It's already August, and with the NHL in its slowest month, I thought it'd be cool to take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the biggest off-season moves in recent Pittsburgh Penguins history.
With not much happening now, aside from the possibility of a Sidney Crosby contract extension, it's a good time to look back at players who made a major impact, especially during playoff time.
I had quite a few names in mind, but I decided to focus on three. Here are three players the Penguins acquired through free agency or trades in the off-season who really made a difference for the team in the playoffs.
3. Nick Bonino: The Key to HBK Line Success
When I think of Penguins acquisitions that led to playoff success, Nick Bonino is the first name that comes to mind.
On July 28, 2015, the Pittsburgh Penguins made a trade that quietly set the stage for their impending success. Nick Bonino, along with Adam Clendening and a 2016 second-round pick, was acquired from the Vancouver Canucks in exchange for Brandon Sutter and a 2016 third-round pick. At the time, Bonino wasn't the headliner of the deal, but his impact would soon be felt in a big way.
Bonino’s arrival in Pittsburgh coincided with the formation of one of the most memorable lines in recent Penguins history: the "HBK Line," featuring Carl Hagelin, Bonino, and Phil Kessel. While Kessel often grabbed the headlines, Bonino was the glue that held this dynamic trio together.
During the 2015-16 regular season, Bonino's 9 goals and 20 assists in 63 games might not have turned many heads, but his true value shone in the playoffs. Over 24 playoff games, Bonino tallied 4 goals and 14 assists, proving to be an essential playmaker. His chemistry with Hagelin and Kessel brought a new dimension to the Penguins' offense, often overwhelming opponents with their speed and creativity.
Bonino’s defining moment came in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final against the San Jose Sharks. With the game tied 2-2 in the final minutes, Bonino found himself perfectly positioned to receive a pass from Kris Letang.
He calmly netted the game-winning goal, sending the Pittsburgh crowd into a frenzy and setting the tone for the series. His ability to rise to the occasion in clutch moments underscored his importance to the team’s success.
Bonino continued to be a reliable contributor in the 2016-17 season, posting 18 goals and 19 assists in 80 regular-season games. His versatility and defensive skills were on full display during the playoffs.
Though his offensive numbers dipped slightly, with 7 points in 21 playoff games, his presence on the ice was invaluable. He consistently made smart plays, won critical face-offs, and provided a calming veteran influence.
Bonino’s ability to perform under pressure and his contributions to the team’s defensive efforts were crucial components of the Penguins’ back-to-back Stanley Cup victories. His tenure with the Penguins might not have been the longest, but it was undeniably impactful. His contributions went beyond the stat sheet; he brought a work ethic and determination that embodied the spirit of those championship teams.
Bonino’s role as the underrated impact player in the Penguins’ back-to-back Stanley Cup victories cements his legacy as one of the most crucial off-season acquisitions in recent memory.