There are some exciting developments down on the farm for the Pittsburgh Penguins.
With more talent in the system than they’ve had in recent memory, the Penguins have several prospects of interest to keep an eye on. We close out our February Penguins Prospects Update with goaltending.
Joel Blomqvist
Since Blomqvist’s recall from Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (WBS) on Jan. 16 – after Tristan Jarry was waived and re-assigned to WBS – it hasn’t exactly been smooth-sailing for the 23-year-old rookie.
His first stint in the NHL earlier this season – aside from one rotten performance by the entire team against the Dallas Stars – was impressive. Taking out the Dallas game, he boasted a .913 save percentage and was, clearly, the team’s best goaltender up to that point in the season.
The #LetsGoPens are in unfamiliar territory, as they actually have some legitimate talent developing at the AHL level.
But once they get the NHL call – like goaltender Joel Blomqvist – the development doesn’t stop.
Patience is required:@TheHockeyNews https://t.co/2hINtRMAT5
— Kelsey Surmacz (@kelsey_surmacz4) February 25, 2025
But since his recall on Jan. 16, Alex Nedeljkovic hit a hot streak just before the 4 Nations Face-off break, and Blomqvist hasn’t gotten too many starts as a result. In his four starts – and six appearances – since his second recall, Blomqvist has posted a measly .863 save percentage.
That’s not exactly great, but the inconsistent playing time sure hasn’t helped him. And he was very good against the Philadelphia Flyers on Thursday in relief of Nedeljkovic, surrendering just one goal on 23 shots in 32 minutes and 36 seconds of ice.
There are going to be some growing pains in Blomqvist’s development, so patience is paramount.
Filip Larsson
Larsson, 26, has been nothing short of spectacular for WBS this season.
The Swedish goaltender is 9-4-3 on the season with five shutouts – tied for first in…