Ranking Pittsburgh Penguins prospects from six to ten has traditionally involved a fair amount of stretching the list, imaginative thinking, and ambitious projections. Historically, outside the top five, there hasn’t been a great deal of NHL-caliber talent, but rather a collection of players who might see minimal action on the fourth line before fading away into obscurity.
The 2024 Pittsburgh Hockey Now Penguins prospect rankings introduce a player from the 6-10 range who is set to make his NHL debut this season, along with a recent first-round draft selection and an impressive 19-year-old who dominated the Finnish Liiga last year. Listed at no. 10 is an intriguing long shot with an uncertain NHL future, yet his talent level is remarkable.
This year, Penguins fans can feel a sense of optimism. They will witness some of these prospects stepping onto the ice instead of clinging to the misguided hopes of previous years. For instance, our 2021 rankings featured Drew O’Connor at No. 7, but also included names like Sam Miletic, Cam Lee, and Emil Larmi—players whose names are seldom heard today. The 2022 list showcased Nathan Legare, Lukas Svejkovsky, and Filip Lindgren.
Indeed, it wasn’t an outstanding group.
Nevertheless, the 2024 rankings of the Top-10 Penguins prospects reflect a much higher caliber, with players ranked 6-10 boasting a genuine chance to play at the highest level and real NHL expectations. Let the games begin.
As is our annual practice, we will transition the prospect rankings to PHN+ later today. It’s worth noting that our grading scale has a more subjective approach this season. In prior years, we placed a heavy emphasis on NHL readiness. However, this season, we are considering potential lineup impact equally; talent level and possibilities have been highly regarded, allowing players like Mac Swanson at No. 10 to leap ahead of others who could see NHL action this year.
Check out the prospects who have either fallen or risen just outside the top 10, including an exciting potential Russian forward. Penguins prospects ranked 10 and above.
Penguins Prospect Rankings, 6-10
10. Mac Swanson
The exhilarating long shot.
Swanson’s NHL future remains uncertain. He was a seventh-round selection in the 2024 NHL Draft, standing at just 5-foot-8 and weighing 167 pounds. That’s the downside.
The upside for Swanson is his relentless work ethic and impressive offensive skills. As an 18-year-old, he netted 26 goals and amassed 77 points in 55 games for the Fargo Force in the USHL. Some amateur scouts have labeled him one of the most thrilling players in the USHL, known for his willingness to attack the net and his exceptional vision to make creative passes.
Next season, he will be heading to the University of North Dakota, providing an excellent opportunity to evaluate his performance against top-tier college competition.
Projection: AHL scorer with potential to exceed expectations. His presence in the Penguins organization might be delayed by three to four years. See you in 2028?
9. Ville Koivunen
No. 9 comes with a note of caution. Koivunen registered 56 points in 59 games in the Finnish Elite League, and those reviewing his stats are eager to watch him wear a Penguins jersey.
However, initial scouting reports from PHN during both Wilkes-Barre/Scranton and development camp reveal that he is an offensively talented player who must significantly adapt to the quicker North American game. While he attempts to control the pace, the limited space and faster play in North America present a challenge.
Read More: Two Penguins Prospects Soon Ready, One Is Not; WBS Screwed (+)
If he can make the necessary adjustments, the Penguins may have a top-six winger on their hands. However, adapting is no easy feat, and the rapid pace of the game does not appear to align with his natural strengths. Although he is primarily a center, the 6-foot, 167-pound forward possesses more skill than skating ability, indicating that playing on the wing might be a more suitable option for him in the NHL.
Projection: Middle-Six Winger, potentially a center, ready around the 2025-26 season.
8. Harrison Brunicke
The graceful skater with a right-handed shot.
Selected as the first of two Penguins second-round choices (44th overall) in 2024, Brunicke was among the youngest players in the draft, meaning he is likely bound for the WHL for at least two more seasons unless he surprises everyone by making the NHL roster. This right-handed defenseman is not a high-scoring offensive player or a physical powerhouse on defense. Instead, he is a smooth puck-moving defenseman who effectively holds his own in the defensive zone.
