Tag: Pittsburgh Penguins

Bedard trends towards Blackhawks return Tuesday

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: October 12, 2026, 20:41 CEST

Story Summary

Connor Bedard could make his season debut for the Chicago Blackhawks against the Pittsburgh Penguins at United Center on Tuesday after practising fully for a second consecutive day.

The Blackhawks captain took part fully on Monday, having first done so on Sunday. It marks another step in his return from left shoulder surgery following an injury sustained during an off-season training session in Vancouver on July 2.

Chicago coach Jeff Blashill stopped short of confirming Bedard’s place in the line-up, saying the captain was trending towards having a possibility of playing. Bedard began skating with the Blackhawks on Oct. 5 in a non-contact jersey, and his full participation has now raised the prospect of a return against Pittsburgh.

When Bedard is ready, he is expected to centre Chicago’s top line between Roman Kantserov on the left wing and Patrick Kane on the right. The 21-year-old has also said he will be able to take face-offs immediately, an important detail after his previous shoulder absence affected that part of his game.

Key Facts

Connor Bedard practised fully for the second straight day on Monday and could make his season debut against the Pittsburgh Penguins on Tuesday.
Bedard had surgery on his left shoulder after being injured during an off-season training session in Vancouver on July 2.
He began skating with Chicago on Oct. 5 while wearing a non-contact jersey.
Jeff Blashill said Bedard was trending towards having a possibility of playing, but did not confirm his availability.
When he is ready, Bedard is expected to be Chicago’s No. 1 centre, with Roman Kantserov at left wing and Patrick Kane at right wing.
Bedard said he will be able to take face-offs immediately. Last season, he did not take face-offs at first after missing 12 games with a right shoulder injury.
The first pick in the 2023 NHL Draft has 203 points, including 75 goals and 128 assists, in 219 games for Chicago.
Bedard led the Blackhawks in scoring in each of his first three NHL seasons and set NHL career highs of 75 points, 30 goals and 45 assists last season.
Chicago is 1-5-0 through six games this season.

IHM Discussion

The key development is not simply that Bedard has returned to practice, but that he has now completed two full sessions after beginning his on-ice work in a non-contact jersey. That is the clearest indication in the available information that his rehabilitation has moved closer to game consideration, while Blashill’s wording appropriately keeps Tuesday uncertain.

Bedard’s own comments add another meaningful layer. He said he feels like himself when shooting the puck and in his wider on-ice work, but also stressed that his return will come once the medical and performance staff believe his shoulder is in a good place. That makes the process one of clearance and readiness rather than a declaration that he will definitely play against Pittsburgh.

His readiness for face-offs is particularly notable because the previous season brought a more gradual return in that area. After sustaining a right shoulder injury in a last-second face-off against the St. Louis Blues on Dec. 10, 2025, Bedard returned against the Washington Capitals on Jan. 9 but did not take face-offs in a game until Feb. 26 against the Nashville Predators. He went 8-for-16 that night.

The current injury concerns his left shoulder, and Bedard has said he can take draws from the outset. If he is cleared, that would allow Chicago to use him in the central role described for him rather than needing to manage that specific responsibility after his return.

Why It Matters

Bedard is Chicago’s captain, leading scorer in each of his three NHL seasons and the player expected to occupy the No. 1 centre role when available. His potential return therefore carries significance beyond adding one forward to the line-up.

The Blackhawks have lost five of their opening six games, leaving them 1-5-0. That record does not establish what Bedard’s availability would change, but it underlines why his status is a central issue for the club early in the season.

There is also a practical distinction between merely being able to dress and being ready for the full demands of centre ice. Bedard’s stated ability to take face-offs immediately, combined with the anticipated line alongside Kantserov and Kane, points to a potential return in his usual role if he receives clearance.

Mini Q&A

Could Connor Bedard play against Pittsburgh?

He could make his season debut on Tuesday, but Jeff Blashill did not confirm that he will play.

What injury has kept Bedard out?

Bedard underwent surgery on his left shoulder after an off-season training injury in Vancouver on July 2.

Will Bedard be able to take face-offs if he returns?

Bedard said he will be able to take face-offs immediately, unlike after his right shoulder injury last season.

What is Chicago’s record without Bedard this season?

The Blackhawks are 1-5-0 through their first six games.

Coach Mark Comment

A centre returning from a shoulder issue is not judged only by whether he can shoot the puck. Face-offs involve contact, leverage and repeated body positioning, so Bedard’s statement that he can take draws straight away is a useful on-ice readiness marker. It does not settle his availability, but it suggests Chicago would not necessarily need to remove a core part of the No. 1 centre’s job if he is cleared to play.

What Comes Next

Chicago has a morning skate before Tuesday’s game against Pittsburgh. Blashill’s comments leave that skate as the immediate checkpoint before any decision on whether Bedard makes his season debut.

IHM Final View

Bedard is closer to a return than he was when he first resumed skating in a non-contact jersey, but Chicago has not announced that he will play. Full practices on consecutive days and his confidence on face-offs are encouraging signs; the final decision remains tied to his readiness and clearance.

DeBrincat price report as Stars plot Robertson talks

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: October 7, 2026, 09:16 CEST

Story Summary

Three separate NHL market threads have emerged around Alex DeBrincat, Jason Robertson and Matthew Knies, although only two concern active contract business.

David Pagnotta reported that Detroit Red Wings pending unrestricted free agent DeBrincat is believed to be seeking between $12 million and $14 million, depending on contract term. That remains a reported asking range rather than a completed deal, formal offer or confirmed negotiation outcome.

In Dallas, Stars general manager Jim Nill said the club will begin “more serious discussions” with Robertson’s agent about a contract extension on 1 December. Nill said Robertson wants to remain with the Stars and that the organisation wants him back, while stressing that both sides must find a contract that fits.

The third item is historical rather than a current transaction. Brian Burke said Pittsburgh intended to select Knies with the 58th pick of the 2021 draft, only for Toronto to take the forward at No. 57. Pittsburgh then selected Tristan Broz.

