The Pittsburgh Penguins have had a lively week of practice, even with some of their top players off representing their countries at the Olympics. The drills have been competitive, and the camaraderie among the remaining players is evident.
Notably, Evgeni Malkin looks both healthy and engaged, especially when his team wins a drill and avoids the dreaded pushups. Even assistant coach Nick Bonino has shown off his skills, stepping in as a pretty decent goalie.
Goalie Interference Woes
The Penguins have found themselves on the wrong end of a few goalie interference calls recently. One notable incident involved Rickard Rakell, who made a clear effort to avoid the crease, only to see his goal disallowed.
This issue hit home during an Olympic match when a crucial game was decided by a similar call. Brad Marchand's contact with Finland's Juuse Saros, initiated from the crease, led to a controversial goal for Canada.
The debate around goalie interference is intense because these calls often rely on human judgment, influenced by the emotions of the moment. It's a subjective area where what seems fair often overrides the strict rules. With the Stanley Cup Playoffs approaching, don't be surprised if goalie interference becomes a hot topic once again.
The Mike Sullivan Saga
Team USA, under Mike Sullivan, has started slowly in their games, but the real story for Penguins fans is the irony of Sullivan's departure. Sullivan left Pittsburgh partly because he disagreed with a long-term rebuild strategy. Now, with the Penguins winning and the Rangers, his new team, struggling, fans are reflecting on what might have been.
Many Penguins supporters were advocating for a rebuild, aiming for a high draft pick like Gavin McKenna. Ironically, keeping Sullivan might have prolonged their struggles, aligning with those fans' wishes. The twist of fate here is almost poetic.
Penguins Prospects in Limbo
The Penguins' farm system is facing its own challenges. Prospects like Rutger McGroarty, Avery Hayes, and Tristan Broz are showing they might be ready for the NHL, yet find themselves stuck in the AHL.
McGroarty has had chances but hasn't found the back of the net, while Hayes has impressed and might see a call-up soon. Broz, however, is blocked by established players like Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, making a trade a possible path forward.
Ville Koivunen needs to find consistency. His potential as a middle-six winger is evident when he's engaged, but he can disappear for stretches. Melvin Fernstrom and Emil Pieniniemi have shown flashes but need further development to address their respective weaknesses.
Owen Pickering remains a question mark. At 22, he's physically developed but hasn't carved out a clear role.
His potential is there, but he needs to find his identity on the ice. Marcus Pettersson's journey could serve as inspiration for Pickering, who would benefit from emulating his style.
The Penguins' prospect pipeline is full of potential, but unlocking it requires strategic decisions and development. The team's future hinges on these young talents finding their footing in the NHL.