The Pittsburgh Penguins’ 2026 Stanley Cup Playoff run ended abruptly in the first round against the Philadelphia Flyers, who exposed the Penguins’ age and lack of speed over six games. Despite expectations of a rebuild and a focus on acquiring Gavin McKenna, the Penguins outperformed many predictions.
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However, questions loom over the current roster and the strategic direction General Manager Kyle Dubas will pursue. Past administrations were reportedly constrained by ownership’s desire to maintain competitiveness with veterans Sidney Crosby, Kris Letang, and Evgeni Malkin. Even with Crosby signing an extension and expressing a desire to remain with the team, trade rumors persisted.
Malkin, a pending unrestricted free agent, also became a subject of speculation, with contract negotiations postponed until after the season. Dubas has been actively retooling the team on the fly to maintain competitiveness. Nevertheless, this remains a team in transition, and the rumors surrounding Malkin and Crosby are resurfacing.
Jim Biringer of NHLRumors.com and Full Press Media discussed the Pittsburgh Penguins’ roster and the likelihood of significant changes for the next season during a recent appearance on TSN Radio in Montreal.
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Host: “Regarding that series, they have four former superstars: Malkin, Crosby, Letang, and Karlsson. How different will this team look in October?”
Jim Biringer: “I believe it will be different. They have many crucial decisions to make, and Kyle Dubas faces a significant workload. While Crosby is still with the team, the ongoing discussion will revolve around his future: will he stay, will he continue playing, is another extension possible, or could he be traded again?
What about Malkin? Will they re-sign him? I know he wants to return, but will it be a one-year or a two-year deal? Kris Letang still has time left on his contract, as does Karlsson. However, in my opinion, Letang no longer seems to possess the same effectiveness. He could potentially have a strong offseason and return, but it feels like the end of an era for that core group of the Pittsburgh Penguins, and the team’s appearance will undoubtedly change.
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Furthermore, how many players will have career-defining seasons again next year for the Penguins, such as Connor Dewar and Anthony Mantha? They have numerous contracts to manage and resolve. And then there’s the goaltending situation: who will be in net? Will it be Artur Silovs and Stuart Skinner? Are they bringing him back?
Kyle Dubas faces a multitude of question marks. This upcoming season will feature a Penguins team that looks distinctly different.”