Penguins Prospect Report: Yager, Blomqvist, Poulin, Pickering…

Penguins Prospect Report: Yager, Blomqvist, Poulin, Pickering…

Despite the Pittsburgh Penguins’ farm system being ranked in the lower echelons of the NHL, there are notable prospects worth monitoring. With two players featured in the top 100 of The Hockey Writers (THW) rankings, fans should familiarize themselves with these promising prospects midway through the 2023-24 season.

Brayden Yager, a 19-year-old forward, was the Penguins’ 14th overall pick in the 2023 Draft, showcasing his skills as the 11th-ranked North American skater by NHL Central Scouting. Following a strong season with the Moose Jaw Warriors, he has excelled with almost a point-and-a-half per game, tallying 53 points in 34 games by Jan. 28.

Yager’s well-rounded game, particularly his playmaking with 32 assists, positions him as one of the most exciting players in the Western Hockey League (WHL). While expectations are high for him to become a key playmaker for the Penguins, he may need another year before potentially joining the lineup.

Joel Blomqvist, a 2020 second-round pick, is making waves as a potential long-term backup or competitor for Tristan Jarry in goal. The Finnish goalie, playing for Wilkes-Barre/Scranton in the AHL, boasts impressive stats, ranking in the top three in wins (13), goals-against average (2.13), and save percentage (.922).

Despite Jarry likely remaining the primary netminder, Blomqvist’s strong start may position him as a full-time NHL backup, especially with uncertainties surrounding Alex Nedeljkovic’s contract status.

Samuel Poulin, a 2019 first-round pick, has shown promise despite an injury sidelining him earlier in the season. Playing for Wilkes-Barre/Scranton since the 2021-22 season, Poulin’s versatility across all three forward positions, coupled with strong defensive play and playmaking abilities, makes him a prospect to watch. If he returns to form, he could secure a permanent spot in the Penguins’ roster next season, following a brief NHL debut last year.

Owen Pickering, a 2022 first-round pick, adds to the Penguins’ array of playmaking prospects. Although not posting standout numbers, his impact on the power play is noteworthy, with 11 of his 28 points coming from such situations.

Pickering’s defensive skills and deceptive play in the defensive zone make him a promising 19-year-old defenseman. While his physical development is a work in progress, the Penguins hope he can evolve into a top-four defenseman.

In addition to these headline prospects, the Penguins have under-the-radar players like Cooper Foster and Zam Plante, both draft picks from 2023 and 2022, respectively. Foster plays for the Ottawa 67’s in the OHL, while Plante is with the Fargo Force in the USHL. These two players are worth keeping an eye on throughout the remainder of the 2023-24 season.”