Goaltending Decisions Loom for Penguins as Trade Deadline Approaches

The Penguins have a plethora of goaltenders at both the NHL and AHL levels but just three as serious prospects of high upside. The biggest problem is Tristan Jarry, who had struggled to the extent of a demotion to the AHL this season.

During the offseason, Pittsburgh was discussed to provide a tryout to the backup position with Joel Blomqvist. He's struggled in his 15 NHL games this year with a .885 save percentage, proof that he needs more time to develop in the AHL.

The organization ultimately determined that he wasn't up for an entire NHL stint and brought back Alex Nedeljkovic on a re-entry level contract.

There were some recent rumors that Penguins head coach Mike Sullivan has been giving more opportunities to Nedeljkovic just to get him out there so he can possibly be traded.

That might make sense, but the Penguins should think about the larger picture and not rush getting Sergei Murashov into this position he isn't ready for, especially given the reality of Jarry not being a sound NHL option.

If the Penguins do make a goaltender trade at the deadline, the rational player to move out would be Jarry. He was waived for something, and he has not played too well in the AHL, still allowing goals on first shots.

While Jarry's been in the minors, Nedeljkovic has averaged save percentages higher than .900. Jarry, meanwhile, has an abysmal .886 save percentage in his 22 NHL games this season.

Yesterday, the Penguins recalled Jarry, despite his horrible stats, and sent down Blomqvist to the AHL, a move that will keep Blomqvist developing rather than being pushed into a full-time NHL role prematurely.

If the team does trade Nedeljkovic, it could put Blomqvist in a role he is not prepared for, and potentially rush Murashov too.

Pittsburgh must make its future a priority. Holding on to Nedeljkovic ensures the young netminders get the time they require to fully develop, which means the one that absolutely must get traded this week is Jarry.