Key Facts

David Pagnotta reported that Alex DeBrincat is believed to be seeking $12 million to $14 million, with the figure depending on term.
DeBrincat was identified as a Detroit Red Wings pending unrestricted free agent.
Dallas Stars general manager Jim Nill said more serious extension discussions with Jason Robertson’s agent are scheduled to begin on 1 December.
Nill said Robertson wants to stay in Dallas and the Stars want him to return, but that the sides need to find a contract that fits.
Brian Burke said Pittsburgh planned to draft Matthew Knies at No. 58 in the 2021 draft before Toronto selected him at No. 57.
Pittsburgh selected Tristan Broz after Knies was taken by Toronto.

IHM Discussion

The DeBrincat item is the most significant immediate market report because the stated range is substantial and explicitly linked to term. It should nevertheless be handled carefully. An indicated target is not a signed contract, and there is no reported offer, contract length, negotiating timetable or agreement in place. The useful takeaway is simply that the player’s reported financial expectations sit in a $12 million to $14 million range.

Robertson’s situation carries a firmer organisational checkpoint. Nill has publicly set 1 December as the point for more serious conversations with the player’s agent, and his comments establish mutual interest in continuing the relationship. That does not settle the contract itself. The general manager’s wording leaves the central issue open: finding terms that work for both the player and club.

The Knies draft anecdote has no direct bearing on an active deal, but it offers a revealing piece of scouting history. Burke described Pittsburgh’s internal plan as Knies came off the board immediately before its selection. Toronto’s decision at No. 57 ended that possibility, and Pittsburgh moved to Broz instead. It is a reminder that draft outcomes can turn on a single selection without proving anything about later transactions or player movement.

Why It Matters

DeBrincat’s reported range matters because it provides a clear, if unverified, reference point for a pending unrestricted free agent. The eventual importance will depend on whether the reported expectations are reflected in actual talks, but no conclusion can yet be drawn about Detroit’s position or a future destination.

For Dallas, Nill’s comments offer more than general optimism. They provide a stated date for the next meaningful stage of the Robertson extension process and confirm that the club and player share an expressed desire to continue together. The remaining work is contractual rather than rhetorical.

Knies’ case is different. The story is not that Pittsburgh is pursuing him now; it is that the Penguins once viewed him as their intended second-round pick. That distinction keeps a retrospective draft story from being mistaken for present-day trade or free-agency news.

IHM Market Outlook

The three items should not be treated as one market race. DeBrincat’s reported request is a free-agent valuation signal, Robertson’s case is an announced extension-discussion timetable, and the Knies account concerns a past draft decision.

DeBrincat’s reported $12 million to $14 million range is conditional on term, which is important. The figure cannot responsibly be reduced to a single annual value because the reported information does not identify a specific contract structure. Nor does it establish that Detroit has accepted the range, that another club has made an offer, or that an agreement is close.

Dallas have supplied a more concrete procedural marker. Nill said serious talks with Robertson’s agent will start on 1 December, while also describing a shared wish for Robertson to remain. That is evidence of an intended conversation, not evidence of a finished extension. Until contractual terms are reported or announced, the market status remains unresolved.

The Knies story carries no active market claim. Burke’s recollection is notable because it identifies how narrowly Pittsburgh missed a player it liked in 2021, but it does not indicate that the Penguins are discussing a trade, have renewed contact, or possess any current pathway to acquire him.

Mini Q&A

What is Alex DeBrincat reportedly seeking?

David Pagnotta reported that DeBrincat is believed to be seeking between $12 million and $14 million, depending on contract term.

When will Dallas hold more serious talks with Jason Robertson’s agent?

Jim Nill said the Stars will begin more serious extension discussions with Robertson’s agent on 1 December.

Did Pittsburgh draft Matthew Knies in 2021?

No. Brian Burke said Pittsburgh planned to take Knies at No. 58, but Toronto selected him one pick earlier at No. 57. Pittsburgh then drafted Tristan Broz.

Coach Mark Comment

Knies was described as a power forward who brings net-front presence and physicality alongside skilled linemates. Those are complementary traits in principle: a line with puck skill benefits from a player willing to work around the crease and make the hard, direct play. The draft anecdote also underlines that Pittsburgh’s interest was rooted in that player profile at the time, not in a current roster move.

What Comes Next

The next stated checkpoint is 1 December, when Dallas plan to begin more serious contract-extension discussions with Robertson’s agent. There is no source-stated timetable for DeBrincat’s negotiations, and the Knies draft account does not contain a future transaction step.

IHM Final View

The central contract developments remain reports and early process, not completed business. DeBrincat’s reported asking range sets a notable benchmark without confirming a deal, while Dallas have publicly identified 1 December for deeper talks with Robertson’s agent. Pittsburgh’s missed opportunity on Knies is an instructive draft footnote, but not evidence of present market activity.

Mario Lemieux helps Penguins mark 60th season

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: October 4, 2026, 10:00 CEST

Story Summary

Mario Lemieux received a standing ovation as he joined the Pittsburgh Penguins‘ pregame celebration of their 60th anniversary season at PPG Paints Arena.

The Hockey Hall of Famer took to the ice before Pittsburgh’s home opener against the Montreal Canadiens and conducted a ceremonial puck drop. Sidney Crosby represented the Penguins at centre ice, with Montreal captain Nick Suzuki joining him.

The occasion deliberately echoed a defining moment in franchise history: Pittsburgh also hosted Montreal for its first home game in 1967. The original puck from that game was brought out again for the anniversary ceremony.

Key Facts

Mario Lemieux took part in a ceremonial pregame puck drop before Pittsburgh’s home opener against the Montreal Canadiens.
Fans gave Lemieux a standing ovation as he came onto the ice at PPG Paints Arena.
Doug McGregor, son of original Penguins owner Jack McGregor, joined the ceremony alongside Penguins chairman and governor Jeff Hoffman.
Sidney Crosby and Nick Suzuki met at centre ice for the puck drop.
Pittsburgh hosted Montreal in its first home game in 1967, and the original puck from that game was used in the anniversary ceremony.
The Penguins have won the Stanley Cup five times: 1991, 1992, 2009, 2016 and 2017.

