There has been a trade in the NHL today. It’s not a significant trade or one that will likely make a big dent for either organization, but the Pittsburgh Penguins have acquired Alex Nylander from the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for Sam Lafferty. Two depth players who could likely use a change of scenery, it appears both organizations want to try something new and see if there’s a spark from either forward.
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The Penguins are likely taking a chance that a player like Nylander can find some offense, even though he’s struggled with consistency having bounced around the NHL a little and been up and down between the NHL and the AHL. Nylander is signed through the current season at an average annual value of $874,125.
For the Blackhawks, they get Lafferty, who is signed through the 2021-22 season and carries a $750,000 salary cap hit. Scott Powers of The Athletic writes of the player:
“From a scout on Sam Lafferty: “He’s a bottom-6 guy that when he plays fast and heavy can be effective. He’s good on the PK. He’s a role player that I thought might put up numbers with a couple talented linemates, but he hasn’t done that. A change of scenery should do him good.”
Lafferty, 26, had six points in 34 games for the Penguins last season. He’s struggled to make the team’s lineup this year: and scored just two points in 10 games.
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