This time of year can be an exciting one for NHL free agents coming out of the college ranks and looking to turn pro. These types of players are usually late bloomers who weren’t drafted but have developed into pro prospects during their college years.
The Pittsburgh Penguins have used this route in the past to add players like Zach Aston-Reese and Conor Sheary, among others. Signing these types of players are great for teams that often trade draft picks, and the Pens are a popular destination for the FA’s to pick, because Pittsburgh has done well at giving opportunities to youngsters.