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Jason Mackey's Penguins chat: 12.18.25
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Jason Mackey
12:47
I don't think we NEED to. It's a hockey chat. But if you want to, go nuts.
Sunner in Orlando from Lebo
12:47
In your opinion, what has been the problem in overtime and shootouts? Is it a mental issue or could it be the top guns are older players that are exhausted by the time OT and shootouts are played?
Jason Mackey
12:47
At this point, I think it's at least part mental. It's a variety of things, though. In overtime, changes have been an issue. Goaltending obviously hasn't been very good. The ceiling can also only go so high; in other words, they're not build with a ton of skill and players who dominate in the shootout.
Sunner in Orlando from Lebo
12:48
What is the cause for the odd man breaks? Whether it be a 2 on 1 or 3 on 1, are the Pens defensemen trying to get into the offensive rush too much or are guys like Letang turning the puck over too much at the point leading to odd man rushes going the other way?
Jason Mackey
12:48
Is both an answer? Letang has turned it over a ton. He also takes the same gambles he did when he was younger. The only issue is that he can no longer recover from them. My blanket answer would be not admitting what they are at this point and playing within that.
Pablo
12:49
Who’s more likely to acquire talent: GMBC or Kyle Dubas?
Jason Mackey
12:50
That's a tough one, Pablo. Probably GMBC, just because that's more of where they're at. But I certainly understand (and mostly agree with) the perceptions of the Pirates' limits in free agency. Where the Penguins are at, Kyle isn't looking to add a piece and sacrifice the future just to push now. Ben should be.
Billy Conn
12:50
Hey Jason, thanks for the chat. Can Skinner help out now the way Jarry was? Jarry (after years) finally was stealing some games.
Jason Mackey
12:51
I think so. I think it was a tough ask last game on Skinner. He's been a really good goalie in this league. They obviously need to play a lot better in front of him, but that was also true for Jarry. I like Skinner. I wanna see him get established.
Paul
12:51
What are your thoughts on Mantha getting PP1 time over Kindel, who was really making an impact there. I know Malkin is out, Raks returned, and Mantha offers a bigger body, but it seems like the power play was at its best with Kindel on the ice. Plus, it’s probably great for his development to be out there with the like of 87, 65, and company.
Jason Mackey
12:51
I would rather see Kindel there, Paul. I don't get it. Kindel has been solid on the PP. Not sure what Mantha brings, other than maybe you want to try and get him going 5-on-5. That's the only thing I can come up with.
Mack Attack is Back Jack
12:51
Any insight into whether Mario will be involved with the new ownership? Seems like a smart idea for the new owner group to at a minimum create a positive relationship with 66 and have him be back in the fold. It’s just more special seeing him up in his customary box, and his involvement, however small, would probably have a positive impact on players like Crosby. Would you agree?
Jason Mackey
12:54
I would be shocked if Mario wasn't around the rink more. However, I don't think he's going to be involved with hockey or day-to-day business decisions.

I think the best thing the Hoffmann group can do is make Mario feel welcomed, to have him around as a consultant and pick his brain on things. Make sure people know that, too.

But it's not like he's itching to get back knee-deep in ownership stuff or anything like that.

FWIW, I think Sid is unaffected by this. His numbers would bear that out. Never a bad thing to have Mario around, I agree. But it's more just smart business for the new group looking to connect with the fanbase.
TS
12:54
Jason, thanks for the chat. Letang has had an incredible career with the Pens. Unfortunately, he has become a huge defensive liability. He isn’t going anywhere but how would you handle his playing time going forward. Lastly, do you see any scenario where Dubas makes a move to strengthen this team’s defense. Thank you.
Jason Mackey
12:55
He just did, didn't he? I'd play Letang. What else are you going to do? Bench the franchise icon who costs $6 million or whatever against your cap? I would deploy him with Kulak. I don't know why they haven't done that. He's had a history of playing with offensive-minded guys. Why not give that a shot?
Friend in PA
12:55
After the last couple of games time to bring up Broz and Pickering? Rather lose with under 24 players.
Jason Mackey
12:56
Eh, I know that's the easier lever to pull. But they do HAVE leads to lose. Why not drill deeper into sustaining that level?
Ryan
12:56
Jason what do you think about the play of Bryan Rust he has looked good recently does he score tonight also does Crosby have the point record in Montreal go pens Merry Christmas
Jason Mackey
12:56
He's looked really good, Ryan. Love watching the evolution of Rust's game.

