The first half of the 2024-25 season has been largely forgettable for Pittsburgh Penguins forward Drew O’Connor. After a strong start with three goals in his first six games, O’Connor went more than two months without finding the back of the net.
That slump finally came to an end this week when O’Connor scored twice in the Penguins’ 4-2 loss to the Detroit Red Wings on New Year’s Eve. He was inches away from adding even more, recording a team-high four shots on goal. While the loss was disappointing, getting the New Jersey native back on track could prove more valuable in the long run than the two points up for grabs that night.
Expectations for the 26-year-old winger had soared after his strong finish to last season. He ended the year with 12 points (7G-5A) in the final 18 games, playing alongside Sidney Crosby, and set career highs with 16 goals, 17 assists, and 33 points.
O’Connor’s 30+ game goal drought may have hurt his trade value, and with him set to become an unrestricted free agent after the season, his standing with the fanbase has taken a hit. However, his role on the team remains crucial. Despite scoring contributions from across the lineup, the Penguins have struggled to find a consistent scoring threat beyond their top forwards. Crosby, Bryan Rust, and Rickard Rakell have accounted for 35% of the Penguins’ total goals.
Recently, something has clicked between O’Connor and his new linemates, Cody Glass and Phil Tomasino. In just 22 minutes of ice time at 5v5, they’ve outshot their opponents 22-13 and out-attempted them 11-6. O’Connor’s first goal in Detroit remains the only tally for either side while this line has been on the ice.
As the Penguins fight to stay in playoff contention, O’Connor regaining his late-season form from last year is a key piece of their strategy heading into 2025.