PENSBURGH: Penguins confirm shocking decision after sending Tristan Jarry home
The Pittsburgh Penguins are facing a major goaltending issue, with Tristan Jarry’s early-season struggles clouding their start. Jarry, under contract through 2027-28 at $5.25 million per year, has yet to live up to expectations, posting a 5.47 GAA and .836 save percentage. His inconsistency has created a dilemma for the Penguins, as moving his sizable contract via trade seems nearly impossible right now.
Head coach Mike Sullivan has continued to support Jarry, starting him on opening night and giving him opportunities to improve. However, following a rough outing against the Buffalo Sabres where he allowed three goals on five shots and was pulled before the first period ended, Jarry’s status as the starting goalie is now uncertain. Sullivan’s patience seems to be fading, as shown by Jarry’s demotion to third string against the Winnipeg Jets.
Elliotte Friedman suggested that the Penguins might keep three goalies on the roster until Jarry finds his form, but waivers are also a consideration. On the 32 Thoughts podcast, Friedman remarked, “I wondered if they were going to put him on waivers on the weekend, they obviously didn’t, they’ve looked to see what the market is, it’s tough right now because he has struggled.”
Are the Penguins Thinking It’s Time to Move on from Jarry?
Jarry lost his starting job to Alex Nedeljkovic last season, and Nedeljkovic was spectacular as the Penguins nearly made the playoffs. Things are not going well for Jarry, and the Penguins cannot afford to commit this much time, energy, and money in a player whose play has been inconsistent and whose confidence has been shaken. According to Josh Yohe of The Athletic, Jarry’s performances have been “unprofessional,” and there is now an open competition for the starting job among Jarry, Nedeljkovic, and prospect Joel Blomqvist.
Given Jarry’s large salary, the Penguins are in a difficult situation. While some have suggested demoting him to the minors or buying him out next summer, the team will need to show significant improvement before justifying keeping him as their No. 1 goalkeeper. If Jarry fails to achieve consistency soon, he may face a buyout or demotion.