As the NHL regular season wrapped up, the Pittsburgh Penguins narrowly avoided finishing with the league’s sixth-worst record. Their late push, led by veteran stars and eager young players, saw them pick up wins and rise slightly in the standings. While it didn’t change their playoff fate, the effort helped maintain a competitive team culture.
Shortly after the season ended, the Penguins dismissed head coach Mike Sullivan, reportedly due to ongoing struggles and possible friction over the team’s rebuilding schedule. Despite their strong finish, Pittsburgh was left with some bad luck and a vacant coaching spot.
The misfortune continued during Monday’s NHL Draft Lottery. Division rival and frequent nemesis, the New York Islanders, jumped from the 10th spot to win the lottery, bumping the Penguins down to 10th. Then, the Utah Hockey Club won the second lottery draw and advanced from 14th to 4th, further dropping Pittsburgh to the 11th pick.
The offseason is already proving eventful. The Penguins also own a first-round pick from the New York Rangers (protected if it falls in the top 13 this year). The Rangers, like the Penguins, experienced a poor lottery outcome and now hold the 12th pick. They have until June 25 to decide whether to keep the pick or send it to Pittsburgh and gamble on doing better next season.
With a draft class that could see a significant talent drop-off from picks 6 through 11, Pittsburgh’s position stings. Their odds of selecting top Swedish prospects like Anton Frondell or Victor Eklund likely vanished when Utah moved up.
Still, the Penguins are expected to focus on centers and defensemen, as GM Kyle Dubas has emphasized strengthening those areas. Here are some possible selections at 11:
Roger McQueen (C):
A tall, skilled offensive center with elite vision and quick hands, McQueen was once projected to go in the top five but slipped due to a serious back injury. Despite limited games this season, he posted impressive numbers. If healthy, he offers first-line potential with physicality and goal-scoring prowess.
Radim Mrtka (D):
The Czech defenseman stands at 6'6" and brings a strong two-way game. Playing for the WHL’s Seattle Thunderbirds, he’s praised for his defensive positioning, skating ability, and puck control. He’s one of the top blueliners available and could be a solid addition to Pittsburgh’s defensive depth.
Jake O’Brien (C):
A right-handed center known for his hockey sense and low-zone play, O’Brien has the tools to become a reliable two-way forward. His skating style needs refinement, and he’ll require some physical development, but he brings leadership and high potential. His teammate was recently signed by Pittsburgh’s AHL affiliate, hinting at interest.
Jackson Smith (D):
Described by his WHL coach as elusive and skilled, Smith has a projectable 6’3” frame and excels at skating the puck out of danger. He ranks in the 9–13 range and could be a smart pick on the blue line.
Brady Martin (C):
Dubas may be drawn to Martin due to his roots in Sault Ste. Marie. A solid two-way center with a dependable defensive game, Martin is considered NHL-ready sooner than others. While his offensive ceiling may be modest, he could become a reliable third-line contributor.
Ivan Ryabkin (C):
A wild card in the draft, Ryabkin boasts elite offensive instincts and physical edge but raises concerns about consistency and defensive commitment. Once a top-five projection, his rankings have dropped due to uneven effort and questionable skating. Still, his offensive upside makes him an intriguing risk if the Penguins secure a second first-round pick.