The Pittsburgh Penguins are entering the upcoming season with optimism after a successful 2025‑26 campaign that saw them clinch a playoff berth and push deep into the postseason.
Central to that optimism is 22‑year‑old defenseman Owen Pickering, whose breakout potential has been highlighted by a strong showing in the American Hockey League.
Pickering’s performance in the AHL this past year was impressive, as he recorded seven goals, 21 assists and a total of 28 points across 68 games, showcasing both offensive upside and defensive reliability.
The team’s defensive core has undergone changes this offseason, with the loss of veteran Ryan Shea and the departure of Parker Wotherspoon creating openings that Pickering is eager to seize.
Having been selected in the 2022 first round, Pickering arrives with a skill set that includes a powerful point shot, solid skating and a willingness to engage physically, traits that coaches believe can translate into a full‑time NHL role.
A New Chapter for the Blue Line
The upcoming training camp will be a critical proving ground for Pickering, who must demonstrate consistency and adaptability against top‑level competition.
If he earns a regular spot, his chemistry with established defensemen like Kris Letang and Marcus Pettersson could become a cornerstone of Pittsburgh’s defensive identity.
The organization’s affiliate, the Wilkes‑Barre/Scranton Penguins, will continue to serve as a development platform, but the ultimate test will be his performance at the NHL level.
With the season fast approaching, all eyes will be on Pickering as he looks to transform preseason promise into regular‑season impact.