Alex Nedeljkovic Returns to Team Roster, Reflecting Complex Goaltending Career

Alex Nedeljkovic has been added back to the 23-man roster, concluding a period away for personal reasons. His career has seen significant highs and lows, including a Calder Trophy finalist nod and an All-Rookie Team selection with Carolina in 2020-21 after posting a 1.90 GAA and .932 save percentage. However, he experienced a notable regression in his first campaign with the Detroit Red Wings (2021-22), recording a 3.31 GAA and .901 save percentage. This led to him being demoted to AHL Grand Rapids, though he showed improvement upon return with a .920 save percentage in six NHL contests. For the 2023-24 season, Nedeljkovic is slated for a backup role in Pittsburgh behind Tristan Jarry, having previously been traded to Detroit and signed to a two-year, $6 million deal. He finished the 2023-24 season as the Penguins' starter for their final 13 games, leading the team to an 8-1-3 record, though his Goals Saved Above Average (GSAx) was barely above zero. Nedeljkovic is best suited as a 1B or a 30-start backup.