Pittsburgh Penguins’ Bold Move: Tristan Jarry Placed on Waivers Amid Team Turmoil
Cup and has not been able to secure a playoff spot in one of the toughest conferences in the NHL’s Eastern Conference this year but has been through some troubles this year. However, periods of excellence were offset by three losses on the trot and appallingly bad showing with the bat more notoriously, a pathetic show behind the wickets. To get to the bottom of what has become a longstanding issue for this team in terms of their goaltenders, General Manager Kyle Dubas made what could only be described as a bold and unconventional move on Wednesday by releasing two time All-Star Tristan Jarry.
Jarry, the 25-year-old, who is only in his second season with the Devils and in the midst of a potent five-year, $5.375 million per annum deal has been far from impressive. Whereas his current numbers are 8-7-4, a 3.32 GAA and .886 SV%—way below his old All-Star level. Raising 173 goals this season, the Penguins had the highest number of goals conceded, making the need for the change crucial.
A Calculated Risk
It remains highly unlikely that another team will pick up Jarry via the waivers because of the huge contract that he signed, as well as poor run of form in the last few weeks. If he clears waivers, Jarry will be assigned to the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, AHL team, the best place for him to work on his issues without much pressure from the NHL.
Dubas also revealed dodging that AHL standout, Joel Blomqvist will be promoted to the NHL roster for the team’s road trip. Blomqvist has done well for the team in Wilkes-Barre and deserves a shot at the NHL. “That’s why,” Dubas said, “We believe Joel has earned this chance.” “We have faith with his progress in the past year and a half in both the AHL and short times in the NHL.”
A Team in Transition
Jarry’s ordeal is not the only one of its kind and has happened to many students across the country. His tandem partner Alex Nedeljkovic has very significant yielded, which exacerbates the Penguins’ defensive issues. The team has more often than not been forced to chase games after conceding early goals that psychologically plays a big part in the team’s down.
Dubas decision to waive Jarry hint at a new direction where the organization takes accountability and the desire for a new face in the crease. Though the transfer may not be good news for Jarry it brings a positive change which may make him regain his form. For the Penguins it has acted as a symbol of their intention to get back on track and make a change before it gets worse.
What Lies Ahead
It is a strategic shift and thus has its dangers but at the same time a number of benefits. If Jarry builds his confidence back up in the AHL, he might come back even better and with a vengeance. In the case of Blomqvist the chance to be promoted to the NHL is the kind of challenge that will determine whether or not he is ready to face the pressure that is bound to come with playing in the top league.
As the Penguins struggle through another difficult year, Dubas’ move is showing a promising brass showing willingness to make sacrifices for the betterment of the team. Only time will tell if this gamble pays off, but one thing is clear: The Penguins are desperate for changes, and their focused goal of achieving them means that even the silliest ideas are considered.
