PHN Unofficial 2018-19 Penguins Depth Chart

Before training camp begins, Pittsburgh Hockey Now is releasing its unofficial Penguins depth chart. The list will be continually updated each week into the season. The Pittsburgh Penguins begin training camp on Sept. 14 and begin preseason games begin Sept. 18. The Penguins have not yet released their training camp roster, but the 23-man NHL roster is effectively full. There will be 21 skaters, including 13 forwards, seven defensemen, and one goalie with NHL contracts.

For salary cap purposes, many teams don’t keep a full 23-man roster so the 14th forward spot may or may not be filled.

The list of forwards with NHL contracts includes Daniel Sprong and Dominik Simon. The only forwards without an NHL contract are free agent acquisition Jimmy Hayes and Zac Aston-Reese. Both will have to battle their way onto the opening night roster and neither is guaranteed a spot. Aston-Reese was knocked out of Round Two after a hit by Tom Wilson, who was subsequently suspended. Aston-Reese suffered a broken jaw and concussion.

Hayes, 28,  scored nine points (3g, 6a) in 33 games with the Devils last season. Aston-Reese, 24, scored six points (4g, 2a) in 16 games with the Penguins.

Starting goalie Matt Murray will be backed up by either Tristan Jarry or Casey DeSmith, both are on two-way deals. DeSmith is the likely backup as Jarry continues to develop in the AHL.

PHN’s Unofficial Penguins Depth Chart

*Editor’s note: Former WBS Penguins defenseman Frank Corrado was included on the depth chart. Corrado’s name appears on several WBS roster lists, but he is currently an unsigned unrestricted free agent. His name was removed as PHN confirmed his status.