The new season is underway, and Pittsburgh Penguins prospects have made a strong start. GM and POHO Kyle Dubas has infused promising talent into the organization over the last two years, acquiring prospects and draft picks. Additionally, the Penguins’ improved development team has helped young players in the system begin to realize their potential paths to the NHL.
The Penguins boast solid depth in their goaltending ranks, even stirring up trade rumors involving the Edmonton Oilers. The goaltending prospects continue proving the veteran NHL players’ positions are not untouchable. Here’s the latest on Pittsburgh’s goaltenders heading into November.
Sergey Murashov, after a strong training camp, made an earlier-than-expected NHL debut, playing four games and posting a 1.90 goals-against average with a .913 save percentage before returning to the AHL’s Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (WBS) following Tristan Jarry’s return from injury. In the AHL, he excelled, notching a 6-2-0 record, one shutout, a 1.70 goals-against average, and a .934 save percentage in nine games, including a standout performance with a .969 save percentage against the Lehigh Valley Phantoms. At just 21, Murashov has demonstrated calmness and confidence, solidifying his status as a future cornerstone for the Penguins.
Blomqvist, 23, missed early season action due to a lower-body injury. Despite a tough outing against the Hershey Bears, he has otherwise performed well with three wins, one loss, and a draw over four games, posting a 2.19 goals-against average and a .920 save percentage. With stiff competition from Murashov for NHL opportunities, Blomqvist aims to cement himself as a top option, potentially sharing goaltending duties at the NHL level in a 1A/1B role.
27-year-old Larson started strong as Murashov’s backup at WBS but has seen his performance dip in November. Limited playing time due to the presence of Murashov and Blomqvist may mean a possible stint in the ECHL with the Wheeling Nailers could help Larson regain form and increase his ice time.
Gabriel Daigle, selected 84th overall in the 2025 NHL Draft, is a work in progress with the QMJHL’s Victoriaville Tigres. Despite a .895 save percentage and 557 saves in 17 games, his persistence and 6-foot-4 frame make him an intriguing prospect with potential for growth.
30-year-old Jake Smith isn’t viewed as a long-term future NHL player but has impressed with the Wheeling Nailers in the ECHL. With a 7-0-1 record, 1.72 goals-against average, and a .943 save percentage, including earning the ECHL Goaltender of the Week award in mid-November, Smith has been a bright spot and could influence goaltending depth once Taylor Gauthier returns from injury.
Kazakhstan’s Pavlenko, 23, has found some rhythm after a slow start, going 5-3-0 with a .906 save percentage and a 2.75 goals-against average in eight games. Having represented his country at the World Championship, Pavlenko has size and skill that could make him a reliable option in the AHL going forward.
Injury Update: Taylor Gauthier remains sidelined.
Fan Take: The Pittsburgh Penguins’ goaltender prospects are showing promising signs that could shape the future of the franchise’s netminding. For hockey fans, tracking these young talents offers an exciting glimpse into how the team’s depth and development might influence the NHL landscape in the coming years.
