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Pittsburgh Penguins focus on Sam Girard ahead of new season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 14, 2026, 11:40 AM

Last updated Aug 14, 2026

Pittsburgh Penguins focus on Sam Girard ahead of new season

Summary

As the Pittsburgh Penguins prepare for the 2026-27 NHL season, defenseman Sam Girard is at a pivotal point in his career. Entering a contract year, Girard aims to solidify his role after a mixed performance last season, where he registered seven assists in 20 games. He is expected to be a key figure on the blue line, possibly paired with Kris Letang or Erik Karlsson. The team has emphasized the necessity for Girard to maximize his potential, especially in light of limited options among left-shot defensemen. With unrestricted free agency looming, Girard has additional motivation to excel on the ice this season and secure his future.

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By the Numbers

•Girard enters the season in a contract year.
•He played only 20 games last season with seven assists.
•His latest season performance was hampered by injury.
•Girard is seen as a top left-shot defenseman on the roster.
•The Penguins have limited options for defensive pairings.

Latest Updates

11:40 AMYahoo Sports — Building the Pens: what to expect from Sam Girard?

What they're saying

"
The latest in our informal series to set the building blocks for the upcoming Penguins season takes an individual bent about Sam Girard. Girard finds himself at a unique juncture entering the 2026-27 season. He is in a contract season, with unrestricted free agency on the horizon for himself for the first time. Despite only […]
— Yahoo Sports

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