Which newcomer brought the most impact to the Pittsburgh Penguins this season under Kyle Dubas’ management? It’s a subject up for debate.
With his consistent performance in the net during the crucial final three weeks of the season, goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic presents a compelling argument.
Meanwhile, winger Reilly Smith and defenseman Ryan Graves, who struggled and were demoted within the Penguins’ lineup midway through the season, don’t quite measure up.
Erik Karlsson, although displaying flashes of brilliance, also showcased periodic defensive weaknesses throughout the year.
However, the title of the most influential player in his inaugural (full) season with the Penguins could very well belong to forward Lars Eller.
Dubas praised Eller, stating, “Lars Eller, I think everything we signed and asked for, he brought.” He emphasized Eller’s consistent performance in less glamorous roles like defensive zone starts and penalty kills, providing reliable support to stars like Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin while also contributing offensively.
Eller, who played in all 82 games, averaged 15 minutes and 58 seconds of ice time per game, predominantly serving as the team’s third-line center. He contributed significantly on special teams, averaging 2 minutes and 11 seconds on the penalty kill and 1 minute and 28 seconds on the power play. Over the course of the season, he scored 15 goals and provided 16 assists.
Despite facing challenges like frequent line changes, Eller adapted well and even mentored younger players like Drew O’Connor and Valtteri Puustinen.
Looking ahead, while changes are expected within the Penguins’ roster, Eller remains a valuable asset, slated to fulfill the final year of his contract. Despite the disappointment of missing the playoffs, Eller is eager to contribute to the team’s resurgence in the upcoming season, expressing his commitment to the Penguins and his optimism for their future success.
