Pittsburgh Review

Sidney Crosby described this year's Pittsburgh Penguins training camp as “really unique,” citing heightened competition for roster spots. According to Crosby, "this year's probably the most competitive" he has experienced.

Following extensive practice sessions and preseason games, the Penguins have finalized their 22-man opening-night roster for the 2024-25 season. Notably absent due to injuries are Bryan Rust, Alex Nedeljkovic, Blake Lizotte, Matt Nieto, and Vasily Ponomarev. Rust is dealing with a lower-body injury and has been placed on injured reserve retroactive to last Sunday.

Penguins President of Hockey Operations and GM Kyle Dubas emphasized caution regarding Rust's return: “But I would rather be more cautious with Rusty... it is day-to-day in essence... but I want to be protective of it not developing into something far worse.”

The projected lines for the opening game against the New York Rangers at PPG Paints Arena include Drew O’Connor alongside Sidney Crosby and Anthony Beauvillier. The team aims to play fast-paced hockey with an emphasis on skill and physicality around the net.

Coach Mike Sullivan praised Drew O’Connor’s development: “He gets better and better every single year that he's here.” Similarly, Michael Bunting highlighted his line's chemistry with Evgeni Malkin and Rickard Rakell: “We bring something different to the line, each of us.”

Dubas expressed a desire for more offensive contributions from players traditionally seen as defensive assets. He cited Cody Glass as an example of this shift towards a "200-foot mentality." Dubas also commended Rutger McGroarty’s intelligence and instincts: "He's just a hockey player."

On defense, Erik Karlsson impressed by maintaining offensive balance while pairing effectively with Marcus Pettersson. Matt Grzelcyk adjusted smoothly alongside Kris Letang after joining from Boston.

In goal, Tristan Jarry will partner with Joel Blomqvist due to Alex Nedeljkovic's injury. Coach Sullivan stated that Jarry entered camp in excellent condition: “So, we all believe in Tristan... We think there's another level to his game.”

Blomqvist enters his second professional season in North America following a strong rookie year in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. Dubas remarked on Blomqvist's preseason performance: "It's a great opportunity for him that he's earned."

Overall, the Penguins aim for both defensive resilience and increased goal production as they prepare for their season opener.