September 19, 2026 • 3:02 PM EDT
Updated 2 hours ago
The Pittsburgh Penguins drew a big crowd at the UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex on Saturday, capping off the third and final day of group practices before preseason games kick off. With the regular season looming, you could feel the urgency on the ice, especially from players fighting for roster spots.
Team 1 hit the ice first, with stars Sidney Crosby, Rickard Rakell, and the buzzing Nick Robertson leading the way. Robertson, in particular, continued what’s been a standout camp, showing off his release and knack for making big plays. He’s not just surviving next to Crosby and Rakell; he’s looking like a serious top line candidate. If you’re betting on early-season lines, keep that in mind as the regular season nears on September 30.
Out of nowhere, Elmer Soderblom jumped into Team 1 and seized his shot. Despite slipping up on Thursday with a schedule mix-up, Soderblom rebounded by driving offense and finding the net, especially impressing with a move around Owen Pickering. He’s deep in the mix for the 12th forward slot, and he’s building a compelling case with back-to-back solid days.
Keep an eye on Taylor Gauthier as a depth goalie, too. He’s probably Wilkes-Barre/Scranton-bound, but his best day yet shows he’s only getting stronger. Owen Pickering was a rock defensively and looked quicker than last season. While he might not start in the NHL, don’t be shocked if he gets some call-up time down the road.
Team 2’s ice time was all about Ben Kindel’s shot. He was finding corners regardless of which goalie stood in the crease. Bigger and stronger after the offseason, Kindel’s got real 20-plus goal upside this year. For player prop bettors, he’s one to watch if he secures a full-time role.
Rutger McGroarty kept his energy up, building momentum from Friday and impressing with solid forechecking and finish around the net. He even flashed a smooth move going forehand-backhand through the five-hole and repeated it in a 3-on-3 drill, showing it wasn’t a fluke. He’s making a real case for a bottom-six spot and might be a dark horse to watch for preseason surprises.
Bryan Rust showed his wheels, finding the net repeatedly and getting more work alongside Kindel and Kuzmenko. There’s a genuine chance that trio starts the season together, meaning lines could look fresh and spark more offense.
The third group wasn’t lacking for storylines, either. Tanner Howe and Bill Zonnon started building chemistry that could give Wilkes-Barre/Scranton some edge this year, and Carter Sanderson brought the scoring touch he showed at the Prospect Tournament into camp. With Sanderson set for the Calgary Hitmen next year and then college after that, the Penguins have another intriguing prospect developing.
The Penguins have Sunday off before facing the Buffalo Sabres in their first preseason game Monday. Expect the opening lineup to drop before the morning skate, and it’s clear several roster spots are still there for the taking.
According to Yahoo Sports, these camp sessions are shaping up the lines and roster battles in a big way.
Who’s making a case for the Penguins roster?
- Nick Robertson keeps building trust with Crosby and Rakell. His offensive pop makes him a real top-line contender when the season starts.
- Elmer Soderblom shrugged off an early camp mistake and put up two strong days, scoring at clutch moments. He’s in serious conversation for 12th forward.
- Ben Kindel’s shot got stronger, pointing to breakout potential. His size and skill could force his way into the lineup and rack up goals if he sticks.
- Rutger McGroarty is showing off a high compete level and creativity. His two-way play gives him an edge for a bottom-six spot.
- Bryan Rust looks rejuvenated and is meshing well on a line with Kindel and Kuzmenko, possibly revealing early hints for the opening night third line.
- Tanner Howe and Bill Zonnon are building chemistry that could translate to AHL success in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton.
What changed and why should you care?
- Lines are starting to solidify, offering betting clues for early regular-season games.
- Young guys are outperforming expectations, forcing tough choices for the final roster.
- Veterans aren’t coasting — players like Rust are showing up sharp and hungry for bigger roles.
- The depth of the organization is on display, with prospect progress evident in all three groups.
- Monday’s preseason opener should clarify roster battles, so stay alert to line combinations and deployment.
Key takeaways for bettors and fans
- Nick Robertson’s surge makes him a stealth pick for points props if he sticks in the top six.
- Soderblom’s revival could land him roster time and longer shot scorer props early on.
- Kindel looks physically ready and has a hot stick, pointing to potential value for rookie or goal markets.
- Rust’s chemistry with new linemates opens opportunities for secondary scoring props.
- McGroarty’s all-around hustle gives him upside for hits, blocks, and value minutes if he makes the team.
- Watch for preseason lineups on Monday, as who gets top-six minutes should guide preseason and futures action.
- Depth at forward and on defense means injuries or slow starts may quickly shake up early lines, so monitor training camp closely.
- The depth in net and defense will impact minor league and call-up props throughout the year.
- Early momentum from camp can lead to opening-night surprises — don’t sleep on prospects making impacts out of the gate.
More coverage: latest NHL news, NHL analysis and odds and NHL picks and predictions.
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