Is Alex Galchenyuk not fitting in with Pittsburgh?
Dan Kingerski of Pittsburgh Hockey Now: It seems to be happening yet again. Alex Galchenyuk tallied just three points so far in his ten games since coming back from injury. He was a non-factor in New Jersey on Friday night as well. Mike Sullivan said it as much here.
“I think it’s more than (shooting). He’s got to be more focused on playing the game the right way,” Penguins head coach Mike Sullivan said.
This is not the first or last time anyone has heard this on Galchenyuk. While playing right-wing is an adjustment, Galchenyuk is not doing the little things well at all — especially when it pertains to puck pursuit. His scoring chance percentage is under 50%. Also, Alex Galchenyuk sees more goals scored against when he is on the ice than for.
Another criticism has been his shot. Where is it? One thing is clear. If Galchenyuk finds his shot soon, all hope is not lost. If he does not, Galchenyuk traded to a new destination will gain steam fast.
Some more on Tristan Jarry, Nick Bjugstad and even Galchenyuk
Matt Vensel of the Pittsburgh Post Gazette (chat): Several things keep coming up with the Penguins. While most hope that Matt Murray finds his form quickly, others suggest different things. One of the items on Pittsburgh Penguin fan wishlists is help for the third line. Most do not believe that Nick Bjugstad is the answer there and some truth lies in that. Possession has been good but goals have not. Pittsburgh needs goals especially earlier in games.
Talk is that Tristan Jarry could still be on the move for scoring help. That would mean another run for Casey DeSmith (who has been excellent in Wilkes-Barre). Moving Jarry would have to come closer to the trade deadline when prices are a little higher. Jarry’s play suggests value to be had in making a move. Now, it boils down to timing.
Then, there is Galchenyuk who could be an answer to those first-period scoring woes. Bjugstad is in the same boat in the sense that they cannot light the lamp enough.