The Pittsburgh Penguins will likely retain their first round pick and select a prospect 14th overall.
The Pittsburgh Penguins will likely retain their first round pick and select a prospect 14th overall.
The 2023 NHL Draft is just under a week away and while it has been uncommon in the past, the Pittsburgh Penguins maintain a first round pick.
It’s rare for the Penguins to pick in the first round, especially during the Sidney Crosby-era as they have always strived for NHL-ready talent to support the stars.
After missing the postseason for the first time since 2006, their first round pick landed at 14th overall, and that’s a high-value selection in this draft.
A portion of the Penguins’ fan base suggests that new president of hockey operations Kyle Dubas should sell that pick, whether it be for NHL talent, cap relief, or other assets.
Dubas, however, plans on keeping the pick and taking a prospect who can help the Penguins down the line.
In a pre-draft press conference, Dubas said it is highly unlikely that he trades away the 14th overall selection.
Dubas said he and Penguins scouts have had their eyes on players and are hopeful they can help the team down the line.
The 2023 NHL Draft is set to be one of the deepest classes in recent memory and the Penguins could pull a great selection with their pick.
Dubas doesn’t believe anyone they take will be ready within a year or two, but adding to a depleted prospect pool is one of his top priorities.
Inside the Penguins' own Jacob Punturi has been hard at work creating draft profiles for a multitude of possible prospects the Penguins may select.
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