Penguins Goalies Spark Debate as Playoffs Approach

Rookie Arturs Silovs faces criticism, but Penguins GM Kyle Dubas remains patient with young netminders

Apr. 6, 2026 at 8:07pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a hockey goaltender making a save, with sharp planes of navy, crimson, and gold colors overlapping to create a dynamic, abstract composition.As the Penguins' goaltending situation sparks debate, a cubist interpretation captures the fractured perspectives and high emotions surrounding the team's young netminders.Today in Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Penguins' 9-4 win over the weekend sparked a fiery debate among fans over the team's goaltending situation. Rookie Arturs Silovs, who has had an up-and-down season, allowed a soft goal in the first period, leading to calls for the Penguins to recall prospect Sergei Murashov. However, Penguins GM Kyle Dubas remains committed to developing Silovs and Skinner, believing the long-term benefits outweigh the short-term risks of exposing another young goalie to the NHL.

Why it matters

The Penguins' goaltending has been a point of contention all season, with both Silovs and Skinner ranking near the bottom of the league in key statistical categories. As the team pushes for a playoff spot, the performance and development of their young netminders has become a central focus for fans and the organization.

The details

Silovs, who had a 22-save shutout over the Vegas Golden Knights on March 1, has struggled in his last eight games, with his save percentage dipping to .888. This led to an overwhelming backlash from fans, who demanded the Penguins recall Murashov, the team's top goaltending prospect. However, Dubas and the Penguins' coaching staff remain committed to Silovs and Skinner, believing they can provide the necessary runway for the young goalies to develop and prove themselves at the NHL level.

  • On March 1, Silovs recorded a 22-save shutout over the Vegas Golden Knights.
  • In the eight games since the shutout, Silovs' save percentage has hovered around .860.
  • On Sunday, April 6, Silovs stopped 29 of 31 shots in a win for the Penguins.

The players

Arturs Silovs

A rookie goaltender for the Pittsburgh Penguins who has had an up-and-down season, including a 22-save shutout over the Vegas Golden Knights on March 1.

Sergei Murashov

The Penguins' top goaltending prospect, who some fans believe should be recalled to replace Silovs in the NHL.

Kyle Dubas

The general manager of the Pittsburgh Penguins, who remains committed to developing Silovs and Skinner despite the team's goaltending struggles.

Stuart Skinner

The Penguins' other starting goaltender, who ranks 33rd out of 53 goalies who have played at least 1100 minutes this season.

Dan Muse

The head coach of the Pittsburgh Penguins, who has been a strong advocate for Silovs and Skinner.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The Penguins will continue to monitor Silovs and Skinner's performance as they push for a playoff spot. If Skinner's injury from Saturday's game proves to be serious, the team may be forced to recall Murashov sooner than planned.

The takeaway

The Penguins' goaltending situation highlights the delicate balance between short-term results and long-term development. While fans are understandably frustrated with the team's struggles in net, GM Kyle Dubas remains committed to giving Silovs and Skinner the time and support they need to prove themselves at the NHL level.