The Pittsburgh Penguins are gearing up for the 2025-26 NHL season with a focus on integrating youth into their roster, contingent on the return of several pending free agents. Currently, 16 players are under contract, leaving between two and four roster spots available for young talent, including notable prospects like Rutger McGroarty and Ville Koivunen, both of whom showed promise last season. Additionally, defenseman Jack St. Ivany and Owen Pickering are among those competing for a spot as the team seeks to retool and aim for a playoff return.