark one-timer and successfully scoring on goaltender Sergei Murashov several times throughout the session. Rakell is determined to elevate his performance this season following a solid previous year, during which he recorded 35 goals and 70 points. He indicated that his ambitions extend beyond personal success, as he aims to secure a spot on Team Sweden for the 2026 Olympics after representing his country in the 4 Nations Face-Off.
“It’s huge for me,” Rakell stated post-practice. “Enhancing my game is vital for both my team and myself. Playing in the Olympics is an opportunity I’ve never had yet, and it serves as a great motivator.”
On the defensive side, Murashov has been dazzling observers with his skillful saves and impressive presence in goal, making him a standout player at the camp. His performance has raised questions about his immediate future; while he has shown he could be NHL-ready by next season, the coaching staff is keen on allowing him more time to develop, likely starting the season with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins for substantial game time.
Group C Highlights
The next training group was led by Sidney Crosby, who was his usual brilliant self, while newcomer Owen Pickering displayed notable improvements in skating speed and control. Pickering, often paired with Harrison Brunicke, seems to be establishing a solid rapport, which Brunicke acknowledged, emphasizing their ongoing growth as a duo.
“We’re just learning and growing together, creating chemistry along the way,” Brunicke noted, hinting at the potential of both players reaching the NHL down the line.
Aidan McDonough, signed to an AHL deal, has flown somewhat under the radar but showcased his puck-handling skills and a quick release during practice. He could bolster the Wilkes-Barre Penguins’ lineup for the upcoming season, especially after a successful stint last year in the AHL.
Meanwhile, Erik Karlsson exhibited high energy and enthusiasm, verbalizing encouragement throughout the drills, which speaks to his positive mindset heading into the season. He frequently paired with Parker Wotherspoon, indicating they may form a strong first defensive unit.
Group B and Upcoming Games
Finally, in the practice session featuring Group B, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang, goaltender Arturs Silovs continued to impress with his performance, displaying remarkable reflexes and positioning. Silovs is emerging as a leading candidate for the backup position behind Tristan Jarry, outshining many in the camp.
At the end of the day, Malkin and Anthony Mantha entertained the audience during a 3v3 drill, impressively converting slap shots into goals, drawing cheers from onlookers. Having faced disappointment last season after failing to advance to the playoffs, the Penguins’ players are clearly driven to return to peak performance.
The team is set to take a breather on Sunday before diving into their first preseason game against the Montreal Canadiens on Monday, accompanied by a morning skate. Fans can look forward to further training sessions early next week as the Penguins aim to refine their game ahead of the regular season.
