The 2026-27 NHL season promises to be an intriguing one for the Pittsburgh Penguins, with a mix of familiar faces and new talent looking to make their mark. Here's a breakdown of five players who will undoubtedly spark curiosity among fans and analysts alike.
Nick Robertson
Robertson, a 25-year-old forward, has been on a scoring tear in recent seasons, amassing 45 goals in the last three years. His potential to become a core player is evident, but his journey to this point has been a bit of a rollercoaster. In Toronto, he struggled to find consistent playing time, averaging just 11-12 minutes per game over three seasons. However, the Penguins see him as a player who could benefit from a change of scenery, much like Arturs Silovs and Tommy Novak, who were positive surprises last season. The question remains: can Robertson replicate Chinakhov's success in Pittsburgh, where he flourished after a similar journey? This could be a pivotal moment in his career, and the Penguins' strategy of targeting young players in need of a fresh start could pay dividends.
Declan Carlile
Carlile, an undrafted free agent, is another young player seeking opportunity. He spent three seasons in the AHL with Tampa before getting a taste of the NHL last season. At 26 years old, he possesses the size (6'3