NHL insider drops bold take on what the Penguins have earned this year
Photo credit: Edit from Newsweek
NHL insider Dave Molinari believes that because the Penguins have played so well to start the season, they deserve a chance to prove they can be a playoff team.
The question now for the Pittsburgh Penguins is whether general manager Kyle Dubas adjusts his long-term vision if the team stays in the playoff picture by the time the NHL trade deadline arrives.
Would Dubas not hesitate to move veteran players for future assets if Pittsburgh is still within striking distance, or would he decide to go on more of the buyer route?
What Kyle Dubas' goal is
Since dealing away Jake Guentzel in March 2024, Dubas has made it clear that his aim is to build a consistent Stanley Cup contender, not chase short-term playoff appearances. His moves since then have reflected that patient, big-picture mindset.
That philosophy will be put to the test if the Penguins keep up this pace, however. With Thanksgiving looming, the Penguins find themselves in the top ten of the NHL, a spot few predicted them to be in at the beginning of the year.
Insider Matt Vensel believes Dubas won't rush into a buyer's mindset and instead wants to stay disciplined with a focus on more sustainable growth.
Yet the allure of a playoff run, and the influence of Sidney Crosby's window and team ownership, could complicate that stance.
"I do buy that Dubas wants to stay patient and build something sustainable for the long haul. But the thrill of the chase and external pressures, such as Crosby's status and the wishes of whomever owns the team then, may push Dubas to reconsider."
- Matt Vesel
- Matt Vesel
Why Kyle Dubas should give the Penguins a chance at the playoffs
Veteran insider Dave Molinari feels otherwise. He argues that so far this season, it is a Penguins team that has overperformed and should be given an opportunity to prove whether it's really capable of contending for a playoff position.
"The 2025-26 Penguins have been better than expected so far. They deserve a chance to prove whether they can be a playoff team."
- Dave Molinari
- Dave Molinari
Ultimately, there is a lot of hockey left to be played before the trade deadline. How Dubas stays the course or makes adjustments on the fly depends on how the Penguins fare over the next few crucial months.
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