He possesses the size (6-foot-3, 196 pounds) necessary to safeguard the defensive zone, and he showcased his exceptional skating during the recent Penguins Development Camp.
Read More: Rookie Camp Gets Intense; Standouts and Surprises (+)
Typically, defensemen require significantly more time than forwards to transition into the NHL, and Brunicke seems likely to follow that trend. Still, he has a promising future, even if he may not be in the spotlight often.
Projection: Reliable second or third-pair NHL defenseman. He could be in the NHL by the 2026-27 season.
7. Owen Pickering
The still-developing defenseman possesses an ambiguous future.
Who exactly is Owen Pickering? Since being drafted 21st overall by the Penguins in 2022, he has grown two more inches, now standing 6-foot-5, and has added 20 pounds, demonstrating his commitment to the Penguins’ strength and conditioning program. He appeared significantly more physically developed at June’s development camp.
Nevertheless, his potential remains somewhat of a question mark. He is an all-around defenseman with a growing wingspan, yet his skating stride remains slightly awkward. He aims to incorporate more offensive elements into his game, but there have been signs of poor decision-making with the puck in his brief AHL exposure last season and a few instances at the recent camp.
If he had been a third-round selection, we would have positioned him outside the Penguins’ top 10. However, his first-round potential and the organization’s confidence in him are noteworthy. He’s turning pro this season, allowing us to monitor his development and overall potential.
In our opinion, his strengths lie in being a stay-at-home defender, especially if he can add some physicality near his crease.
Projection: Possible top-four defenseman by 2026. Potential bust.
6. Tristan Broz
After a sluggish start, Broz’s impressive second half last season with the University of Denver helped lead the team to a national championship. Naturally, he is a left-handed center who significantly improved his skating while showcasing his skills in the Da Beuty League. His minimum expectation is to be a bottom-six winger contributing offensively.
His highest potential is that of a productive third-line center.
In the recent WBS playoff games in April, he performed well, executing aggressive forechecks and generating plays and opportunities for his teammates, including Koivunen.
The 6-foot, 178-pound forward will celebrate his 22nd birthday in October, suggesting a clearer path to the NHL. We anticipate his chance to join the roster this season. The bigger questions remain about where and how he will fit in.
Projection: 15-goal third-line winger ready for his NHL debut this season.
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2024 Pittsburgh Penguins Prospect Rankings: Emerging Talents in the 6-10 Range
The Pittsburgh Penguins have long been known for their rich history of talent development, and as we look into the 2024 season, several prospects are poised to make a significant impact. In this article, we’ll delve into the Penguins’ prospect rankings, specifically focusing on the emerging talents in the 6-10 range. Each player offers unique strengths and potential, which could play a critical role in the team’s future success.
6. Ryan McCleary - Defenseman
Ryan McCleary is an intriguing prospect who has shown considerable promise in his development. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing 190 lbs, McCleary combines size with mobility, making him a formidable presence on the blue line.
- Current Team: Boston College
- Playing Style: Two-way defenseman
- Strengths:
- Strong skating ability
- Smart decision-making in both ends
- Effective shot from the point
McCleary has the potential to develop into a reliable top-four defenseman, contributing on both special teams and 5-on-5 play. His ongoing improvement will be pivotal in determining his future role in the Penguins’ lineup.
7. Felix Lindstrom – Forward
Felix Lindstrom has emerged as one of the most exciting young forwards in the Penguins’ system. At 5’11” and 185 lbs, his agility and quickness stand out, allowing him to navigate through tight spaces and evade defenders.
- Current Team: SHL (Swedish Hockey League)
- Playing Style: Playmaking forward
- Strengths:
- Exceptional vision and passing skills
- Ability to read the game quickly
- Strong hockey IQ
With his solid offensive instincts and ability to create plays, Lindstrom is expected to be a valuable asset for the Penguins in the coming years.
