Here's an excerpt from my latest TribLive.com column:
Goaltender Tristan Jarry is an enigma. Lots of tools, no toolbox. He might be one of the NHL's top 10 goalies. But that's because the league might not have 10 above-average goalies.
Jarry makes every save but the one he has to. When he lost the starting job to Alex Nedeljkovic near the end of last season, he seemed unconcerned. Like he's not motivated by being pushed or challenged.
Goalie is a position for the odd, but Jarry is odd in an odd way. He nonetheless must be the No. 1 netminder. Talent makes him the Penguins' best bet.
To read the entire column, click HERE.
Jarry's career stats are solid: 2.79 goals-against average, .912 save percentage over eight seasons. He led the NHL in shutouts last season with six. He's played in two All-Star tournaments.
But he's never won a playoff series.
Jarry is easy to read. If he's at the top of his crease making saves in the first five minutes, Jarry has a good game. If he's caught deep, he's not focused. Bet the over.
The Penguins will go as Jarry goes. He's 29. If he's going to find another level, it's now or never.
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