Pittsburgh Penguins Forward Lineup Projections for 2026-27 Season

As August approaches, the excitement for NHL training camps intensifies, signaling a crucial time for the Pittsburgh Penguins as they prepare for the 2026-27 season. General Manager Kyle Dubas has kept the team’s roster dynamic, adding several players through trades and free agency. However, this influx has created a bit of a logjam within the forward unit and on the blue line, presenting intriguing options for lineup configurations.

The Penguins’ forward group is particularly captivating, featuring a mix of promising prospects vying for NHL roster spots alongside seasoned players like David Gustafsson and a potentially healthy Filip Hallander. With 14 established NHL players to compete against, the competition for forward positions will be fierce.

If the team decides to maintain its current roster heading into training camp, the projected forward lineup could look like this: Rickard Rakell on the first line with Sidney Crosby and Bryan Rust, followed by Egor Chinakhov, Tommy Novak, and Evgeni Malkin on the second line. Andrei Kuzmenko, Ben Kindel, and Nicholas Robertson would form the third line, while Connor Dewar, Blake Lizotte, and Elmer Soderblom round out the fourth line. Extras include Hendrix Lapierre and Justin Brazeau.

Returning Rakell to the first line alongside Crosby and Rust is a strategic move, as this trio has proven effective over the years, with both Rust and Rakell consistently nearing the 30-goal mark. However, after impressing as a center last season, Rakell could also pivot to the second line if needed, provided he improves his faceoff skills. His versatility enhances the Penguins’ options and could even increase his trade value if the team opts to explore that route.

Among the younger players, Kindel and Robertson stand out as potential breakout candidates. Kindel, at just 18, scored 17 goals and 35 points last season while primarily serving as a third-line center. With more consistent linemates, he could see even greater success this season. Robertson, who netted 16 goals and 32 points in 78 games, also has the opportunity to thrive, especially if he can develop chemistry with Kindel.

Kuzmenko, who had a stellar rookie season with the Vancouver Canucks, is another player to watch closely. If he can regain his form and stay healthy, he could be a significant contributor to the Penguins’ offense. Soderblom, while not expected to reach 20 goals, showed promise last season with his forechecking and skill. Players like Dewar and Lizotte could further boost his production.

Chinakhov is arguably the most intriguing player to follow this season. After a slow start with the Columbus Blue Jackets, he flourished in Pittsburgh, finishing with 18 goals and 36 points in 43 games. If he can replicate that success, the Penguins could have a dynamic scorer on their hands. However, his health will be vital for him to reach his potential, as injuries have plagued his career.

While the Penguins’ roster appears set, there’s still a chance for players like Gustafsson and Hallander to make their presence felt. Last season, Kindel surprised many by earning a spot on the NHL roster after an impressive training camp, demonstrating that opportunities can arise unexpectedly.

Prospects like Rutger McGroarty, Avery Hayes, Tristan Broz, and Ville Koivunen will need to outperform established players to secure a spot on the roster. With only one potential NHL position available, the competition will be intense, but it remains an achievable goal for those willing to fight for it.

As training camp nears, the Penguins’ forward battle promises to be one of the most competitive in recent memory, as players vie for their chance to shine on the NHL stage.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.