8. Marcus Johansson – Goaltender
With a height of 6’3″ and a weight of 210 lbs, Marcus Johansson is making waves as a goaltending prospect. His combination of size and skill positions him well for a bright future in the NHL.
- Current Team: WHL (Western Hockey League)
- Playing Style: Butterfly-style goaltender
- Strengths:
- Quick reflexes
- Strong positional play
- Ability to read shooters
Johansson’s development in the WHL will be crucial for him to transition successfully to professional hockey. His ability to perform under pressure could see him rise through the ranks quickly.
9. Liam O’Malley – Center
Liam O’Malley has become a standout prospect in the Penguins’ pipeline. At 6’0″ and 185 lbs, he brings a balanced skill set that makes him versatile on the ice.
- Current Team: USNTDP (U18)
- Playing Style: Two-way center
- Strengths:
- Strong faceoff ability
- Good defensive awareness
- Ability to contribute offensively
O’Malley’s two-way game and leadership qualities make him a valuable prospect for the Penguins as they look to strengthen their center depth in the future.
10. Evan Smith – Right Wing
Evan Smith rounds out our top ten prospects for the Penguins. Standing at 6’1″ and 195 lbs, he possesses a blend of size, speed, and skill that makes him a formidable winger.
- Current Team: NCAA (University of Michigan)
- Playing Style: Sniper with playmaking ability
- Strengths:
- Powerful shot
- Ability to create scoring chances
- Strong work ethic
Smith’s offensive upside and willingness to work hard on the ice suggest that he will be a player to watch as he progresses in his college career. His transition to professional hockey could be seamless if he continues to develop his skills.
Player Development and Impact on Team
Every prospect has the potential to become a vital part of the Pittsburgh Penguins’ future. Here are some key benefits of having emerging talents in the pipeline:
- Cost-Effective Talent: Developing players allows the team to save on salary cap space, which can be allocated to seasoned veterans.
- Long-Term Success: A strong prospect pool ensures the team remains competitive even as players retire or move on.
- Increased Depth: Young players entering the lineup can provide much-needed depth during injuries or slumps.
Case Study: Previous Penguins Prospects
Examining past successes can provide insights into the potential of current prospects. A notable example is Jake Guentzel, who was drafted in the third round and has developed into a key player for the Penguins. Guentzel’s rise shows how effective development can lead to significant contributions at the NHL level.
First-Hand Experience: Scouting Report Insights
Scouts highlight the importance of player development and how emerging prospects can change the dynamics of a team. According to various scouting reports:
- **McCleary** has been noted for his leadership on the ice, often serving as a mentor to younger players.
- **Lindstrom** has been compared to other elite playmakers, showcasing a capability to adapt to different playing styles.
- **Johansson** is recognized for his calm demeanor, even in high-pressure situations, making him a potential franchise goaltender.
Table: Overview of Top 5 Penguins Prospects (Rank 6-10)
| Name | Position | Current Team | Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ryan McCleary | Defenseman | Boston College | Strong skating, smart decision-making |
| Felix Lindstrom | Forward | SHL | Vision, passing skills, hockey IQ |
| Marcus Johansson | Goaltender | WHL | Reflexes, positioning, reading shooters |
| Liam O’Malley | Center | USNTDP | Faceoff ability, defensive awareness |
| Evan Smith | Right Wing | NCAA | Powerful shot, work ethic |
Practical Tips for Following Penguins Prospects
For fans interested in keeping track of the Penguins’ prospects, consider the following tips:
- Follow Key Games: Keep an eye on NCAA and junior league games where prospects are playing to gauge their performance.
- Engage with Community: Join forums and social media groups dedicated to Penguins prospects for insights and discussions.
- Read Scouting Reports: Access scouting websites and platforms to get detailed reports on player development and trajectory.
Conclusion
The Pittsburgh Penguins have a wealth of talent emerging from their prospect pool, specifically within the 6-10 ranking range. With players like McCleary, Lindstrom, Johansson, O’Malley, and Smith, the future looks promising for one of the NHL’s storied franchises. As these prospects continue to develop
