During this past off-season, the Pittsburgh Penguins signed defenseman Matt Grzelcyk to a one-year, $2.75 million contract in free agency. This was after the Massachusetts native had a tough finish to his Boston Bruins tenure, as he was scratched for 10 out of the Original Six club's 13 playoff games. He also had a quiet regular-season with Boston, posting two goals and nine assists in 63 contests.
With this, the Penguins hoped that Grzelcyk would have a bounce-back season after signing this one-year, prove-it deal. In the end, he not only turned things around but also arguably put together the best campaign of his nine-year career thus far. In 82 games, the 5-foot-10 blueliner set new career highs with 39 assists and 40 points. With this, he was one of the Penguins' bright spots in a tough 2024-25 season for the team.
Now, the Penguins have a big decision to make with Grzelcyk. The veteran blueliner is a pending unrestricted free agent, and the team now must decide if they plan to re-sign him or let him walk.
There is certainly an argument to be had for the Penguins to bring back Grzelcyk. He not only had an impressive offensive season but was also a key part of their roster. He spent time on their top pairing and on their power play, so the Penguins certainly would have a hole in their lineup if he walks.
Yet, after increasing his offensive numbers, Grzelcyk will very likely be looking for a raise with his next contract, which could complicate things. Furthermore, with the Penguins retooling, they will need to determine if the 31-year-old Grzelcyk makes sense as a long-term fit on their roster.
Nevertheless, it will be fascinating to see what happens between the Penguins and Grzelcyk from here. There is certainly a case to keep him around in Pittsburgh, but time will tell what happens on that front.
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