The Penguins conducted their first bit of business in what promises to be an active and impactful offseason. And I must say, I like it.
Kyle Dubas signed feisty fourth-line stalwart Connor Dewar to a two-year extension with an AAV of $2.25 million. He also inked defenseman Ilya Solovyov to a one-year deal with a cap hit of $850 K.
When Dubas extended Blake Lizotte back on January 12, I thought “why not Dewar, too.” IMHO, the former Everett Silvertips captain has been excellent in his role since arriving from the Maple Leafs last spring as part of a two-man return for a fifth-round pick (!!), as his 18 goals in 95 regular-season games wearing the black and gold will attest. (Thanks, Brad Treliving!)
Indeed, the scrappy 26-year-old’s provided speed, sand (144 hits) and an underrated scoring touch, while performing his defensive and penalty-killing duties with diligence and gusto. All the while blending seamlessly with Lizotte and veteran Noel Acciari on what was arguably the best fourth line in hockey this season.
As for Solovyov? I confess I had a little difficulty getting a fix on the 25-year-old native of Belarus. But he’s big (6’3” 208), isn’t shy about playing the body, skates and moves the puck at least reasonably well and can play his off-side. A little error-prone to my eye, but solid underlying numbers.
It’s early. But so far this off-season Dubas is batting 1.000 in my book.
Make It Three-for-Three
The Baby Pens announced that they signed 2025 first-round pick, Bill Zonnon, to an ATO (amateur tryout agreement). Which means the 6’2″ 190-pound power forward will be eligible to join the team, effective immediately.
The 22nd overall pick in this season’s Entry Draft, Zonnon shook off a lower-body injury that delayed the start of his season to tally 14 goals and 46 points in 35 games for Blainville-Boisbriand of the QMJHL.
