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Three Takeaways From Pittsburgh Penguins Season-Opening Loss

By Chris Ross

PITTSBURGH, PA - APRIL 16: Matt Murray #30 of the Pittsburgh Penguins makes a save during the third period in Game Four of the Eastern Conference First Round against the New York Islanders at PPG PAINTS Arena on April 16, 2019 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH, PA - APRIL 16: Matt Murray #30 of the Pittsburgh Penguins makes a save during the third period in Game Four of the Eastern Conference First Round against the New York Islanders at PPG PAINTS Arena on April 16, 2019 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images) /
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Jack Johnson, Pittsburgh Penguins
PITTSBURGH, PA – APRIL 16: Jack Johnson #73 of the Pittsburgh Penguins skates out onto the ice for the start of the first period in Game Four of the Eastern Conference First Round against the New York Islanders at PPG PAINTS Arena on April 16, 2019 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images) /

Jack Johnson is Still Not Good

Anybody who has watched Penguins hockey since Jack Johnson was signed has seen the defenseman consistently disappoint and play poorly. Unfortunately, it appears Johnson is in for another tough season, especially if his play on Thursday was any indication. Sometimes it seems as though Johnson is just skating around with no real purpose or destination. That, of course, is not a particularly useful skill in the world of professional hockey. Why is he still a regular part of the Penguins lineups? That’s a question only Mike Sullivan can answer, and to be honest, I’m not sure he knows either.

The most disappointing thing about Johnson is that he was once a pretty solid player. As a member of the Blue Jackets, Johnson was a vital member of a few playoff teams. After signing with Pittsburgh and watching expectations skyrocket, Johnson just hasn’t been the same guy. How long will the team continue putting him out on the ice? With recent trade rumors being shot down by Johnson himself, it looks like we may be in for another season in which he plays a significant role.

Until the Penguins admit to themselves that Johnson’s best days are behind him, they will continue to struggle defensively. It’s tough to see any player fail to make an impact, especially when that player came to the team with so much promise. In the case of Johnson, it’s become a problem that just can’t be ignored anymore. It’s time to admit that he’s no longer worthy of significant ice time.

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