In a significant development for the Pittsburgh Penguins, veteran goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic has rejoined the team for their upcoming four-game road trip. Nedeljkovic, who has been sidelined with a lower-body injury since the preseason, is expected to provide a much-needed boost to the Penguins’ goaltending depth as they embark on a challenging stretch of games against formidable Western Conference opponents.
The 28-year-old netminder recently completed a successful conditioning stint with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, Pittsburgh’s American Hockey League affiliate. In his lone start with the AHL club, Nedeljkovic displayed impressive form, making 33 saves in a thrilling 4-3 victory over the Lehigh Valley Phantoms.
Nedeljkovic’s Road to Recovery
Nedeljkovic’s return to action comes after a challenging start to the season. The experienced goaltender suffered a lower-body injury during a preseason game on September 30th, forcing him to miss the Penguins’ first few regular-season contests. However, his successful conditioning stint in the AHL has provided a glimmer of hope for the Penguins, who have been relying on the tandem of Tristan Jarry and rookie Joel Blomqvist in Nedeljkovic’s absence.
I felt good. It was nice. I saw a little bit of everything,
– Alex Nedeljkovic on his conditioning start with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton
A Timely Boost for the Penguins
Nedeljkovic’s return comes at a crucial juncture for the Penguins, who are set to embark on a demanding four-game road trip through Western Canada. The team will face off against the Winnipeg Jets, Calgary Flames, Edmonton Oilers, and Vancouver Canucks – all formidable opponents with potent offensive weapons. Having a seasoned goaltender like Nedeljkovic available could prove invaluable as the Penguins look to secure crucial points in their quest for a playoff spot.
Last season, his first with the Penguins, Nedeljkovic posted a respectable 18-7-7 record, along with a 2.97 goals-against average and a .902 save percentage in 38 appearances. His experience and poise under pressure could be key assets for Pittsburgh as they navigate the challenges of playing in hostile road environments.
A Proven Track Record
Prior to joining the Penguins, Nedeljkovic established himself as a reliable NHL goaltender with the Carolina Hurricanes and Detroit Red Wings. He was originally drafted by the Hurricanes in the second round of the 2014 NHL Entry Draft and went on to lead the league in goals-against average (1.90) and save percentage (.932) during the 2020-21 season, earning a spot on the NHL All-Rookie First Team.
Nedeljkovic’s impressive performances caught the attention of the Penguins, who signed him as a free agent in July 2023. The two-year contract, carrying an average annual value of $2.5 million, reflects the team’s confidence in his abilities and their belief that he can play a significant role in their success.
Looking Ahead
As the Penguins prepare for their upcoming road trip, all eyes will be on Nedeljkovic and his potential impact on the team’s fortunes. With his injury woes seemingly behind him, the talented goaltender will be eager to prove his worth and help the Penguins climb the standings in a highly competitive Eastern Conference.
The team’s first test comes on Sunday when they face off against the Winnipeg Jets, followed by a Tuesday meeting with the Calgary Flames. The road trip continues with games against the Edmonton Oilers on Friday and the Vancouver Canucks on October 26th. Each of these matchups presents unique challenges, but with Nedeljkovic back in the fold, the Penguins will undoubtedly feel more confident in their ability to secure positive results.
As the NHL season unfolds, Alex Nedeljkovic’s journey back from injury and his potential impact on the Pittsburgh Penguins’ playoff aspirations will be a storyline to watch closely. With his proven track record and the team’s faith in his abilities, Nedeljkovic could very well be the X-factor that propels the Penguins to new heights in their quest for hockey’s ultimate prize.
