Penguins’ Goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic Returns to Action
After missing the start of the season due to a lower-body injury, Pittsburgh Penguins goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic has rejoined the team for its four-game road trip. Nedeljkovic was recalled from a conditioning loan with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins of the American Hockey League, where he made a successful return to the ice.
A Successful AHL Stint
In his lone start with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Nedeljkovic made 33 saves in a 4-3 victory over Lehigh Valley. The 28-year-old goaltender was pleased with his performance, stating, “I felt good. It was nice. I saw a little bit of everything.” Nedeljkovic’s outing was a promising sign for the Penguins, who are looking to bolster their goaltending corps.
The Road Ahead
The Penguins will face a tough test on their four-game road trip, with matchups against the Winnipeg Jets, Calgary Flames, Edmonton Oilers, and Vancouver Canucks. With Tristan Jarry and Joel Blomqvist also in the mix, the team’s goaltending situation will be closely monitored. Nedeljkovic’s return could provide a boost to the team’s chances of success.
A Proven Track Record
Nedeljkovic has a proven track record in the NHL, with a career record of 60-45-22 and a 2.96 goals-against average. He led the league in GAA and save percentage in the 2020-21 season, earning him a spot on the NHL All-Rookie first-team. The Carolina Hurricanes selected him in the second round of the 2014 NHL draft, and he has also played for the Detroit Red Wings before signing with the Penguins as a free agent in July 2023.
Contract Extension
In June, Nedeljkovic re-signed with the Penguins on a two-year contract with an average annual value of $2.5 million. The deal reflects the team’s confidence in his abilities and provides stability in the goaltending position. With Nedeljkovic back in the fold, the Penguins are looking to make a push in the competitive NHL landscape.
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