Pittsburgh Penguins Target Forward JP Hurlberg in Draft Projections

Pittsburgh Penguins Prepare for NHL Draft

As the Pittsburgh Penguins eye their future despite a playoff appearance this season, the team is gearing up for the upcoming NHL draft. With their first-round selection, analysts are speculating that they will target a promising talent to strengthen their roster.

Potential Draft Pick: JP Hurlberg

In a recent mock draft posted by The Athletic‘s Scott Wheeler, it is forecasted that the Penguins will choose forward JP Hurlberg with the 22nd overall pick.

Hurlberg, a 6-foot winger, comes off a standout campaign in the Western Hockey League (WHL), recording impressive stats of 42 goals, 55 assists, and a total of 97 points, alongside a plus-13 rating across 68 games with the Kamloops Blazers. His performance showcases his substantial offensive abilities, indicating he could enhance the Penguins’ prospect pool as the organization navigates its retooling phase.

Strategic Move for the Penguins

With a noted need for talent on the wing, selecting Hurlberg could be a strategic move for the Penguins if he remains available when they make their choice. As the draft approaches, it remains to be seen whether the team will solidify their interest in this rising star.