IHM Discussion

The ceremony connected the Penguins’ founding era with the club’s modern identity. Lemieux is central to that history, while Crosby’s presence represented the current generation of Pittsburgh leadership.

Recreating the franchise’s original home matchup against Montreal gave the occasion a clear historical thread rather than simply marking an anniversary. Bringing back the original puck added a tangible link to the first chapter of Penguins hockey.

Why It Matters

A 60th anniversary season gives Pittsburgh an opportunity to recognise the people and moments that shaped the organisation. Lemieux’s reception underlined his standing with the club, while the inclusion of Crosby and the 1967 connection placed the ceremony across multiple eras of Penguins history.

Mini Q&A

Who took part in the Penguins’ 60th anniversary puck drop?

Mario Lemieux conducted the ceremonial puck drop, with Sidney Crosby and Montreal’s Nick Suzuki meeting at centre ice. Doug McGregor and Penguins chairman and governor Jeff Hoffman also joined the ceremony.

Why was Montreal the opponent for the ceremony?

The Canadiens were Pittsburgh’s opponent for the Penguins’ first home game in 1967, making the home opener a rematch of that original occasion.

Coach Mark Comment

Ceremonies work best when they keep the hockey connection clear. This one did that by pairing franchise history with the present-day captains at centre ice and by using the original puck from Pittsburgh’s first home game.

IHM Final View

Pittsburgh’s anniversary opening was built around continuity: the original 1967 matchup, a franchise icon in Lemieux and the present-day presence of Crosby. The ceremony gave the 60th season a direct connection to the Penguins’ history.

Crosby, Penguins content to let extension talks run

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: September 29, 2026, 07:38 CEST

Story Summary

Sidney Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins are comfortable beginning the regular season without a new contract in place, with general manager Kyle Dubas saying there is no pressure to reach an agreement by a particular date.

Crosby, 39, is entering the final season of the two-year, $17.4 million contract carrying an $8.7 million average annual value that he signed on September 16, 2024. Pittsburgh will continue talks with Pat Brisson, Crosby’s agent, while the captain concentrates on his 22nd NHL season.

The centre said he does not require a new agreement before Pittsburgh opens the regular season against the Philadelphia Flyers on Wednesday. His position reflects the uncertainty that naturally accompanies a long-term decision at this stage of a career: Crosby said he cannot know in advance how his body will feel later in the season and intends to focus on preparation and playing.

That measured approach comes after another highly productive campaign. Crosby led Pittsburgh with 74 points, including 29 goals and 45 assists, in 68 games last season. He also extended his NHL record to 21 seasons averaging at least a point per game, helping the Penguins finish second in the Metropolitan Division and return to the Stanley Cup Playoffs after a three-year absence.

The organisation’s wider decisions are not limited to Crosby. Evgeni Malkin and Erik Karlsson are also approaching the ends of their respective contracts, although their situations are distinct. Malkin signed a one-year, $5.5 million contract in May, while Karlsson is in the final season of the eight-year, $92 million deal he signed with the San Jose Sharks in 2019. Dubas has described communication with each player as open, but has not offered public commitments on future contracts.

Key Facts

Sidney Crosby is entering the final season of his two-year, $17.4 million contract, which carries an $8.7 million average annual value.
Kyle Dubas said Pittsburgh and Crosby’s agent, Pat Brisson, will continue contract discussions without a deadline.
Crosby said he is comfortable allowing those discussions to continue while he focuses on playing.
The 39-year-old centre is set to play his 22nd NHL season after Pittsburgh selected him No. 1 in the 2005 NHL Draft.
Crosby led the Penguins with 74 points, made up of 29 goals and 45 assists, in 68 games last season.
His 21st season averaging at least a point per game extended his NHL record.
Evgeni Malkin is playing on a one-year, $5.5 million contract signed in May.
Erik Karlsson has one season left on the eight-year, $92 million contract he signed with San Jose in 2019; he said a new Pittsburgh contract has not been discussed.
Pittsburgh returned to the playoffs last season, finishing second in the Metropolitan Division before losing to Philadelphia in six games in the Eastern Conference First Round.

IHM Discussion

There is a significant difference between an unresolved contract and a strained negotiation, and Pittsburgh has presented this as the former. Dubas and Crosby are aligned publicly on the immediate priority: begin the season, maintain dialogue and avoid imposing an artificial timetable on a decision involving the franchise captain.

That is especially understandable in Crosby’s case. His recent production remains elite, but he has been clear that his physical response over a full season matters when considering the future. That is not a declaration about an outcome; it is a sensible acknowledgement that the player’s own assessment during the year will be important.

For Pittsburgh, the benefit of this approach is clarity of purpose in the short term. Crosby can lead the team without the daily attention that a self-imposed deadline can create, while the front office can continue its conversations privately. The challenge is that Crosby’s status sits alongside major decisions involving Malkin and Karlsson, two other accomplished veterans with contracts nearing their conclusions.

Dubas has also framed the club’s larger objective as moving decisively away from the middle of the League while developing young stars and becoming less reliant on ageing veterans. That context explains why individual discussions may require patience. The organisation is weighing the direction of the team alongside the preferences and form of players who have been central to its recent progress.

Why It Matters

Crosby remains Pittsburgh’s captain, leading scorer from last season and the player most closely linked to the club’s identity. His contract status therefore carries importance beyond a standard pending deal.

The lack of a deadline does not change his immediate role, but it allows both sides to evaluate the season as it develops. Crosby’s performance, physical comfort and view of the team’s direction are all factors Dubas identified as relevant for players at this stage of their careers.

Pittsburgh is also managing several veteran contract situations at once. Malkin’s one-year agreement and Karlsson’s expiring contract make clear communication important, particularly as the Penguins try to pair their experienced core with the development of younger players.

IHM Market Outlook

The Penguins have not announced a Crosby extension, and there is no indication that the current discussions have produced an agreement. The meaningful market fact is simply that both sides are willing to continue talking without setting a public deadline.

