Tristan Jarry Sent to AHL by Penguins After Clearing Waivers
Current Situation of Tristan Jarry
Goaltender Tristan Jarry has officially been sent to the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins in the American Hockey League (AHL) after being placed on waivers by the Pittsburgh Penguins. This marks a significant move as Jarry is currently in the second year of his contract, which extends through the 2027–28 season. So far this season, he has posted a.886 save percentage over 22 games, reflecting inconsistencies in his performance.
Jarry’s Contract and Performance
Jarry, 29, signed a five-year contract worth $26.875 million on July 1, 2023, with an average annual salary of $5.375 million, setting high expectations for his performance. However, his record of 8-8-4 with a 3.31 goals-against average (GAA) and a.886 save percentage this season has prompted management to reevaluate his role with the team.
General Manager Kyle Dubas Speaks Out
Penguins General Manager Kyle Dubas commented on Jarry’s situation, stating, “The job is about minimizing mistakes as much as possible. I understand and agree with that.” Dubas emphasized that the decision to sign Jarry was a tough one and added, “You have to be careful about writing a player off too soon; many athletes have the potential for a comeback.”
Jarry’s Recovery Process
After allowing three goals in a 4-2 loss to the Seattle Kraken, Jarry skipped the following day’s practice. He has conceded at least three goals in four of his last five games. Reflecting on this, Jarry stated, “It’s tough. In the end, a loss is still a loss, but I think the team played well.”
A Difficult Start to the Season
This season started on a challenging note for Jarry, with a 1-1-0 record, a 5.47 GAA, and a.836 save percentage over his first three games. On October 26, he was sent to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton for conditioning. There, he recorded a 4-1-0 record with a 2.16 GAA and a.926 save percentage.
The Pressure of Returning
Following his AHL stint, Jarry faced immense pressure upon his return. He lost his first three games, including one where he allowed five goals. Team captain Sidney Crosby remarked, “When you lose, this is the kind of thing that happens. Goalies face a lot of pressure.” Dubas confirmed Jarry had no health concerns and was assigned to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton strictly to regain his form. This decision indicates that Jarry’s current struggles are not injury-related but part of a recovery process.
Jarry’s Previous Season
During the previous season, Jarry posted six shutouts—his career best—but also finished with a 19-25-5 record, a 2.91 GAA, and a.903 save percentage. These numbers fell short of expectations for a top-tier goaltender.
Coach Mike Sullivan on Jarry
Coach Mike Sullivan addressed Jarry’s challenges, saying, “The mood is what you’d expect; this is the tough part of the job.” He stressed the importance of performance while acknowledging that hockey is a team sport and not reliant on one individual.
Alex Nedeljkovic’s Role
Alex Nedeljkovic, who has shared starting duties with Jarry, has a 7-7-4 record, a 3.40 GAA, and a.886 save percentage this season. Nedeljkovic himself has faced difficulties and is striving to rediscover his form. Reflecting on Jarry’s situation, Nedeljkovic stated, “I don’t want to make this about me, but this feels almost identical to what I went through in Detroit.” His remarks highlight the shared pressures faced by NHL goalies.
Joel Blomqvist Makes NHL Debut
With Jarry and Nedeljkovic sidelined, 23-year-old Joel Blomqvist made his NHL debut. Over eight games, he recorded a 3-5-0 record with a 3.60 GAA and a.904 save percentage. Blomqvist was called up from the AHL to support Nedeljkovic. Kyle Dubas remarked, “In the long term, the best thing for the team and for Tristan is to allow Joel to get his chance here.” This move signals a focus on developing young talent while maintaining confidence in the team’s future.
Jarry’s Legacy with the Penguins
Jarry became the Penguins’ primary goaltender after Matt Murray was traded to the Ottawa Senators on October 7, 2020. This was a pivotal moment in Jarry’s career and a significant challenge for the organization.
Career Achievements
Selected by Pittsburgh in the second round of the 2013 NHL Draft, Jarry has a career record of 144-93-29 with a 2.75 GAA and a.910 save percentage over 279 regular-season games. These numbers showcase his potential and skill as a goaltender. Despite their previous 16 consecutive playoff appearances, the Penguins have missed the postseason for two straight seasons. They are currently four points behind the Columbus Blue Jackets for the second Eastern Conference Wild Card spot, increasing the pressure on the team and its goaltenders.
A Road to Redemption
Dubas assessed Jarry’s struggles, stating, “Objectively, he came here and had an incredible offseason.” However, he acknowledged the importance of doing what is best for both the team and Jarry in the long run. As Tristan Jarry navigates this challenging phase, his AHL assignment could be an opportunity to rebuild his confidence and refine his skills. Fans and management alike are hopeful for a strong comeback, anticipating the day Jarry returns to top form. Stay tuned as this story unfolds.
