As the Pittsburgh Penguins approach the 2025-26 season, expectations for the forward group are a mix of надежда in veteran leadership and the potential of emerging young talent. With changes behind the bench and on the roster, the team is aiming to improve, though a drastic leap towards contention isn't anticipated.
Veteran Leadership:
Sidney Crosby remains the focal point. The expectation is for him to lead by example and mentor younger players. Bryan Rust will also be leaned on for supplementary scoring. Evgeni Malkin is expected to contribute offensively, and some believe he can reach 60+ points if he remains healthy and finds good linemates. However, questions linger about whether Malkin still fully fits the team.
Young Forwards & Prospects:
A key focus is on the development and integration of younger players. Rutger McGroarty is one prospect who will be under the spotlight to justify the decision to acquire him. After a mixed first year, where he split time between the NHL and AHL, the team hopes to see significant improvement in his skating and overall game. Ville Koivunen, who had a successful first AHL season and showed promise in his NHL games, could provide a skill boost in the middle six.
Other prospects who could push for roster spots include Benjamin Kindel, known for his offensive abilities as both a shooter and playmaker. Cruz Lucius is another prospect the Penguins hope to see take the next step. There's also anticipation around Emil Pieniniemi, with some analysts believing he's close to being NHL-ready.
Key Questions & Expectations:
Several questions surround the forward group. Can players like Philip Tomasino build on their previous success and provide consistent offensive contributions? Can Drew O'Connor and Valtteri Puustinen secure full-time roles and add depth to the forward lines? Where will new acquisitions like Anthony Mantha and Kevin Hayes fit into the lineup, and can they meet expectations? Tommy Novak, another new addition, will be looked upon to provide consistent playmaking and responsibility in his own zone.
Overall Outlook:
The Penguins' forward group in 2025-26 is expected to be a blend of experienced veterans and promising young players. While Sidney Crosby will continue to be the leader, the development and performance of the younger forwards will be crucial to the team's success. The Penguins appear to be embracing a rebuild, and with that comes a focus on stockpiling draft capital and developing young talent. While a playoff berth may be unlikely, the season will be an important evaluation period for many players as the Penguins look to build a foundation for the future.
