Penguins Update: The Development Game

As with any sport, player development in hockey isn’t an exact science. Far from it. Indeed, Penguins history is littered with first-round picks who didn’t pan out. For every Sidney Crosby, there’s an Angelo Esposito. For every Evgeni Malkin, a Konstantin Koltsov. For every Marc-Andre Fleury? A Craig Hillier.

Ever heard of Gordie Laxton, Stefan Bergkvist or Chris Wells?

First-rounders all.

On the flip side, the Pens have gleaned more than their share of talent in the later rounds. Kris Letang (62nd overall), Ryan Malone (115th) and top-line bookends Jake Guentzel (77th) and Bryan Rust (80th) are prime examples.

Why do some players develop while others don’t? Obviously, much depends on the individual and how well they adapt to the pro game, which can be quite a challenge. Last season erstwhile junior hockey stars Samuel Poulin and Nathan Legare struggled at times to adjust to the rigors and speed of the pro game, especially the latter.

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