Malkin and Karlsson add to the number of major decisions facing Pittsburgh. Malkin avoided unrestricted free agency by signing his one-year deal in May, but Dubas declined to discuss publicly whether another short-term agreement could follow. Karlsson, meanwhile, said no new contract talks had taken place, despite open communication with the club.

Those parallel situations should not be treated as one negotiation. Crosby’s talks are active; Malkin’s longer-term future has not been publicly defined; and Karlsson has said a new contract has not been discussed. What connects them is the need for Pittsburgh to assess the club’s direction while respecting the preferences of veteran players.

Mini Q&A

Does Sidney Crosby have a new contract with Pittsburgh?

No. Crosby is entering the final season of his current two-year contract, and discussions with the Penguins are continuing.

What is Crosby’s current contract worth?

His current two-year contract is worth $17.4 million and carries an $8.7 million average annual value.

Why is there no deadline for a Crosby extension?

Dubas said Pittsburgh does not feel pressure to complete a deal by a particular date, while Crosby said he wants to focus on playing and cannot predict how he will feel later in the season.

Which other Penguins veterans have expiring contracts?

Evgeni Malkin is on a one-year contract, while Erik Karlsson is entering the final season of his existing eight-year contract.

Coach Mark Comment

The immediate coaching value is stability. Crosby has made clear that his focus is on playing, and Pittsburgh can begin the season with its captain’s attention directed towards the daily demands of the schedule rather than a public contract deadline. His 74 points in 68 games last season underline that the team is still relying heavily on his ability to drive offence.

The broader task is managing that reliance while young players develop. Dubas has stated that Pittsburgh wants to become less dependent on ageing veterans, so the season provides an important opportunity for the club to build support around its established leaders rather than asking them to carry every key moment.

What Comes Next

Pittsburgh is scheduled to open its regular season against the Philadelphia Flyers on Wednesday. Crosby’s contract discussions with the Penguins and Pat Brisson are expected to continue, but no deadline for an agreement has been set.

IHM Final View

Pittsburgh and Crosby have chosen patience over urgency. There is no new deal to announce, but there is also no public indication of friction. The captain enters the final year of his contract after leading the Penguins in scoring, while the organisation balances his future against a wider effort to shape its next phase.

Kuzmenko takes leave from Penguins after father’s death

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: September 24, 2026, 21:55 CEST

Story Summary

Andrei Kuzmenko has taken a leave of absence from the Pittsburgh Penguins to mourn the death of his father, Alexander Kuzmenko. The 30-year-old forward practised with the Penguins on Thursday before travelling to Moscow to be with his family. Alexander Kuzmenko, 62, was killed by a bear while on a fishing trip in the Tuva Republic in southern Siberia. Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas expressed the organisation’s sorrow, offered support to the family and asked that their privacy be respected.

Key Facts

Andrei Kuzmenko has taken a leave of absence from the Pittsburgh Penguins to mourn the death of his father, Alexander Kuzmenko.
The 30-year-old forward practised with the Penguins on Thursday before departing for Moscow to be with his family.
Alexander Kuzmenko, 62, was killed by a bear while on a fishing trip in the Tuva Republic in southern Siberia and suffered extensive tissue damage after being bitten in the head.
Alexander Kuzmenko was with six travel companions who managed to drive the bear away and moved him to a nearby settlement; he was airlifted to a hospital in Kyzyl but was unable to be saved.
Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas said: ” The Pittsburgh Penguins organization was deeply saddened, this morning, to learn of the passing of Andrei Kuzmenko’s father, Alexander. Our deepest thoughts and sympathies are with the Kuzmenko family and their loved ones as they grieve the loss of Alexander. We ask that the privacy of Andrei and the Kuzmenko family be respected at this time.”
Dubas also said: ” Andrei chose to be surrounded by his teammates and practice with the team this morning before returning to Moscow to be with his family this afternoon. Andrei and the Kuzmenko family have the full support of the Penguins organization during this time.”
Andrei Kuzmenko signed a one-year, $5 million contract with the Penguins on July 1.
Last season, Kuzmenko had 25 points (13 goals, 12 assists) in 52 games for the Los Angeles Kings and underwent surgery in February to repair a torn meniscus in his knee.
Entering his fifth NHL season, Kuzmenko has 182 points (85 goals, 97 assists) in 271 regular-season NHL games for the Vancouver Canucks, Calgary Flames, Philadelphia Flyers and Los Angeles Kings, and six points (three goals, three assists) in seven Stanley Cup Playoff games.
Alexander Kuzmenko was described as a respected hockey coach in Russia.

IHM Discussion

The Penguins have confirmed a tragic family bereavement for Andrei Kuzmenko. General manager Kyle Dubas expressed the organisation’s condolences, asked for privacy and said Kuzmenko has the club’s full support. Kuzmenko practised with the team on Thursday before leaving for Moscow to be with his family.

For Pittsburgh, the situation is first and foremost a human one. Kuzmenko is a 30-year-old forward who signed a one-year, $5 million contract on 1 July. He had 25 points, including 13 goals, in 52 games for the Los Angeles Kings last season before undergoing surgery in February to repair a torn meniscus in his knee.

Alexander Kuzmenko, 62, was a respected hockey coach in Russia. He was on a fishing trip in the Tuva Republic in southern Siberia when he was attacked by a bear. His companions drove the animal away and moved him to a nearby settlement before he was airlifted to a hospital in Kyzyl, where he could not be saved.

Pittsburgh will manage Kuzmenko’s absence as needed, but no return timeline or roster move has been specified. The immediate priority remains support for Kuzmenko and his family.

Why It Matters

This is principally a personal tragedy rather than an on-ice development, although it comes during the Penguins’ preparations for the regular season. Kuzmenko is a contracted forward who practised before leaving to be with his family, and any extended absence could affect forward depth and line combinations. The immediate priority is support and flexibility while the player is away.

Mini Q&A

Why is Andrei Kuzmenko on leave from the Penguins?

