​Depending on where you are in the United States, the weather outside often feels at odds with what you’d expect when you’re thinking about Pittsburgh Penguins hockey. For those of us in Western Pennsylvania, the past few weeks have felt more like standing on the surface of the Sun than enjoying traditional hockey weather, though spending time inside an ice rink isn’t the worst idea in the world. Now we’re approaching mid-July, the NHL offseason doldrums are ready to set in. The Stanley Cup has been awarded, the NHL Draft is done, and most free-agent activity has settled. There will still be the occasional signing or minor deal to spark some interest, but unless a blockbuster transaction materializes, news will likely slow to a trickle until training camp in September.
As we ease into this quiet period, let’s take a moment to catch up on some news you may have missed over the past few weeks while you enjoy the summer or try to stay cool. This week, there’s expected to be some significant news surrounding the 2026-27 season, with the full regular-season schedule slated to be released on Thursday and opening-night matchups revealed on Wednesday. The league will mark its first season with an 84-game slate.
Ben Kindel emerged as a standout for the Penguins last season as a rookie, and now he’s intent on building on that momentum in his second year while continuing to refine his game back home in Vancouver this summer. As Kindel puts in the work toward his development, fans can only hope that what we saw from him as an 18-year-old rookie is just the tip of the iceberg for his future potential.
Currently, the Penguins’ roster is teeming with talent, yet questions remain about how everyone will fit together. While moves are still possible and the summer remains young, one area that clearly needs attention is down the middle at center.
Before the season ended, whispers circulated that Kyle Dubas was pursuing big-game targets this offseason rather than merely adding depth in free agency. Although that marquee prize hasn’t yet been secured, there’s one name repeatedly tied to the Penguins.
Arturs Silovs was among the pending restricted free agents who re-signed with the Penguins last week. He faced some bumps along the way this past season, but a strong relief performance in the playoffs gave him momentum heading into the next campaign.
In addition to Silovs, the Penguins announced contracts with three others last week. The group includes fellow goaltender Joel Blomqvist (two-year deal), recently acquired David Gustafsson (one-year deal), and Egor Chinakhov (three-year deal), who made a significant impact after being brought in.