Penguins Give Mark Eaton PTO Contract

April 27, 2013; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Mark Eaton (4) handles the puck against the Carolina Hurricanes during the first period at the CONSOL Energy Center. The Pittsburgh Penguins won 8-3. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Here’s a familiar player – defenseman Mark Eaton has reportedly signed a professional tryout contract with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins – according to the WBS’ site.

The Pittsburgh Penguins remember Eaton from his days with the team from 2006-2010. At age 35, Eaton is now just looking for another shot.

Today he got it, when the Penguins AHL team, the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, signed him to a PTO. And while this may not be what he wanted, this is another opportunity to prove his worth. Who knows – anything in the future can happen.

Eaton has spent the past two seasons with the New York Islanders where he posted just one goal and six assists through 96 contests.

While with the Pittsburgh Penguins, Eaton was able to win a Stanley Cup. And since the Islanders had claimed former Penguin defenseman Brian Strait off waivers, it’s only fitting the Pens grabbed Eaton.

This signing probably means the Pens want to have another veteran defenseman. Hypothetically, if Paul Martin doesn’t end up redeeming himself this year or if someone falls to a season-ending injury – Eaton will provide insurance.

Instead of having to integrate a young defensive prospect, Pittsburgh is giving themselves options for certain circumstances.

Look to see how the Mark Eaton situation unfolds.