What's Happening?
Joel Blomqvist, a goaltender for the Pittsburgh Penguins, is set to start in the preseason opener against the Montreal Canadiens. Blomqvist will share the game with Sergei Murashov. Last season, Blomqvist recorded a 4-9-1 record with a 3.81 goals-against average and an .885 save percentage over 15 regular-season appearances. Despite his participation in the preseason, Blomqvist is expected to begin the 2025-26 season in the minors, as he is currently positioned behind Tristan Jarry and Arturs Silovs on the Penguins' depth chart.
Why It's Important?
Blomqvist's performance in the preseason could influence his future role within the Penguins organization. As he competes for a more prominent position, his ability to demonstrate skill and consistency is crucial. The preseason games offer him a platform to showcase his potential to the coaching staff and management. For the Penguins, evaluating Blomqvist's capabilities is essential for strategic planning, especially considering the team's depth in goaltending. His development could impact the team's roster decisions and overall performance in the upcoming season.
What's Next?
Following the preseason, Blomqvist's performance will be assessed to determine his placement within the Penguins' system. If he impresses during these games, he may earn more opportunities to play at the NHL level. The Penguins will continue to monitor his progress and make decisions regarding his role based on his exhibition performance. Additionally, the team will strategize on how to best utilize their goaltending assets as they prepare for the regular season.
