The Pittsburgh Penguins: Preparing for the 2026-27 Season
The Pittsburgh Penguins are gearing up for the 2026-27 season with hopes of bouncing back from a range of mixed performances. Following a strong showing in 2025-26 that propelled the team back into the playoffs, it’s essential to identify players who may improve and meet—or exceed—their prior form. While numerous team members enjoyed breakout seasons, some individuals will be under pressure to elevate their game after a less-than-stellar experience last year.
Potential Candidates for Improved Performance
Top Rebound Hope: Samuel Girard
Samuel Girard’s tenure with the Penguins has been a rollercoaster ride since his acquisition from the Colorado Avalanche in a trade for Brett Kulak. Initially, he appeared overwhelmed in transitioning to the Penguins’ system, especially while partnering with Kris Letang. His early play was marked by indecision and difficulties both in regular and playoff matches, with fans expressing frustration over his performance. Despite these challenges, there were moments where his skill shone through, hinting at the potential for future success. Historically, several defensemen have faced similar challenges in Pittsburgh before rebounding significantly in subsequent seasons, exemplified by players like Sergei Gonchar and Paul Martin. While Girard might not reach the heights of those elite players, he possesses a solid resume that suggests he can re-establish himself as a competent top-four defenseman, which the Penguins could greatly benefit from in the upcoming season.
Moderate Rebound Potential: Arturs Silovs
Goaltender Arturs Silovs stirred excitement during the playoffs with a commendable performance, narrowly leading the Penguins to a potential game-tying situation against a formidable opponent. Nonetheless, his overall season statistics were less impressive; he ranked near the bottom among goaltenders concerning save percentage and goals saved above average. There are areas needing improvement, such as rebound control and puck handling, but at just 25 years old, Silovs has displayed potential during critical matches in both the AHL and NHL. If he can find consistency, he has the chance to carve out a significant role, potentially sharing goaltending duties with Sergei Murashov next season.
Urgent Need for Improvement: Ville Koivunen
Expectations were elevated for Ville Koivunen as he entered the 2025-26 season, but his performance fell short of the mark, culminating in only nine points over 39 games. Although he has demonstrated remarkable ability in the AHL, his translation to the NHL stage has been lackluster; his underlying metrics suggest he generates opportunities but fails to capitalize. Approaching his 23rd birthday and with notable AHL success behind him, it’s crucial for Koivunen to find his rhythm at the NHL level next season. Without improvements, there’s a risk of his status shifting from an up-and-coming prospect to a player under scrutiny.
Slim Chances for Resurgence: Ryan Graves
In the wake of new management in Pittsburgh, Ryan Graves has emerged as a notable disappointment of the offseason signings. Entering his fourth season with the Penguins, under two different coaches, it’s become apparent that his role may be relegated to that of an AHL depth player, especially considering his contract’s weight. At 31, the club faces challenges in moving him without incurring additional costs. Unfortunately for Graves, this appears to be a situation where the organization may have miscalculated in free agency—a scenario that frequently occurs when teams aim for high-profile acquisitions.
