Do the Pittsburgh Penguins have enough defensemen to evaluate during training camp?
If you think they do, think again.
The Penguins announced today that they've offered former San Jose Sharks defenseman Nikolai Knyzhov a professional tryout contract.
The Penguins have signed defenseman Nikolai Knyzhov to a professional tryout contract. pic.twitter.com/TxHEmU4HAh
— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) August 22, 2024
The positive side? Knyzhov is on the younger end of the hockey spectrum, which many Penguins fans have been begging for, as he's just 26 years old.
The downside? He's an unproven, undrafted player with limited NHL experience. What could go wrong? Over his career, he's recorded just 3 goals and 9 assists, totaling 12 points, with a plus/minus rating of -29. In other words, not much to judge.
In the 2023-24 season, Knyzhov managed only a single assist and a plus/minus of -6 in 10 games for the Sharks. He cleared waivers back in late June after mutually agreeing with the Sharks to terminate his contract.
Knyzhov and current Penguins defenseman Erik Karlsson have a history
Knyzhov, who has a history of injuries, will be fighting for a roster spot with the Penguins. Interestingly, he has some history with Penguins defenseman Erik Karlsson, as the two were linemates during the pandemic-shortened 2020-21 season in San Jose.
It's an intriguing situation, to say the least. Especially considering it's been noted that he and Karlsson had great chemistry during their pairing.
Securing a spot on the Penguins' 2024-25 roster won't be easy, and it's unlikely we'll see a reunion between him and Karlsson unless some unexpected trades occur. No chance the team is looking to move Ryan Graves, right?
All jokes aside, at best, Knyzhov is a depth piece for the Penguins, with some untapped potential—which is precisely why he's been brought in for the tryout in the first place. It is an interesting situation to monitor, with camp looming around the corner in the coming weeks.
As training camp approaches, expect much more news to unfold in the coming weeks. It's recommended to check back daily for new content and follow us on X for real-time updates as they happen.
The anticipation is building—Penguins hockey is almost back!