The Pittsburgh Penguins have several positions needing drastic change, hence why they are 25th in the NHL by standings points. That allows players like Valtteri Puustinen to potentially carve out a spot for himself heading into next season.
Puustinen has impressed in his first extended opportunity with the Penguins, moving into a prominent role on the second line and spending time on the top power play unit. His offensive talent has been on display as he has become a more consistent part of the Penguins attack.
The 24-year-old has proven he can play at a high level but still lacks the finishing ability to solidify a role atop the Penguins lineup. He has 13 points (2G-11A) in 33 games this season but a dramatically low shooting percentage of 3.2 percent.
However, Puustinen's possession numbers, 53% of shot attempts, and 58% of expected goals at 5v5 are among the best on the team. It's hard to deny the spark he has provided at points throughout this season.
With the Penguins stocked up on expensive top-six forwards like Reilly Smith, Rickard Rakell, Bryan Rust, and now Michael Bunting, it's hard to envision the Penguins looking to Puustinen as their top option to begin next season on a top forward line.
The rookie winger enters this offseason in need of a new contract (as a restricted free agent). It's unlikely Puustinen will command much of a raise, which may give him an advantage.
With Penguins President/GM Kyle Dubas alluding that more changes are on the horizon, Puustinen's relatively low salary cap hit may prop up his positioning as the organization undergoes its' summer facelift.
Puustinen should be a serious candidate to make next season's roster out of camp, but his role, whether it be a prominent top-six scorer, bottom-six depth, or injury call-up, is uncertain.
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