Kyle Dubas concluded his GM Show for the season.
Some thoughts on it:
- The show’s host, Josh Getzoff, queried Dubas about where he was during Alex Ovechkin breaking the record. Surprisingly, Dubas mentioned he was attending an Oshawa/Bramptom OHL playoff match. A standout player from this game included Porter Martone, who is expected to be among the top selections for the year 2025 draft. Additionally, there was Simon Wang, a towering defenseman standing six feet five inches tall, originally hailing from China but relocated to North America with aspirations of becoming a professional ice hockey player. At the time, Wang ranked as high as thirty-first according to Bob McKenzie’s mid-season scouting He might not make it as a top-10 selection for the Penguins. However, if they acquire the Rangers' pick or consider trading some early-round selections, it could change things—though perhaps not necessarily so. Given his strong support for the OHL, Dubas certainly keeps an eye on players from that league overall. At minimum, he did watch Martone play during the playoffs when his team was defeated 4-1 and he failed to register a single point.
- Dubas discussed the situation of Rutger McGroarty who was set for an examination following a foot injury during Tuesday's game against Chicago. "While we'll hurry things along, we're also going to be very cautious and ensure that the scan doesn’t reveal any long-term issues."
- Dubas mentioned that when discussing how players approach games after being eliminated, he prefers not to speak with the team throughout the season, gesturing toward the coaching section. However, he clarified that his expectations from individual members were well-defined as the season neared its end. He also noted that this period would provide valuable insights for the organization moving forward into next year.
- Regarding Jarry’s recent performance where he secured victories in three out of his last four matches, Dubas expressed happiness about Tristan's progress. According to him, overcoming challenges and demonstrating one's potential indicates significant growth. Dubas praised Jarry’s strong showing against Chicago and stated, "The aim now is for him to use these remaining games as momentum heading into the offseason, ensuring an exceptional period leading up to the new season. This way, he will return more determined than ever, having experienced tough times; you wouldn’t want to revisit those, so let’s keep pushing forward." Additionally, Dubas highlighted that Joel Blomqvist and Sergei Murashov are likely to advance within the organization. He remarked confidently, “These players won’t be held back, and they’ll only elevate our team.” Dubas also believes that increased competition between Jarry and Alex Nedeljkovic could enhance both goaltenders' performances significantly.
- Getzoff shifted his attention to the upcoming RFA Conor Timmins and whether the Penguins planned to retain him for the following season considering his performance. "Absolutely, we plan to," replied Dubas. "His gameplay was impressive; we benefited from several transactions occurring rapidly near the trade deadline." He also noted that when the Maple Leafs acquired Brandon Carlo, it influenced their team structure and salary cap, which allowed them to bring in Timmins. Dubas mentioned wanting to provide Timmins ample opportunities to showcase his skills through significant playing time. "He seized these chances effectively, exactly what we hoped for. His performances indicate considerable promise as an integral part of our future." According to Dubas, they have only begun to uncover Timmins' full capabilities, suggesting he holds great potential to integrate well into the Penguins’ lineup going ahead.
- Regarding the focal point that is Erik Karlsson and his role in shaping the future, Dubas mentioned considering Karlsson’s perspective of departing from Ottawa to join San Jose, with both cities later entering rebuilding phases under salary-cap constraints. According to Dubas, Karlsson has the potential to revitalize the Penguins’ success but needs consistent performance, highlighting instances like his outstanding play at the 4 Nations tournament and occasionally when in Pittsburgh. He referred to certain players in Pittsburgh who improved their game after turning 35 as models for maintaining peak form. Dubas stated confidently, "If we secure the proper teammate—perhaps it could be Conor Timmins, or perhaps another player—we must resolve some defensive gaps this offseason. A key question will involve identifying the ideal partner for [Karlsson], whether it turns out to be Conor or someone else. Despite external distractions, I strongly feel he can contribute significantly towards guiding the team forward and returning us to competitive standing."
- Regarding Koivunen’s transition during his initial season in North American hockey, Dubas mentioned that one can’t predict exactly how tough it might be for an individual to manage such a shift. He highlighted that Koivunen has gained significant self-assurance and embraced the skating and agility training regimen implemented in Wilkes; these efforts have been quantifiably successful. Dubas also pointed out Koivunen’s competitive spirit, noting how he strives to dominate games near the net and unsettle opposing players as part of his growth strategy. Dubas explained further that with both Koivunen and McGroarty, this illustrates the approach being adopted—taking gradual strides rather than immediately making the roster or excelling instantly. This often involves a demanding, tedious progression, step-by-step, like laying bricks methodically. They should ascend once prepared, demonstrating readiness through performance. Dubas expressed enthusiasm about having prospects rise simultaneously in groups, emphasizing it adds value to their developmental framework. Both athletes were called up together—an inspiring milestone for the organization’s nurturing system, witnessing their impressive performances on the ice.
- Discusses the importance of having players adapt to competing until May and June in the AHL. It highlights the success of teams like Washington and Hershey, who have won the past two Calder Cups, and mentions how this experience has helped certain players transition effectively to the NHL level.
- When questioned about whether Bryan Rust was an essential part of the squad, Dubas stated, "Rust has always been integral to our group. While there are three players who've been with us for over twenty years, Rust is also someone I associate with the Pittsburgh Penguins. His values align perfectly with what we aspire to be—his integrity, readiness, and dedication are exemplary. He serves as a role model for newer players because he fought hard to reach this level after being selected in the middle rounds."
- The summary for the team's out-of-season strategy outlines extensive activities each summer. It involves two intensive weeks focused on professional scouting for both free agents and drafts, highlighting their substantial draft resources which they plan to leverage—whether through retaining selections or trading them—to acquire top-tier NHL players. The discussion then pivots to addressing weaknesses within the defensive lineup, exploring potential solutions via trade options or signing free agents. Director Kyle Dubas emphasizes that this strategic planning should not be hurried; he stresses that there isn’t a single transformative action but rather an ongoing commitment from the management to steadily work towards enhancing the team’s performance.
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The comments from a general manager might be interpreted excessively or insufficiently; it's wisest to view them merely as a glimpse at a particular point in time—nothing more, nothing less. On April 9th, Dubas expressed strong confidence that both Jarry and Karlsson will have roles to play next season. Considering just the present situation, his statement holds up logically.
In 2023, Dubas spoke confidently about his excitement for Jeff Petry and Mikael Granlund as well. trade them shortly after By default, it makes sense that anyone who is still under contract must have a favorable rating at that time. Eventually, this might change though.
Is that moment likely to arrive involving Karlsson and/or Jarry this coming summer? Only time will tell. The organization might opt for a new approach altogether, or as Dubas mentioned today, they may choose to address the issue by finding Karlsson a suitable teammate, aiming to resolve some of the recent challenges. This does not render current statements and intentions irrelevant, yet it also isn’t set in stone.
It's evident that the blue line is emerging as the primary focus for observation throughout the summer. Dubas readily acknowledged that additional efforts are needed to attract high-caliber talent. Recognizing the problem is just part of the challenge; resolving it presents an entirely different hurdle. The Penguins would greatly benefit from acquiring at least one, possibly even two, reliable top-four left-handed defenders should they genuinely aim to enhance their roster. Observing how Dubas and his team address this concern promises to be quite intriguing. Today's remarks suggest that Conor Timmins may be involved, yet the management has made it apparent that reinforcing the defensive unit remains a critical priority.
