Sidney Crosby has pointed to a lack of structure on the ice as the primary reason for the Pittsburgh Penguins’ difficult start to the season, rather than instability in goal. Following the team’s 6-3 loss to the Winnipeg Jets, Crosby stated, “It’s not our goalies. It’s on us to play better in front of them.”
With the defeat, the Penguins’ record fell to 3-4-0, and they currently lead the NHL with 31 goals against. Tristan Jarry, typically the starting goaltender, has struggled with a .836 save percentage over three games. Meanwhile, rookie Joel Blomqvist has a record of 2-2 with a .908 save percentage in four appearances.
Alex Nedeljkovic made his season debut in the game against Winnipeg, but the team’s defensive issues persisted. Crosby noted, “We’re giving up odd-man rushes. We’re not getting clears,” and referenced a critical moment in the game, saying, “Look at the game-winner. I lose the faceoff. Then I don’t get my guy. And it ends up in the back of the net.”
The Penguins are under significant pressure to secure a playoff spot this year after failing to qualify for the postseason in the last two seasons. Crosby reaffirmed his commitment to the franchise by signing a two-year extension that will begin in the 2025-26 season.
So far, Pittsburgh has faced off against four playoff teams from the previous season in seven games and has been outscored 20-6 in those matchups. The Penguins’ three victories have come against the Detroit Red Wings, Buffalo Sabres, and Montreal Canadiens.
Crosby emphasized the need for improvement, stating, “We can’t keep giving up five or six goals a game if we want to win.”
