The past off season has seen a few changes within the penguins organization after what GM Matheson was referring to as a "Solid 60ish games in the regular season, a decent first round playoff series, but a disappointing finish," - he continued to say he saw a few guys in the dressing room not holding up their end of the bargain. As the press conference continued GM Matheson wanted to thank the outgoing players and wish them the best with their new teams and was glad to see some of the players get signed in Free Agency. He was pleased to be able to pick up a top 10 pick in the entry draft this year in order to continue to build on the organizational depth. "We are very happy with the few additions we have made via trade for our organizaitonal depth, adding young defenders was a must for the penguins, to develope these young players is a vital part of the league.
Now to discuss this upcoming season, with solid performances from young developing players such as dauphin, pu, shosh, oulette there was a need to clear a few roster spots in order to give these young players sufficient minutes in the Pros as the graduated. There were a few players that were moved out like Horny, Pearson, and Richardson, we also lost Martin and Johns to FA, these holes will be filled by the youth in our system. This past season saw extensions given to a plethera of players from the Penguins organization with the hopes keeping this group together will translate into further success. Our goal tending duo had strong seasons and we hope keeping them together will ensure there is a battle between the pipes having these guys encourage each other along the way, these guys also see whats behind them in the minor league system with Jarry chomping at the bit to get his chance, we have had meetings with him and believe it best to have one more season of development in the minors to ensure long term success within our organization.
When asked about the RFA process and the topic of Offer Sheets GM Matheson frustratingly snuffed, stated it is what it is, its part of the sport, and added no further comment.
He finished off with a thanks to the league and league management for a job well done, and was looking forward to seeing how the team would perform this upcoming season.