Penguins Ponder Future as Graves Struggles
The Pittsburgh Penguins face a dilemma regarding defenseman Ryan Graves. While he has shown slight improvement this season, his performance still falls short of expectations, leading to his benching for the fourth consecutive game. The team’s recent success without him raises tough questions about his future in Pittsburgh.
"We’ve been patient, we’ve been hard on him when necessary, and we’ve given him a pat on the back when necessary," Penguins head coach Mike Sullivan stated. "To Graves’ credit, he’s actually been better this season, but it’s hardly been worthy of the salary we pay him."
Noting the strong correlation between Graves’ absence from the lineup and the team’s victories, some analysts suggest his presence might be detrimental to the team’s performance.
Statistical evidence supports this concern. Over the past two seasons, the Penguins boast a 10-4-4 record when Graves is scratched or injured, which translates to a impressive 113-point pace. Conversely, with Graves in the lineup, their record plummets to 38-40-12.
"We’re not thrilled with his performance," Sullivan admitted. "We see improvement in sheltered minutes but he’s still losing battles in front of the net, despite his size. Offensively, he hasn’t given us much either."
Graves’ lack of production is stark. In 20 games this season, he has yet to record a point. This follows a disappointing 70-game campaign last year where he managed only three goals and 14 points. This pales in comparison to his career highlights, where he exceeded 25 points three times and scored over eight goals twice – achievements that remain elusive in Pittsburgh.
Despite this, the Penguins aren’t giving up on Graves. They have no choice but to find a way to make him a valuable asset, considering he has four years remaining on his contract. However, his spot in the lineup is far from guaranteed.
Sullivan’s focus remains winning games, regardless of a player’s salary. "I’m in the business of winning games," he emphasized. "I’m not concerned about sitting a wealthy player if it’s what’s best for the team."
Rutherford Returns to Pittsburgh
An exciting reunion is on the horizon as former Penguins General Manager Jim Rutherford returns to Pittsburgh. While not for a Penguins game, Rutherford will be present for the induction of Matt Cullen into the United States Hockey Hall of Fame.
This marks Rutherford’s first return to PPG Paints Arena since his surprising resignation almost four years ago. He remains close friends with several key figures in the Penguins organization, including Sullivan and Captain Sidney Crosby, and also speaks highly of current Penguins president of hockey operations and General Manager Kyle Dubas.
Rutherford has a habit of visiting Sullivan and Crosby during Vancouver road trips, but this will be his first return to Pittsburgh since his departure from the team.
Dubas Eyes the Future with Trades
Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas is actively exploring trade possibilities.
While Dubas is known for being in constant communication with other GMs, the Penguins aren’t actively shopping veterans like Marcus Pettersson, despite widespread speculation.
Instead, Dubas is focusing on acquiring young talent with prospects for growth. The recent acquisition of Phil Tomasino exemplifies this strategy.
Tomasino, known for his speed and potential, immediately impressed the Penguins with two goals and a leader in shots on goal in his first three games.
"We want to get faster. A lot faster," Dubas has stated repeatedly, recognizing the importance of speed in the modern NHL.
Tomasino is just the start. Dubas is actively scouring the league for young, speedy players who may not be thriving in their current situations but have the potential to blossom in Pittsburgh.
Malkin’s Adaptable Approach
The Penguins have strategically paired their top wingers, Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell, with Sidney Crosby while deploying Evgeni Malkin alongside Tomasino and Drew O’Connor.
As a veteran with a tendency for playful improvisation on the ice, one might assume Malkin possesses a diva-like persona. However, Malkin has consistently been a team player, never voicing complaints about his linemates publicly or privately.
His quiet acceptance and willingness to play with whomever is assigned to him speaks volumes about his professionalism and dedication.
Jim Rutherford is coming back to Pittsburgh this week, but not for a Penguins game. (Tijana Martin / The Canadian Press via AP)
