How Penguins’ New Era Set To Take Shape

The Pittsburgh Penguins enter 2025-26 caught between eras.

Eighteen months into a full rebuild, the franchise has shifted from a stars-and-veterans model to a roster blending aging legends with fresh talent. Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin remain, while president and general manager Kyle Dubas has restocked the farm system and leaned heavily on the draft to build a sustainable future, according to Josh Yohe of The Athletic.

Behind the bench, Dan Muse takes over for Mike Sullivan after nearly a decade of stability. Muse is known for developing young players, but he will need to balance growth with a lineup that still relies on thirty-somethings. That challenge could define the year.

The Penguins will have considerable questions surrounding their goaltending. Tristan Jarry finished last season strong, but also spent time in the AHL. Artūrs Šilovs arrives with playoff experience, yet an uneven record. Prospects Sergei Murashov and Joel Blomqvist offer promise but no certainty, as Yohe noted.

On defense, Erik Karlsson and Kris Letang can still drive offense, though both faltered defensively last season. Newcomers Matt Dumba, Connor Clifton and Parker Wotherspoon add depth, but the top four remain unsettled.

Up front, scoring remains a strength. Crosby and Malkin anchor the middle, with Rickard Rakell, Bryan Rust and rookie Rutger McGroarty supporting. The bottom six features dependable role players, though defensive depth is limited, per Yohe.

Dubas has cap space, but, as Yohe reported, appears unwilling to spend on short-term fixes. The Penguins’ plan is to prioritize stability over chasing a fleeting playoff berth.

This roster can deliver highlight nights yet is likely to stumble through rough patches. Fans may see flashes of tomorrow while appreciating one more season of Malkin.

The transition won’t be seamless, but the foundation being built suggests brighter days ahead.

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