Amidst a burgeoning goaltender market and swirling trade rumors across the league, the Pittsburgh Penguins find themselves in a potentially advantageous position with Tristan Jarry.
Despite not being prominently discussed as a team looking to move their starting goalie, there are compelling reasons for general manager Kyle Dubas to assess interest in Jarry around the NHL.
Last offseason, the Penguins committed to Jarry with a substantial five-year extension. However, recent developments in the goalie market, exemplified by Jacob Markstrom’s trade to the New Jersey Devils for a first-round pick and a defenseman, suggest a robust market for goalies.
Markstrom’s deal sets a precedent that could work favorably for the Penguins if they decide to explore Jarry’s trade value.
Jarry, at 29 years old, remains a capable netminder who thrives with a strong team in front of him, similar to Markstrom. Yet, his contract, which includes four more years and $21.5 million, could pose a hurdle in negotiations, potentially necessitating salary retention to facilitate a trade. Nevertheless, Jarry’s age and potential return to peak performance could entice teams seeking goalie upgrades this offseason.
Within the Penguins organization, Jarry stands out as their primary goalie asset, although the emergence of Alex Nedeljkovic and Joel Blomqvist’s promising development in the AHL adds depth. Nedeljkovic’s recent re-signing raises questions about his future role and could influence Jarry’s availability for trade discussions.
With several NHL teams reportedly in pursuit of goalie upgrades, including notable names like John Gibson of the Anaheim Ducks, demand might outstrip supply. This dynamic could work in favor of the Penguins, potentially enhancing Jarry’s trade value if other goalie pursuits fall through for interested teams.
Considering the Penguins’ current pipeline and the potential to acquire additional assets or prospects in exchange for Jarry, Dubas may find it prudent to gauge interest across the league. While Dubas’ exact intentions remain speculative, exploring trade opportunities for Jarry could strategically benefit the Penguins both in the short and long term.
