Matt Grzelcyk Still Without Contract for Next Season: Could a Return to Pittsburgh Be in the Cards?
Photo credit: The Hockey News
Former Penguin Matt Grzelcyk has still not been signed for the upcoming season, which is leading many to wonder whether he could return to play in Pittsburgh.
The Pittsburgh Penguins signed defenseman Matt Grzelcyk to a one-year, $2.5 million deal last offseason and got solid value.
The veteran was a natural fit with the Metropolitan Division club, recording the highest-scoring campaign of his nine-year NHL career.
The Massachusetts native from Charlestown scored one goal, a career-high 39 assists, and 40 points in 82 games. He also set a career high with 15 power-play points, becoming a consistent point producer.
Despite that success, Matt Grzelcyk is an unrestricted free agent this summer. The question is if and when Pittsburgh should re-sign him.
With over $13 million of available cap space, the Penguins could sign him easily, and his puck-moving ability would make him a great fit for the left side and power play.
"Grzelcyk could generate interest because he is also a proven NHL defenseman with plenty of experience. This includes the playoffs, as he played in 66 post-season games during his eight-year stint with the Boston Bruins."
- Michael DeRosa
- Michael DeRosa
The Penguins are Pretty Full on Defense at the Moment, Complicating a Potential Signing
Yet roster building does complicate it. The Penguins already have several left-shot defensemen signed, such as free-agent additions Parker Wotherspoon and Alexander Alexeyev, Owen Pickering, Ryan Graves, and Ryan Shea.
The right side is also well-stocked with four NHL-ready options, which presents a conundrum.
Short of a reunion, Grzelcyk's consistent 2024-25 season would at least stir interest around the league. Worst-case scenario, he'll receive a professional tryout (PTO), most likely with another full-time NHL role.
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