As the players get ready for Day 2 of camp, some news and notes to know!
The Penguins are looking to repeat last year’s success of making the playoffs but know it won’t come easy. [Tribune Review]
This power ranking isn’t buying in, Pens check in at No. 23. [Sportsnet]
It’s going to be an uphill climb for youngsters like Rutger McGroarty, Avery Hayes and Owen Pickering to crack the opening night NHL roster but all are going to put their best foot forward in hopes of earning a spot. [The Athletic $]
More notes and observations from yesterday’s first day of camp. [Post-Gazette]
Our own thoughts on the day. [PensBurgh]
All the best wishes and vibes for Dave Molinari, who had a positive piece of news in a recent update in his ongoing battle with cancer. He’s been brave to document it all and put his story out there, we’re all hoping he gets to write a very happy ending. [Substack]
Sidney Crosby sent in a video about Marc-Andre Fleury that was touching for Fleury’s QMJHL Hall of Fame ceremony. [Reddit]
Crosby is about to become the longest tenured captain in NHL history in his 20th season. [Reddit]
Jason Spezza confirms 20-year old defenseman Tomas Galvas will get a look in training camp and head back to Czechia for the season if he doesn’t make the NHL roster. [X – Pens Inside Scoop]
Elmer Soderblom got bumped to the last practice group after being late yesterday. We’ll have to see how long he stays there. [X – Josh Yohe]
Up in Toronto, 2026 first overall pick Gavin McKenna started training camp on a line with William Nylander and John Tavares. Sounds decent. [NHL]
David Pastrnak didn’t have to rehab anything this summer for a first time in a while, which could lead to an even bigger season than normal. [NHL]
The family of Arizona State player Matthew Mayich, now on life support after a team workout gone wrong, is speaking out with frankly more strength and grace than I’d have in the situation. They’re asking for visibility and prayers, so that’s the least we can do. [Sportsnet]
Jets players sound a lot more sad than angry about Connor Hellebuyck deciding to leave them high and dry. [TSN]
Five long-time NHL officials have retired and won’t be back this season. Profiling them here. [Scouting the Refs]
Columbus coach Rick Bowness didn’t mince words with his displeasure about two unnamed players coming into camp in subpar shape after very directly being told what programs they were supposed to work over the summer. [TSN]
