As the Pittsburgh Penguins approach the 2026 training camp, the defensive configuration remains a significant point of concern. Much like last year, the team enters the season with major questions regarding the blueline. Erik Karlsson remains the anchor of the defense, expected to handle heavy minutes, but his partner on the left side is currently undetermined.
Last season, Parker Wotherspoon managed to secure that spot, providing stability where many expected weakness. This year, the roster has changed with several departures and new additions, yet the uncertainty persists. Metrics from last year placed the Penguins in the bottom ten of the league defensively, and team management faces the challenge of identifying a partner for Karlsson who can match his pace while providing structural support.
Several candidates have emerged for the role. Trevor van Riemsdyk is a possibility, though his status as a right-handed shooter creates a situational hurdle when paired with Karlsson. Declan Carlile has been discussed as a replacement for previous depth options, and his position as a left-handed shot makes him a natural candidate for the spot. Sam Girard also represents an option as the top left-handed defenseman on the current roster, though concerns exist regarding the defensive balance of such a pairing.
Beyond these specific players, the team may look to internal options like Owen Pickering or other depth defenders. The coaching staff will likely experiment during camp to see which configuration allows the team to operate efficiently. Given the defensive struggles of the previous season, the selection of Karlsson’s partner is not just a roster move but a critical decision for the team’s overall performance this year.
The upcoming weeks will reveal the direction the coaching staff intends to take. Fans should monitor the first pairings on the ice during camp to see if any early chemistry develops. Establishing a consistent presence alongside Karlsson is vital for the team to move away from the bottom-tier metrics that defined their performance last year.