After a stellar 2025-26 season that saw the Pittsburgh Penguins return to the playoffs, the roster is riding high on confidence. Much of that success came from players exceeding expectations and even enjoying career years. When an entire team overachieves like that, there aren't many players needing a reset. However, a few key individuals could still use a bounce-back campaign in 2026-27. Let's break down four candidates and their chances of turning things around.
Samuel Girard
Girard's short tenure in Pittsburgh has been a mixed bag, leaning toward disappointment. Acquired from Colorado in the trade for Brett Kulak, he struggled to find his footing. Playing alongside Kris Letang, he had some rough patches in both the regular season and playoffs. At times, he looked like he was overthinking on the ice, spinning with the puck instead of making decisive plays. But there were flashes of brilliance—moments where he shined both with and without Letang. It wasn't all bad.
History shows that defensemen often need time to adjust to a new system in Pittsburgh. Sergei Gonchar had rocky moments early on before becoming a Stanley Cup cornerstone. Paul Martin was labeled a liability after one season, then played like the rock-solid defender he was in New Jersey. Even Erik Karlsson was written off before bouncing back this season. Could Girard be the next in that line? With a fresh start and a full training camp, it's very possible.
Other Bounce-Back Candidates
Beyond Girard, the Penguins have a few more players who could use a stronger 2026-27. Look for a forward who struggled with consistency after a hot start, or a defenseman whose advanced stats dipped despite decent box scores. The team's depth will be key, and a bounce-back from even one of these players could solidify their playoff push.
The Bigger Picture
For a team that exceeded expectations, the margin for improvement is slim. But in a competitive Metropolitan Division, every point matters. If these candidates can hit their stride, the Penguins won't just be contenders—they'll be a nightmare matchup. Keep an eye on training camp for early signs of who's ready to rise.