It appears as though the Pittsburgh Penguins organization understands where things went wrong this season.
A rash of injuries to the club’s top defencemen took its toll on the Penguins, ultimately derailing their shot at a deep playoff run.
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Don’t expect the Penguins to cut ties with general manager Jim Rutherford or head coach Mike Johnston. You can also bank on both Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin to remain in black and gold for the 2015-16 season.
The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review infamously cast blame for the Penguins’ late-season and early playoff struggles upon its top two offensive stars, Crosby and Malkin, following Game 1 of their best-of-seven series vs. the New York Rangers.
Crosby responded with a two-goal effort in Game 2. Malkin was held pointless in the series, but the 28-year-old centre was playing through some ailments.
Penguins CEO David Morehouse will exercise some patience following a swift five-game exit from the playoffs. It’s a good sign for the club and its fans, as things were never really quite as bad as they may have seemed.
Changes will most certainly be made, but it appears more likely that the Penguins will pursue some depth forwards and focus on shoring up the blue line.
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