Kuzmenko is on leave to mourn the death of his father, Alexander Kuzmenko, who was killed in a bear attack while on a fishing trip in the Tuva Republic in southern Siberia.

What happened to Alexander Kuzmenko?

Alexander, 62, was killed by a bear while on a fishing trip in the Tuva Republic in southern Siberia. He was moved to a nearby settlement by his travel companions and airlifted to a hospital in Kyzyl, where he could not be saved.

When did Kuzmenko sign with the Penguins and what is his contract?

Andrei Kuzmenko signed a one-year, $5 million contract with the Pittsburgh Penguins on July 1.

What are Kuzmenko’s recent playing and injury details?

Last season he had 25 points (13 goals, 12 assists) in 52 games for the Los Angeles Kings and underwent surgery in February to repair a torn meniscus in his knee.

Is there a confirmed return date for Kuzmenko?

No. The Penguins’ statement confirms he left to be with his family and says he has the organisation’s support; it does not provide a timeline for his return.

Coach Mark Comment

The coaching priority is straightforward: give the player space and support, while keeping the group prepared for the work in front of it. Pittsburgh can use internal options to cover any short-term absence and keep its plans flexible until Kuzmenko is ready to return.

IHM Final View

This is a sudden and tragic family bereavement for Andrei Kuzmenko. He practised with the Penguins before leaving for Moscow to be with his family, and the club has publicly offered its support while asking for privacy. For now, the focus is on Kuzmenko and his family rather than the Penguins’ on-ice plans.

Pirates’ Spencer Horwitz Skates with Evgeni Malkin

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: September 24, 2026, 10:01 CEST

Story Summary

Pittsburgh Pirates first baseman Spencer Horwitz spent time on the ice at the Pittsburgh Penguins practice facility with Evgeni Malkin, appearing in a social-media video posted by the Pirates.

Key Facts

Spencer Horwitz is a first baseman for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Horwitz skated at the Pittsburgh Penguins practice facility with Evgeni Malkin.
The Pirates posted a social-media video of the skate session.
In the video Horwitz told Malkin, “Put me through the practice, I’m ready.”
Malkin responded, “I’m not the coach yet. I’m still a good player.”
Horwitz played as a defenseman in high school hockey and led his team to two state titles.
On-ice in the clip, Horwitz showed stick handling and shot at an open net while wearing Penguins gear.

IHM Discussion

The skate session is a straightforward human-interest moment that underscores Horwitz’s multi-sport background and the informal connections between professional athletes across leagues. The video, posted by the Pirates, captures Horwitz returning to a sport he played through high school; the quotes exchanged with Malkin frame the visit as playful rather than formal instruction. For hockey observers the item is notable because it involves Evgeni Malkin, a high-profile NHL player, and because it documents a non-hockey professional athlete visibly maintaining on-ice skills such as stick handling and shooting.

Why It Matters

This matters as light, cross-sport content: it highlights how athletic skills endure beyond a player’s chosen professional path and provides a moment of fan engagement for both Pirates and Penguins followers. The video also emphasises the local sporting culture in Pittsburgh, where athletes from different disciplines can interact at shared facilities.

Mini Q&A

Who skated together at the Penguins practice facility?

Pittsburgh Pirates first baseman Spencer Horwitz skated at the Penguins practice facility with Evgeni Malkin.

Who shared the skate-session video?

The Pittsburgh Pirates shared the video, including the on-ice footage and exchange between Horwitz and Malkin.

What did Horwitz do on the ice?

Horwitz showed stick handling, wore Penguins gear and took shots at an open net in the video.

Did Malkin coach Horwitz in the clip?

No. In the video Malkin responded to Horwitz by saying, “I’m not the coach yet. I’m still a good player.”

Coach Mark Comment

Horwitz’s skate is a useful reminder of the value of multi-sport development. His background as a high-school defenceman is evident in the comfort he showed handling the puck and shooting in an informal setting.

Sidney Crosby delivers season tickets, wows fans

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: September 16, 2026, 08:39 CEST

Story Summary

Sidney Crosby visited fans in southwestern Pennsylvania as part of the Pittsburgh Penguins‘ annual season-ticket delivery tradition, speaking with the Duryea family while teammates Kris Letang, Erik Karlsson, Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell also made visits. At 39, Crosby remains a central figure in the region; he signed a permission slip for young fan Lucy Duryea and spoke about the long-standing connection fans feel to the team. The visit came during the week before training camp, with Crosby due to take the ice with his teammates later in the week.

Key Facts

Sidney Crosby, 39, participated in the Penguins’ annual season-ticket delivery visits in southwestern Pennsylvania.
Crosby visited the Duryea family – Neal and Jenny and their children Lucy, Josie and James – and focused conversation on the family and their history as ticket holders.
Lucy Duryea gave Crosby a school permission slip, which he signed.
Neal Duryea said, ” He just seems like a normal guy.”
Several Penguins teammates also made deliveries, including defencemen Kris Letang and Erik Karlsson and forwards Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell.
The Duryea family first bought season tickets in either 2010 or 2011, Neal said.
Crosby has won the Stanley Cup three times with the Penguins (2009, 2016, 2017).
This season will be Crosby’s 22nd in the NHL and the final year of a two-year, $17.4 million contract with an $8.7 million average annual value signed Sept. 16, 2024.
Last season Crosby led the Penguins with 74 points (29 goals, 45 assists) in 68 games.
Crosby extended his NHL record to 21 consecutive seasons averaging at least a point per game.
He will become the longest-tenured professional athlete in Pittsburgh sports history, passing Willie Stargell, who played 21 seasons with the Pittsburgh Pirates (1962-82).
Crosby said he feels ” pretty good” physically and that decisions about the future will depend on ” your level, it’s how your body feels.”

IHM Discussion

The ticket-delivery tradition has become a touchstone for the Penguins and a concrete reminder of Sidney Crosby’s long relationship with Pittsburgh. The visits are low-key: Crosby centres the conversation on families, asks about children and routines, and makes small, memorable gestures such as signing a permission slip. Those gestures reinforce the bond between a star player and the local fanbase.

