As the Pittsburgh Penguins navigate through the challenges of the 2023-24 season, they are striving to maintain competitiveness by making necessary adjustments to their roster. In light of this ongoing effort, the Penguins have decided to place Jonathan Gruden on waivers. While Gruden’s recent performance in the NHL hasn’t been poor, the team is prioritizing results, and changes to the roster are imminent as they seek to improve their standing.
In his 11 appearances this season, Gruden has managed just one goal while logging an average of 8 minutes and 49 seconds of ice time per game. Primarily utilized on the Penguins’ fourth line, Gruden has tallied eight shots on goal. This move by the Penguins could potentially pave the way for the promotion of a highly regarded prospect.
Sam Poulin has been a standout performer for the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, amassing 24 points in 30 games. With postseason aspirations dwindling, the timing seems opportune to grant Poulin an opportunity to showcase his skills at the NHL level.
Following the acquisition of Vasily Ponomarev in the Jake Guentzel trade, Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas has hinted at Ponomarev’s potential to vie for an NHL roster spot in the near future. Ponomarev brings with him a strong AHL performance, having accumulated 29 points this season.
Considering the postseason roster locks, it’s improbable that Gruden will be claimed off waivers, as he wouldn’t be of immediate use to a playoff-bound team. The Penguins are likely to make decisions regarding Gruden’s future prior to their upcoming matchup against the Ottawa Senators.
