Several Wilkes Barrie Penguins looking to make an impact in Pittsburgh

As the Pittsburgh Penguins transition from celebration mode to focus on the 2016-17 season, the seem to be in better shape than any other Stanley Cup Champion in the past 10 years.

The Pittsburgh Penguins will be sporting the exact same roster that won them a championship, minus journeyman Ben Lovejoy. The only roster spot that needs filled is the last defenseman, however there are several spots that are vulnerable.

The final defensive spot should be filled by Derrick Pouliot. Pouliot was drafted 8th overall in 2012, and has been one of the Penguins premiere prospects within their system. Pouliot played in 22 games this season. At the start of the season it was thought that he would play a significant role in their defense, however he was scratched most games in favor of Ian Cole, Brian Dumoulin, and late season acquisition Justin Schultz.

One spot on the roster that doesn’t remain set in stone, is the right wing on Evgeni Malkin’s line. During the season Malkin’s line was a revolving door all season which included Phil Kessel, and playoff stand out Bryan Rust. Rust, however, only had a small sample size, and did not perform well in the regular season. Someone who could potentially jump up and take that spot mid season is Daniel Sprong.

Sprong, who was drafted 46th overall in 2015, had a good showing at camp in 2015 and had a great start to the season, making the club out of camp. Sprong made quite an impression on the team playing in 18 games, before being reassigned to the Charlottetown Islanders in December. Sprong did suffer an injury and needed surgery on his shoulder, and is scheduled to return in December.

If Sprong were to make the in December, it would need to be in a different role than last season. Sprong was only used in a checking role and played very few minutes. Then coach Mike Johnston, did not use his skill and speed correctly, instead placed him on the checking line.

The Real battle this year in camp will be between Marc Andre Fleury, and playoff hero, Matt Murray. Murray, of course, took over the net in the playoffs, due to Fleury being out with a concussion. When Murry took over the net, it was his to loose. Murray outplayed several all-star goalies, including Braden Holtby, Henrik Lundqvist.

Fleury however was one of the most dominate goalies in the regular season. Fleury tied for 5th in wins and 6th in save percentage this season, while still missing significant time. Fleury has been very consistant through the past few regular seasons, however he has struggled with consistency in the playoffs.  Fleury is also older and holds a heavier contract, and with a looming expansion draft, this makes Fleury more likely to be traded midseason.

With the Penguins almost icing the team that won them a championship three months ago, their isn’t much room for prospects to make the jump, however there are interesting battles between players who will earn roster spots and who will be scratched. Regardless the Penguins look ready to gear up for a repeat.