His on-ice production remains central to Crosby’s standing. He led the Penguins with 74 points in 68 games last season and extended his record to 21 consecutive seasons averaging at least a point per game. The combination of elite output and visible community engagement underlines his enduring importance to the Penguins and their supporters.

Why It Matters

For the Penguins, Crosby’s presence extends beyond his on-ice production. His interactions with long-term season-ticket holders maintain a visible connection between the club and families who have followed it through championships and roster change.

The visits also come in the final year of Crosby’s current contract. He said decisions about the future will depend on his level and how his body feels, leaving his longer-term plans unresolved.

Mini Q&A

What did Sidney Crosby do during the Penguins’ season-ticket tradition?

He visited season-ticket holders across southwestern Pennsylvania, including the Duryea family, spoke with them about their history as fans and signed a permission slip for young fan Lucy Duryea.

Which Penguins teammates joined Crosby in making deliveries?

Defencemen Kris Letang and Erik Karlsson and forwards Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell also made deliveries.

How productive was Crosby last season?

Crosby led the Penguins with 74 points – 29 goals and 45 assists – in 68 games last season.

What contract and career milestones were noted in the report?

This season will be Crosby’s 22nd in the NHL and the final year of a two-year, $17.4 million contract ($8.7 million average annual value) signed Sept. 16, 2024; he has won three Stanley Cups with the Penguins (2009, 2016, 2017) and extended his record to 21 consecutive seasons averaging at least a point per game.

What did fans say about Crosby after the visit?

Neal Duryea said, ” He just seems like a normal guy,” and Lucy Duryea said she felt a rush of excitement and that ” he’s really nice.”

Coach Mark Comment

Crosby’s willingness to give supporters his time reflects a captain who understands the value of connection. That example can carry into a dressing room: leadership is often most effective when it is consistent, personal and visible.

What Comes Next

Crosby is due to take the ice with the Penguins at training camp later in the week. He is also likely to make more ticket deliveries next year, though that is not guaranteed.

IHM Final View

The ticket deliveries are small gestures with outsized resonance. They show how Crosby remains central to the Penguins’ identity – through sustained on-ice production and through personal, local engagement. With one year remaining on his current contract and training camp imminent, the visits were a timely reminder of why Crosby matters to both the club and its long-time supporters.

Sidney Crosby in talks with Penguins over future

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: September 8, 2026, 20:17 CEST

Story Summary

Sidney Crosby confirmed he is talking with the Pittsburgh Penguins about another contract as he approaches the final season of his current deal. The 39-year-old said his agent, Pat Brisson, is speaking with Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas, and that he wants to keep playing “for a number of years.” Crosby also made it clear he is motivated to represent Canada at the World Cup of Hockey in 2028.

Key Facts

Sidney Crosby is 39 and has one season remaining on a two-year, $17.4 million contract signed Sept. 16, 2024 ($8.7 million AAV).
Crosby said at the NHL/NHLPA North American Player Media Tour that “Pat’s talking to Kyle,”referring to agent Pat Brisson and GM Kyle Dubas.
He told reporters he would like to continue playing “for a number of years,”but did not set a precise term and acknowledged uncertainty year to year.
Crosby said he is unsure whether a new deal will be reached before training camp or the start of the regular season; training camps open next week.
He is motivated to represent Canada at the World Cup of Hockey in February 2028; he will be 40 that month.
Last season Crosby led the Penguins with 74 points (29 goals, 45 assists) in 68 games and averaged a point per game for the 21st straight season, an NHL record.
The Penguins qualified for the Stanley Cup Playoffs last season and lost to the Philadelphia Flyers in six games in the Eastern Conference First Round.
Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang are entering their 21st season together as teammates; Malkin, 40, signed a one-year, $5.5 million contract on May 26.
Letang, 39, is under contract through 2027-28 on a six-year, $36.6 million deal ($6.1 million AAV).
Crosby has won three Stanley Cups with the Penguins (2009, 2016, 2017) and multiple best-on-best tournaments; he took silver with Canada at the recent Olympics.
At the Olympics Crosby had six points (two goals, four assists) in four games before missing the final two games with a lower-body injury, including a 2-1 overtime loss to Team USA in the gold medal game.

IHM Discussion

Crosby’s comments make two things clear: he wants to keep playing and the mechanics of any extension are in the hands of his representation and the Penguins’ front office. One year remains on his current two-year deal, and Pat Brisson and Kyle Dubas are in talks. Crosby framed the negotiation as more complex at his age because it is harder to predict how he will feel from one season to the next, and he did not rule out either a season-by-season approach or a multiyear agreement.

That uncertainty shapes Pittsburgh’s immediate planning. Crosby’s language is not that of a player pushing for a rushed long-term pact; it is measured and pragmatic. He said there is no set timeline and that he is not in a rush. With training camp and the season opener approaching, an extension could arrive before the first puck drops or be left until later.

Crosby led Pittsburgh with 74 points in 68 games last season and maintained a point-per-game pace for a 21st consecutive season, an NHL record. That production, alongside his role as captain and his long partnership with Malkin and Letang, keeps him central to the team’s short-term outlook. His own caution about year-to-year variability, however, underlines the uncertainty involved in projecting the next contract.

Why It Matters

Crosby’s contract situation matters to the Penguins on and off the ice. He is the captain and face of the franchise, while he, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang are entering their 21st season together as teammates. Their continuity remains a major part of Pittsburgh’s identity after the club returned to the playoffs last season.

Crosby’s desire to play towards the World Cup of Hockey in 2028 also carries significance for international hockey. He said the recent Olympic experience, despite its disappointing finish for Canada, motivates him to pursue another best-on-best tournament. The length and timing of his next deal remain undecided, but he has made clear that continuing to play is his aim.

Mini Q&A

Is Sidney Crosby negotiating a new contract with the Penguins?

Yes. Crosby said he is talking with the Penguins about another contract and that his agent Pat Brisson is speaking with GM Kyle Dubas.

