Articles / 6 Penguins Draft Picks That Didn’t Work Out in Pittsburgh

6 Penguins Draft Picks That Didn’t Work Out in Pittsburgh

T
The Hockey Writers
Jul 17, 2025 4:36 PM

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The Pittsburgh Penguins have become a topic of discussion regarding their draft history and the success of various players who have moved on from the organization. The article highlights how players like **Kris Letang** and **Marc-Andre Fleury**, once central to the Penguins' roster, have continued to thrive in their careers, contributing significantly to their new teams after leaving Pittsburgh.

Letang's ongoing defensive prowess has made a notable impact on the **Montreal Canadiens**. Meanwhile, Fleury continues to showcase his talents as a veteran goaltender with the **Chicago Blackhawks**, demonstrating that the Penguins' previous draft picks can flourish outside their original environment. Their achievements also raise questions about the team's drafting strategy and player development approach.

The piece also discusses other former Penguins like **James Neal** and **Phil Kessel**, who have played essential roles in their respective teams. Neal’s scoring ability has been instrumental for the **Dallas Stars**, while Kessel's playmaking skills continue to shine with the **Florida Panthers**. Overall, the article sheds light on how the Penguins' draft picks contribute to other teams' successes, leading to discussions on organizational decisions regarding talent retention and player development.