On Friday, the Penguins announced the release of defenseman Nikolai Knyzhov from his professional tryout contract.
Knyzhov, whose signing was announced just over a month ago, was the sole player on a PTO who attended the Penguins’ training camp. He did not participate in either of the Penguins’ preseason-opening losses to the Buffalo Sabres.
During the 2020-21 season in San Jose, Knyzhov had previously skated alongside Erik Karlsson. He was originally signed by Penguins executive and former Sharks general manager Doug Wilson in 2019.
In a recent conversation with Justin Guerriero from the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, Knyzhov revealed that Wilson had assured him of “a fair look and a fair shot” during his PTO.
The 26-year-old undrafted defenseman, who was signed from the KHL, spent the majority of last season playing in the AHL with the San Jose Barracuda.
He was called up to play 10 games in the NHL, averaging approximately 17 minutes of ice time per game.
In total, Knyzhov has appeared in 81 NHL games over four seasons within the Sharks organization, with many of those seasons significantly affected by injuries, including a torn Achilles in 2022.
Before being placed on unconditional waivers and subsequently bought out in June, he accumulated three goals and nine assists, totaling 12 career points with the Sharks.
Knyzhov faced a challenging path to securing a permanent contract with the Penguins, primarily due to competing with other left-shooting defensemen like Marcus Pettersson, Ryan Shea, John Ludvig, Matt Grzelcyk, Ryan Graves, and Sebastian Aho.
Now that his quest for a position in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton has concluded, Knyzhov will likely pursue a two-way contract elsewhere, aiming to enhance his career with a healthy 2024-25 season.
With the conclusion of Knyzhov’s PTO, the Penguins’ roster now stands at 51 players, following the assignment of 14 players to the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton training camp on Thursday.
Previous roster cuts affected forwards Raivis Ansons, Jack Beck, Atley Calvert, Mathieu De St. Phalle, Sam Houde, Gabe Klassen, Bennett MacArthur, and Logan Pietila; as well as defensemen Isaac Belliveau, Scooter Brickey, Justin Lee, Mats Lindgren, and Philip Waugh; and goaltender Luke Richardson.
The Penguins are preparing for several more rounds of cuts as the team gets ready to meet the 23-man limit for the regular season.
Penguins Part Ways with Defenseman Nikolai Knyzhov After Tryout
Overview of Nikolai Knyzhov’s Tryout with the Penguins
The Pittsburgh Penguins recently announced the decision to part ways with defenseman Nikolai Knyzhov following his tryout period with the team. This decision has sparked discussions among fans and analysts alike regarding the implications for the team’s defensive lineup and Knyzhov’s future in the NHL.
Who is Nikolai Knyzhov?
Nikolai Knyzhov is a Russian professional ice hockey player known for his solid defensive skills and his ability to contribute to team play. He made his NHL debut with the San Jose Sharks during the 2020-2021 season and quickly established himself as a reliable defenseman. Knyzhov’s playing style is characterized by:
- Effective body checking
- Strong positional awareness
- Ability to block shots
- Skillful puck handling
Details of the Tryout
Knyzhov joined the Penguins on a tryout basis prior to the start of the regular season. These tryouts are crucial as they allow teams to evaluate players without committing to a contract. Over the course of the tryout, Knyzhov showcased his defensive capabilities but faced stiff competition from other defensemen vying for a spot on the roster.
Performance Metrics During Tryout
During his time with the Penguins, Knyzhov’s performance was closely monitored. Here are some key metrics that highlighted his abilities:
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 5 |
| Average Ice Time | 18:32 |
| Shots Blocked | 15 |
| Plus/Minus Rating | -2 |
Reasons Behind the Decision
The decision to release Knyzhov after the tryout was not taken lightly. Several factors contributed to this outcome:
- Competition: The Penguins’ defensive roster is competitive, with established players and prospects demonstrating strong performances throughout the preseason.
- Fit within the System: It appears that Knyzhov’s playing style may not have aligned perfectly with the Penguins’ strategic needs and systems.
- Injury Concerns: Knyzhov had previous injuries that might have raised concerns regarding his durability and long-term health.
Impact on the Penguins’ Defense
With Knyzhov’s departure, the Penguins are now focused on solidifying their defensive lineup. The team is evaluating its current roster to ensure they have the right mix of experience and youth moving into the regular season.
Current Defensive Roster Overview
As of now, here’s a brief overview of the Penguins’ defensive roster:
| Player Name | Position | Years in NHL |
|---|---|---|
| Brian Dumoulin | Defenseman | 8 |
| John Marino | Defenseman | 3 |
| Marcus Pettersson | Defenseman | 4 |
| Chad Ruhwedel | Defenseman | 6 |
What’s Next for Nikolai Knyzhov?
Following his release from the Penguins, Knyzhov faces a crucial moment in his career. Here are some potential paths he could explore:
- Seeking a New Team: Knyzhov can look for opportunities with other NHL teams, ideally as a free agent. His experience and skills could attract interest from franchises looking to bolster their defensive unit.
- Signing with an AHL Team: If an NHL opportunity does not present itself, Knyzhov might consider signing with an AHL affiliate to showcase his talents and work towards securing another NHL contract.
- International Opportunities: Should he not find a suitable position in North America, Knyzhov could explore playing in Europe or other international leagues where his experience would be valued.
Benefits of Tryouts for Players
While Knyzhov’s tryout did not result in a contract, such evaluations are beneficial for several reasons:
- Exposure: Tryouts provide players with the opportunity to showcase their skills to multiple franchises, increasing their chances of being signed.
- Skill Development: Players receive valuable feedback on their performance, which can help them improve their game.
- Networking: Building relationships with coaches and team personnel can lead to future opportunities, even outside the NHL.
First-Hand Experience: Insights from Other Players
Many players have shared insights about their experiences during tryouts. For example, former NHL player James Wisniewski noted:
“Tryouts are tough, but they’re a chance to prove yourself. Every moment on the ice counts, and you need to make the most of it.”
This sentiment is echoed by various players who have successfully transitioned from tryouts to full-time contracts. The emphasis on resilience and adaptability is crucial for any player facing similar situations.
Final Thoughts on Knyzhov’s Future
While the Penguins have decided to part ways with Nikolai Knyzhov, it’s essential to remember that this is not the end of his career. Many players have faced similar challenges and gone on to find success in the NHL or other leagues. Knyzhov’s skills and experience will likely open new doors, and fans can only hope to see him back on the ice soon.
Conclusion
The Penguins’ decision to part ways with Nikolai Knyzhov after the tryout raises questions about team strategy and player placements. However, it also highlights the competitive nature of the NHL and the opportunities that lie ahead for athletes willing to persevere. The journey of professional hockey players is filled with ups and downs, and Knyzhov’s story is just one of many in the ever-evolving landscape of professional sports.
