The Pittsburgh Penguins took a gamble when they re-signed goalie Tristan Jarry to a five-year contract worth north of $5 million annually, and through the start of the season, it didn’t seem like a smart bet.
In his first seven outings, Jarry logged only two wins for the Penguins giving up 18 goals for a .893 save percentage; both of his wins were shutouts.
Through October, it seemed as if the same goalie problems that plagued the team in 2022-23 were back for another round.
Since the calendar turned to November, however, Jarry has found much more stability, even if the wins don’t recognize some top notch performances.
Jarry has posted a 5-3 record in November, tacking on another shutout and a much better save percentage sitting at .934.
This trend of good games from Jarry has improved his standing among the league’s best goalies analytically, as well.
Jarry has improved his goals saved above expected all the way to 6.1 which is good for seventh in the NHL.
Even in his losses, especially against the New York Rangers, Jarry has been keeping the Penguins in the games, giving them chances to win.
In the Penguins win over the Toronto Maple Leafs, Jarry not only broke a three-game losing streak, but shut the door in the final period stopping all 12 shots faced from some of the best shooters in the league.
“I thought he was really solid tonight, especially down the stretch,” Sullivan said. “He made some big saves and that’s what it takes to win in this league.”
The Maple Leafs had plenty of chances all night, recording a pair of goals on 33 shots, but Jarry made sure to make the right stops at the right times.
“It’s hard when you play a team like Toronto that’s as talented as they are,” Sullivan said. “They’re going to get some chances. I though we defended hard in front of him. But, when we needed him to make a big save he was there for us.”
Jarry’s performance has bred confidence not only within himself but also the skaters in front of him.
It was a big bet to bing him back, but if he’s able to continue this trend, it’ll be a worthwhile partnership.
More must-reads: