Kyle Dubas likely to lose a key piece in Pittsburgh due to power trip
Photo credit: Christopher Katsarov
In his second year at the helm for the Pittsburgh Penguins, General Manager Kyle Dubas faces a pivotal off-season, one marred by increasing tensions and potentially crucial decisions that could reshape the franchise's future. Dubas, who took over following his tenure with the Toronto Maple Leafs, finds himself at a crossroads, especially with his current coaching staff.
The Penguins, a team with a storied history of success, including a remarkable streak of 16 consecutive playoff appearances from the 2006-07 to 2021-22 seasons, have found themselves outside the postseason for two straight years.
This drought comes despite the presence of hockey luminaries Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang, who are all locked in for the foreseeable future.
Dubas's approach to revamping the team was evident when he orchestrated the significant trade for Erik Karlsson, signaling a bold new direction. However, his most controversial move might revolve around his relationship with Head Coach Mike Sullivan.
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Sullivan, who has been at the team's helm since the 2015-16 season, boasts a commendable record and two Stanley Cup victories. Yet, his tenure is now clouded by internal discord regarding staffing decisions.
Reports from Frank Seravalli suggest that Sullivan opposed changes within his coaching staff, a stance that could have sown seeds of discord with management. The recent dismissal of assistant coach Todd Reirden might be an indicator of a broader shift in strategy and perhaps even Sullivan's precarious position within the organization.
This situation places the Penguins at a critical juncture. Sullivan, who steered the team to back-to-back Stanley Cups in 2016 and 2017, now finds his future uncertain. With the Penguins' recent playoff misses and the shifting dynamics within the coaching staff, questions loom large about the direction the team is heading.
The outcome of these tensions could also influence star player Sidney Crosby's commitment to the team amid these turbulent times.
As the Penguins navigate this off-season, the decisions made by Dubas and the front office will be under intense scrutiny.
The potential departure of a coach like Sullivan could signal a new era for Pittsburgh or, conversely, herald a period of instability. Either way, the Penguins' actions this off-season will be pivotal in determining their trajectory for years to come.
Previously on MapleLeafsLatest
| POLL |
3 MAI | 171 ANSWERS Kyle Dubas likely to lose a key piece in Pittsburgh due to power trip Should the Penguins hire a new coach? |
| Yes, they need changes from top to bottom | 121 | 70.8 % |
| No, Sullivan is a proven winner | 50 | 29.2 % |
| LIST OF POLLS |
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