How much time remains on Crosby’s current deal?

He has one season remaining on a two-year, $17.4 million contract ($8.7 million AAV) signed on Sept. 16, 2024.

Does Crosby want to keep playing and for how long?

Crosby said he would like to continue playing “for a number of years,”but he did not specify how many and acknowledged uncertainty year to year.

Is Crosby aiming to play for Team Canada at the World Cup of Hockey 2028?

Yes. Crosby said he is motivated to represent Canada at the World Cup of Hockey in February 2028.

Will Crosby’s new deal be completed before training camp?

Crosby said he is unsure and that there is no set timeline; training camps open next week and discussions are ongoing.

Coach Mark Comment

Crosby’s comments point to a sensible approach: assess each season on its own merits. His recent production shows he remains capable of carrying major responsibility, while Pittsburgh can continue to manage his role according to performance and how he feels over the course of the season. Whatever the contract term, keeping its captain in positions where he can influence games will remain central to the Penguins’ plans.

What Comes Next

Training camps open next week; the Penguins’ regular-season opener is at the Philadelphia Flyers on Sept. 30. Crosby said he is unsure whether a contract will be reached before training camp or the start of the regular season; his agent Pat Brisson and GM Kyle Dubas are in discussions.

IHM Final View

Sidney Crosby remains a high-performing captain whose next contract is an open question rather than an imminent crisis. He made clear he wants to continue playing while acknowledging the harder task of projecting future seasons at 39. The substance of the negotiations will be determined by his representatives and the Penguins’ front office, but Crosby’s recent production and his expressed motivation to participate in the World Cup of Hockey 2028 give him a compelling case to continue. For Pittsburgh, the immediate priority is clear: prepare for camp and the season while discussions continue, with roster and deployment decisions made in the knowledge that Crosby remains both a top contributor and an ageing star whose future term could be short or multi-year.

Penguins may listen on Rust and Rakell as Karlsson speculation persists

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: September 3, 2026, 08:08 CEST

Story Summary

Pittsburgh may have more forwards than roster space requires, with Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell potentially available if a club meets a specific asking price. A mailbag report suggested that moving either player immediately before the season would make little sense and indicated that a Sidney Crosby extension could be only weeks away. Erik Karlsson was also identified as a possible trade candidate later in the year, while a separate ranking placed him among the league’s potential trade targets. General manager Kyle Dubas reportedly explored moving up in the draft but found the cost too high. Pittsburgh could reassess its position around the holidays, adding if it is in the playoff picture or fielding calls on veterans if it falls out of contention.

Key Facts

A mailbag report suggested the Penguins may have too many forwards and that Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell could be available if a specific price is met.
Kyle Dubas reportedly wanted to move up in the draft, but the price was higher than expected.
Pittsburgh may reassess around the holidays: it could look to add if in a playoff spot, or receive calls on Erik Karlsson, Rust, Rakell and others if out of the race.
Karlsson, 36, is entering the final year of his contract and was described as a player who could retain trade value.
Karlsson ranked 14th on a list of possible 2026-27 trade candidates, while Rust and Rakell received honourable mentions.

IHM Discussion

The reports portray Pittsburgh as willing to listen rather than eager to move established players at a discount. Rust and Rakell are framed as conditional trade options, while Karlsson could draw attention if the club’s season shifts towards selling. No offer, asking price or transaction has been reported. The key decision point may come around the holidays, when Pittsburgh’s place in the standings could shape whether it adds to the roster or entertains calls on veterans.

Why It Matters

A trade involving Rust, Rakell or Karlsson would affect Pittsburgh’s experienced core and roster depth. For Dubas, the larger question is whether the club’s performance warrants adding to the group or considering offers for established players. A potential Crosby extension remains an important piece of context, but it has not been confirmed.

IHM Market Outlook

Karlsson’s age and final contract year are relevant factors in any potential market, while Rust and Rakell have been described only as available at a specific price. That does not establish an active sale or reveal what Pittsburgh would seek in return. Dubas’ unsuccessful effort to move up in the draft also indicates that the club encountered a costly market, without establishing how it would approach any player trade.

Mini Q&A

Are Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell definitely for sale?

No. Rust and Rakell were described as potentially available only if a specific price is met, and a move immediately before the season was considered unlikely. Their availability is conditional, not confirmed.

Is Erik Karlsson expected to be traded?

No trade is expected or confirmed. Karlsson was listed among possible trade candidates and could draw interest, but that does not mean a move is imminent.

Will the Penguins make trades before the 2026-27 season starts?

A move immediately before the season was described as unlikely. Pittsburgh could reassess later, particularly around the holidays, depending on its place in the standings.

What short-term events should fans watch for?

19 as pre-season start, Sept. 29 as regular-season opening night and Oct. 13 as the date when all 32 teams play; those are immediate checkpoints. Yohe also highlighted the holidays as a potential decision point for trade activity.

Did the Penguins trade to move up in the draft?

No. Dubas reportedly wanted to move up in the draft, but the price was higher than expected and no move was completed.

Coach Mark Comment

With trade speculation around veteran players, the coaching priority is to keep roles clear and competition healthy. pre-season can help establish combinations and special-teams responsibilities, while the front office evaluates its options.

What Comes Next

The immediate on-ice checkpoints are the start of pre-season on 19 September and opening night on 29 September.

IHM Final View

This is trade speculation, not confirmation that Pittsburgh intends to move anyone. Rust and Rakell have been portrayed as available only at the right price, while Karlsson is a possible candidate if the club’s circumstances change. A Crosby extension and Pittsburgh’s standing around the holidays are developments to watch, but neither establishes an imminent transaction.

Penguins secure Novak with three-year, $13.95M deal

By IceHockeyMan Editorial Team | Published: August 11, 2026, 06:37 CEST

Story Summary

The Pittsburgh Penguins have extended Thomas Novak for three years at a total value of $13.95 million, carrying an average annual value of $4.65 million. The 29-year-old, who played every game in 2025-26 and posted 16 goals and 42 points, had been scheduled to reach unrestricted free agency after the 2026-27 season.

