The Pittsburgh Penguins have missed the playoffs for the past two seasons, a first during Sidney Crosby’s career. The team, hindered by one of the oldest rosters in the league and a weak supporting cast for Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang, even failed to secure a postseason spot despite adding Erik Karlsson. With limited cap and roster space, and no significant free-agent additions on the horizon, the Penguins will look to their recent draft picks for a boost.
Brayden Yager stands out among these prospects, with the Penguins planning to give him a chance in the NHL next season. Yager had an impressive season with the WHL’s Moose Jaw Warriors, scoring 35 goals and 95 points in 57 games and adding 27 points in 20 playoff games as team captain. His speed and playmaking ability are promising, although he will need to bulk up to handle the physicality of the NHL.
Another promising prospect is top WHL defender Owen Pickering, who signed his entry-level contract but returned to the WHL’s Swift Current Broncos for the season. Pickering recorded a career-high 46 points in 59 games and served as team captain. While he has a tough path to the NHL lineup, especially with recent additions to Pittsburgh’s defense, his size, physicality, and brief AHL experience could help him make the leap.
Wingers Tristan Broz and Ville Koivunen, along with centerman Vasili Ponomarev, also show potential. Broz, known for his drive with the puck, Koivunen for his shot, and Ponomarev for his grit, all had strong seasons in their respective leagues. Ponomarev, in particular, is close to the NHL, having scored two points in two games with the Carolina Hurricanes and 30 points in 45 AHL games.
The Penguins have only made three first-round picks since 2015 and are feeling the effects. However, with Yager and Pickering aiming for strong starts to their pro careers, and supported by successful trades and late-round picks, the team hopes that these young talents can help them return to the playoffs before Crosby retires.
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