Yes and yes on the predictions. I think Rust scores. And I think Crosby gets the record.
Tim and Maria
12:57
Hi Jason, as huge fans of Mario, we are wondering if you think he will be involved with the new ownership if he’s interested doing so.  Thanks.
Jason Mackey
12:57
Thanks for reading, Tim and Maria. I would be shocked if Mario wasn't around the rink more. However, I don't think he's going to be involved with hockey or day-to-day business decisions.

I think the best thing the Hoffmann group can do is make Mario feel welcomed, to have him around as a consultant and pick his brain on things. Make sure people know that, too.

But it's not like he's itching to get back knee-deep in ownership stuff or anything like that.
Ridiculous
12:58
People on social media (where else) are already wanting Dan Muse fired. This team was supposed to be hot garbage with cheese and they're fighting for the playoffs. These people have "Fire Tomlin" on the brain (eyeroll)
Jason Mackey
12:58
They're not going to fire Dan Muse 32 games into his first year when they're a couple points out of a playoff spot. Especially when you consider the context of most believing they're be a bottom-five NHL team this year.

They're in a rough spot, no doubt. Muse can be better in several areas. But I think some patience and a deep breath is required here.
Seven
12:59
Thanks for the chat and your great work! Since Mario and Burkell already are minority owners, wouldn't it make sense for the Hoffmans to invite them to continue participating in the team's future? I know you will report as soon as you have more facts, but what does your gut tell you about that possibility?
Jason Mackey
12:59
I don't see Burkle continuing on. I think Mario will be around. But an active part of the ownership group, I have my doubts.
Ryan Graves
12:59
After the disaster game I had vs Utah I'm never playing again am I ?
Jason Mackey
1:00
I don't know if I see Jack St. Ivany sticking long-term. But there is a log jam here. Tough to see a path to playing time for Graves & Clifton at the moment.
Seven
1:00
Most ridiculous moment in Pittsburgh sports history: Will Craig rundown, or losing a NHL game you lead on a power play with .1 second left?
Jason Mackey
1:00
Oh, Craig rundown. That was insane. Nothing tops that. Unless someone wants to turn around and throw the puck in the net. (Not a suggestion)
Maybe
1:00
Could the reason why Karlsson has been so bad be because Wortherspoon isn't that good either ?
Jason Mackey
1:01
Karlsson has been SO bad? Don't know if I agree with that. Pair has actually been solid. I know, recently a lot of things have been bad. I just don't think there's a huge alarmingly situation specifically with those two.
Friend in PA
1:01
I thought the Pens would use cap space and draft capital to get someone like Hughes to begin replacing the aging superstars. Now that he's gone. Is there someone else out there like him? Team starting a rebuild. Need to unload the contract. But player is young enough to be in or near his prime for a significant portion of the contract?
Jason Mackey
1:02
That would be the type of deal Dubas might have to do. Just depends on what you're giving up. If you're giving up a bunch of future assets, no. But if you're taking players to help a team's cap situation but getting something you like in return, maybe.

It's a tight needle to thread. I'm sure there are candidates. But I would need a little more time to dig into that.
Hindsight
1:02
I think in a few years from now people will wax poetically about Jarry the way they did about Fleury. They'll forget they wanted to run him outta town like they did with MAF
Jason Mackey
1:03
I think they're different cases. People should be well-aware of what Jarry didn't accomplish. He also played better than I think people give him credit for. But Fleury was a top pick, won Cups, eventual Ring of Honor guy, huge fan favorite. I just think they're apples and oranges when you wanna compare legacies or how they'll be remembered.
Yuri
1:03
Hello Jason.  I understand Mario’s son is developing into quite the golfer.  Do you know if golf experts have indicated whether he is good enough to go on the pro tour?  Thank you Jason.
Jason Mackey
1:04
Hi, Yuri, I have no idea. I do believe he's on the Korn Ferry Tour. But I don't know enough about Austin to know if he's expected to rise above that.
Carlson
1:04
Any idea if Mario is flying to Montreal to see Sid break his record?  It would have been nice if the record could have been broken at home!with Mario in attendance.
Jason Mackey
1:05
I don't, Carlson. Was wondering that myself. I did not see 66 at the skate, although I also didn't expect to. Montreal is a different story. I'm more curious if he's here tonight, honestly. But, man. Would that be fun -- to do at Bell Centre, Mario there watching.
Butch
1:16
God Bless You!  You are the jack of all trades.  Pens, Steelers, and Pirates chats!  Thanks for all that you do!  Greatly appreciated!
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