The Pittsburgh Penguins are facing significant challenges this season, struggling with inconsistent performances under head coach Mike Sullivan. Despite having key players like Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang, the team lacks the necessary depth and draft picks to effectively rebuild or retool.

General Manager Kyle Dubas is caught between the desire to win now and the need for a rebuild, a situation complicated by past decisions to retain aging stars. The Penguins' struggles mirror those of other teams, like the Calgary Flames, highlighting the difficulties of balancing competitiveness with the need for long-term planning.