"Mental approach & psychological state are concerns" - NHL insider speaks out on Tristan Jarry's Penguins future

By Vignesh Krishnan

Modified Nov 12, 2024 13:59 GMT

The Pittsburgh Penguins find themselves at a crossroads with goaltender Tristan Jarry as the franchise contemplates his future amid ongoing struggles. According to Josh Yohe of The Athletic, Jarry’s mental approach and psychological state are primary concerns for the Penguins as they deliberate his role with the team moving forward.

The Penguins are reportedly ready to be patient with the 29-year-old netminder but fear his mental skillset could hamper his growth.

“Plenty of people in the organization want to see him receive an extended amount of games in the NHL, simply to see what is there,” Yohe said.

Jarry's season started on a rocky note, posting a troubling 5.47 goals-against average and a .836 save percentage in his first three games. While starting against the Buffalo Sabres in October, Jarry allowed three goals on five shots in the first period alone. He was later sent to their AHL affiliate in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton on a conditioning loan on Oct. 26.

Jarry appeared to rediscover his footing in the AHL, where he posted a 4-1 record with a 2.16 goals-against average and a .926 save percentage. The netminder's tenure in the minors provided a glimpse of his talent, but questions linger about whether he can bring that confidence back to the NHL.

“My sense is the Penguins are very eager to find out if Jarry can help them this season or not. There has never been a question about his physical talent, but rather, his mental approach and psychological state are the concerns," said Yohe.

The Penguins can turn their attention to Jarry soon after their goalie tandem of Alex Nedeljkovic and Joel Blomqvist conceded seven goals in their lopsided loss against the Dallas Stars on Monday.

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Tristan Jarry hoping to translate AHL success into NHL with Penguins return

Tristan Jarry, who has returned from AHL, is trying to reclaim his role as the Penguins' starting goaltender. The Canadian native spoke to media about his AHL experience and his belief that GM Kyle Dubas made the right decision.

"We just thought it would be a good idea just for me to be able to go down there and play some games consecutively, just with having three goalies here. I think it really helped me," Jarry said.

"Obviously, it's never easy when you have to kind of pick your family up and move to a different place and play some games. I think that it's all part of the challenge. It's what you sign up for as a hockey player," he added.

The Penguins (6-9-2) are seventh in the Metropolitan Division and could bring Jarry back into the mix when they face off against the Detroit Red Wings at home on Wednesday at 7:30 PM ET.