The contract buys Pittsburgh another reliable middle-six option and keeps intact the forward depth figure the club acquired from Nashville in March 2025. For a team still shaping its forward group around elite scorers, Novak’s extension is as much about steadying minutes and role certainty as it is about point production.

Key Facts

The Penguins signed Thomas Novak to a three-year extension worth $13.95 million, with an average annual value of $4.65 million, announced by the team on Friday.
Novak is 29 and would have become an unrestricted free agent after the 2026-27 season prior to this deal.
In 2025-26 Novak played all 82 regular-season games, scoring 16 goals and totalling 42 points. He added two assists in six playoff games.
Novak joined Pittsburgh in March 2025 after being acquired from the Nashville Predators alongside Luke Schenn, in exchange for Michael Bunting and a fourth-round pick.
He was selected by Nashville in the third round, 85th overall, of the 2015 NHL Draft.

IHM Discussion

At face value the extension is a pragmatic move. Pittsburgh has committed mid-term dollars to a player whose recent track record is defined more by availability and dependable minutes than by top-end offence. Locking Novak up at $4.65 million AAV tells us the Penguins value what he brings to the middle-six: two-way minutes, reliable board work and the occasional secondary scoring boost.

There are two calculated bets embedded in the contract. First, that Novak’s steady usage will remain useful next to Pittsburgh’s high-event offensive top end, where defensive responsibility and transitional support become premium traits. Second, that his floor – playing all 82 games and handling match-up duties – outweighs the upside Pittsburgh is forgoing by not pursuing a cheaper, higher-variance alternative each summer.

This is not a splash signing. It is a roster-management choice that trades some short-term cap flexibility for continuity in a role that coaches prize. For Novak personally, the extension gives him security at an age where teams often prefer certainty over one-year gambles.

IHM Market Outlook

The price tag places Novak in the middle of the market for dependable third-to-second-line forwards. At $4.65 million, Pittsburgh has set a market marker for comparably profiled players who combine reliability with modest offence. For cap managers around the league, Novak’s deal may serve as a reference point when calibrating commitments for veterans who bring minutes and match-up value rather than high-end scoring.

For Pittsburgh specifically, the extension stabilises short-term roster planning. It reduces the need to chase a similar player in next summer’s free-agent pool and protects the club from losing Novak for nothing after 2026-27. The logical trade-off is slightly less wage flexibility, which could matter if the Penguins chase a high-priced top-six winger or a defensive upgrade before the contract expires.

Why It Matters

Pittsburgh’s core forwards are still the team’s primary engine, but depth wins regular-season minutes and playoff match-ups. Novak’s dependability nudges the Penguins toward a smaller margin of error: when a top-six scorer needs rest or a matchup changes during a playoff series, Novak is the predictable option who can step in without forcing a wholesale tactical adjustment.

That predictability matters in two arenas. In-season, it makes line juggling simpler for the coaching staff and preserves role clarity for younger forwards pushing through the system. In the postseason, it gives Pittsburgh a lineup piece they trust against opposing depth lines and in defensive-zone starts. The contract therefore reduces one roster variable at a modest cost to cap flexibility.

Fan Pulse

Do you prefer teams to lock in steady role players or to chase higher-upside options at the same cap cost? Does a three-year deal for Novak feel like prudent insurance or an unnecessary commitment?

Mini Q& A

Why did Pittsburgh extend Novak now rather than next summer?

Extending him now removes the risk of losing him in unrestricted free agency and ensures continuity in their forward group while the team manages cap and roster construction.

Is $4.65 million a fair price?

It aligns with market rates for reliable middle-six forwards who provide consistent minutes, defensive responsibility and secondary scoring. Whether it is fair depends on how much value the Penguins place on availability and match-up capability.

Does this block a younger player from NHL minutes?

It could delay a prospect’s promotion if the team prefers veteran steadiness in the short term, but it also keeps Pittsburgh from rushing a younger player into a role they may not yet be ready to handle.

Could Novak move up the lineup?

He has shown he can handle varied minutes, but his offensive ceiling suggests he will most likely remain a middle-six option rather than a consistent top-six scorer.

Coach Mark Comment

From a coaching perspective the most valuable trait Novak provides is trustable minutes. Coaches work in margins; when a game tightens or a series demands defensive discipline, having a player who will execute the assigned reads and won’t gamble for highlight plays is worth a measurable amount of ice time. That predictability affects matchup planning, line rotation and how you deploy your top lines against heavy competition.

Practically, Novak gives a coach a reliable option for penalty-killing overlap between forwards and defence, and a player who can handle neutral-zone transitions without collapsing support. Those are the moments where you either get scored on or you prevent a dangerous sequence. Coaching is about reducing chaos over 60 minutes, and players who consistently close gaps, make the safe outlet and win the first puck in the defensive zone make that job easier.

On development and communication, this signing signals to younger forwards what earns sustained NHL minutes. It is not always the flash goal or the highlight reel entry; it is dependable reads, consistent skating lanes and trustworthy decision-making under pressure. For a prospect, watching Novak’s role reinforces the importance of read-and-react hockey: preserving possession through smart exits, winning board battles, and being positionally sound on the forecheck and backcheck.

Finally, in a systems context Novak fits as a stabiliser. He helps maintain structure on the third line, preserving offensive energy on the top two lines without forcing them into defensive recovery. That allows the coaching staff to use more aggressive tactics above him, knowing the middle-six can absorb intensity and calm the game when required.

IHM Final View

Pittsburgh bought certainty. The three-year extension for Thomas Novak is less about projection and more about locking in a role-player whose availability and matchup competence simplify coaching decisions and reduce seasonal volatility. In an era where teams swing between high-risk signings and constant roster churn, the Penguins have chosen the quieter path: pay a mid-market price to remove a recurring question mark from their lineup. For managers and coaches trying to win tight playoff games, that kind of certainty is often underrated; it does not produce headlines, but it keeps the engine running when everything else is under pressure.