Pittsburgh Penguins: Power Ranking the Defense

. Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports

10. Tim Erixon

Here is what we know for sure about Tim Erixon. Erixon was a first round draft pick of the Calgary Flames in the 2009 NHL draft but never signed with the Flames and was dealt to the New York Rangers. Erixon was then one of the main parts in the Rangers deal to acquire Rick Nash. After that trade, he then bounced around the NHL playing for three teams in the 2014-15 season. The Penguins then acquired Erixon as a throw in with Phil Kessel.

Here is what we don’t know about Tim Erixon. Can Erixon reach his pre-draft ceiling as a serviceable defensive defenseman that can eat minutes and be a legit NHL player? Can he build on the ninety plus NHL games he has played over the last three seasons and take the next step to become the latest failed first round pick that rights his ship in Pittsburgh? Will Erixon even be on the Pittsburgh Penguins roster come opening night?

The most likely scenario for Erixon in the upcoming season is to likely pass through waivers and start the season in the AHL. He’ll possibly see some time in the NHL this season due to ineffectiveness or injury but will also likely be one of the names that is bantered about in hypothetical roster construction. I don’t expect to see him in Pittsburgh for more than a cup of tea this season or ever for that matter.

Next: #9 - Sergei Gonchar