The Penguins need to find ways to keep the aging core happy, but also need to start constructing a younger core. As for Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Company, finding solid, supplementary talent would fill a massive void as the Penguins should look to get competitive again next season.
However, this does not imply that they should disregard their younger talent, particularly if they have the ability to contribute or play a significant role. Here are two young players who were in contract years this past season: Philip Tomasino and Connor Dewar. There is certainly much to appreciate about these pair playing a key role in the future, even though neither produced particularly impressive figures.
They both have different strengths, and neither saw a ton of ice time last season. But they showed more than enough to at least snag a bridge contract, which will be their respective auditions for if they’re good enough to stick around long term.
Philip Tomasino showed up in 2024-25 across 50 games
While 23 points in 50 contests is nothing to celebrate, Philip Tomasino gave the Penguins a rather balanced role. He scored 11 goals and put up a 12.6 shooting percentage across 13:27 of average total ice time. Tomasino showed potential, and he let opponents know he could bring a physical game with 53 body checks, or over one hit per game.
The Penguins have a well-rounded forward on what would likely be the third line, or at least third-line minutes, when you include more physical play. That would significantly address their possible depth problems.
Connor Dewar could be the Penguins latest sledgehammer
Despite only playing in 17 games the previous season, Connor Dewar demonstrated promise by recording four goals and seven points, a 14.8 shooting %, and 49 hits in 14:27 of average total ice time. Dewar demonstrated that he can play in the middle six when necessary, although he would be more comfortable playing fourth line minutes.
Still, imagine him getting between 10 and 12 minutes per game, racking up body checks, and scoring the occasional goal. Or, better yet, he can use his offensive skill-set to set up sequences for the top-liners, and that will more than prove his value to the team.
In any case, Connor Dewar isn’t going anywhere if I’m general manager Kyle Dubas and I want to retain someone who can add some vigor. I will never allow someone like him to leave. It’s also worth emphasizing that, at even strength, Dewar had an 11.7 on-ice shooting %, further indicating he can create chances.
Dewar and Philip Tomasino are young, reliable players who won’t cost much to bring back, even though they aren’t game-changers. Additionally, I’m keeping them in Pittsburgh as possible additions to the next long-term core because they provide when needed.