ANTHONY ANGELLO Position: C
Shot: R
HT: 6-4
WT: 197
Age: 21
How Acquired: Round 5 (145th overall) 2014 Draft
• His 12 goals ranked second on Cornell in 2016-17. • Helped lead team to 2017 ECAC Tournament championship game. • Won the Greg Ratushny Award given to Cornell’s most promising rookie. • Tied for Cornell’s postseason scoring lead with four points in 2017 (2G-2A). • Led team with 11 goals and tied for second with 24 points as a freshman in 2015-16. • Awarded 2013-14 USHL Scholar-Athlete Award. • Drafted in 2013 by Omaha Lancers (USHL) in the fifth round (69th overall). • Selected to New York All-State First Team in 2013 while skating for Fayettesville-Manlius High. • Scored 66 goals in 34 career high school games at Fayetteville-Manlius High. • Penguins’ assistant GM Bill Guerin on Angello: “He’s a big kid, skates pretty darned well for a guy [his size]. He knows what type of game he has to play. He knows that he has to be responsible defensively, to be good on faceoffs, to be a good net-front presence, to be able to play in the ugly areas. He does do that, night-in and night-out. What we’re seeing now is that he also has a bit of a scoring knack, as well. … I would describe him as a really good player with size, who is going to be a very responsible. A guy you can count on.” -Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, December 26, 2016
ZACH ASTON-REESE Position: RW Shot: L
HT: 6-0
WT: 205
Age: 22
How Acquired: Signed as a free agent 3/14/17
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Joined the Penguins organization as a highly-coveted undrafted free agent in March of 2017. Made his pro debut with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins shortly after signing. One of three finalists for 2017 Hobey Baker Award (best player in college hockey). Named to first-team CCM Hockey All-American Team, named Hockey East Player of the Year and First-Team All-Conference in 2016-17. Tied for NCAA-lead in points with 63, led NCAA in goals scored with 31, in ‘16-17. One of three NCAA players ever to reach 50 points in 30 games or less all time: (Kyle Connor, Michigan, 2015-16; Johnny Gaudreau, Boston College, 2013-14). Voted Most Valuable Player and Best Forward by New England Hockey Writers in ‘16-17. Semifinalist for the Walter Brown Award in ‘16-17, presented annually to the best American-born college hockey player in New England. Had most hat tricks by a Northeastern player in one season (3) in more than 30 years; three hat tricks in 2016-17 tied for first in the NCAA. Tied school record for shorthanded goals in a season with four. Named the Phil Hines Award winner as New England’s most improved player in 2015-16. Voted Second-Team Hockey East in 2015-16. Two-year alternate captain at Northeastern. Collected 50 points in 138 career games over three seasons with the Lincoln Stars (USHL) from 2010 through 2013. Chosen as a USHL/NHL Top Prospects Game selection in 2011-12. Red Line Report scout Kirk Luedeke on Aston-Reese’s abilities: “He’s a smart 200-foot kind of a guy. He doesn’t have a ton of size, but he plays bigger. He’s heavy on pucks, he’s resposible, he’s diligent, he works hard along the walls and he goes to the dirty areas and he’s got some jam. The offense has really come up in the last couple of seasons, especially this season, that’s what’s getting a lot of people’s attentions, but the foundation is there.” -Sports Illustrated, March 3, 2017
JORDY BELLERIVE
Position: C
Shot: L
HT: 5-10
WT: 194
Age: 18
How Acquired: Attending camp on a tryout contract
• • • • • •
Put up 56 points (27G-29A) in 70 games in his second season with the Lethbridge Hurricanes (WHL) in 2016- 17, including 14 points (7G-7A) in 20 playoff games. Amassed a combined 92 points (38G-54A) in 135 games over two seasons with Lethbridge. Skated in four contests with Team Canada at the Ivan Hlinka Memorial tournament in ‘16-17. Served as Team Canada-Red’s (U17) alternate captain at the 2015-16 U17 World Hockey Championships, notching four points (2G-2A) in six games. First ever recipient of CSSHL Freshman of the Year Award in 2014-15 while playing for Okanagan Hockey Academy White Prep. Lethbridge head coach Brent Kisio on Bellerive’s performance in 2015 training camp: “He’s one of the guys you expect to come in and be one of the dominant guys here at camp and he hasn’t disappointed... He’s a special player.” -Global News, August 28, 2015.
CHASE BERGER Position: C
Shot: L
HT: 5-11
WT: 187
Age: 22
How Acquired: Attending camp on a tryout contract
• • • • • • • •
Put up 36 points in 2016-17, ranking fourth on Penn State, and tied for 11th in Big Ten. Tallied 23 assists in ‘16-17, which ranked third on the team and eighth in Big Ten. Berger’s 57.8 faceoff percentage ranked second in the Big Ten and 21st in NCAA in ‘16-17. Led team in power-play goals with six and finished third on team in shots with 145 in ‘16-17. Helped Penn State clinch the program’s first Big Ten tournament championship and NCAA tournament berth in ‘16-17. Earned his team’s top student-athlete award with a 3.94 GPA in ‘16-17. Amassed 27 goals and 34 assists in 122 games across two seasons with the Tri-City Storm (USHL); served as alternate captain in 2014-15. Penn State coach Guy Gadowsky on Berger’s style of play: “A goal scorer’s a tremendous thing, but he does a lot more. His habits away from the puck are excellent and I think his commitment to defensive hockey is good….He really does so much more than [score goals]. I still think that’s his true value, what he does all over the rink instead of just scoring goals.” -Daily Collegian, November 16, 2015
KASPER BJORKQVIST Position: RW Shot: L
HT: 6-1
WT: 198
Age: 19
How Acquired: Round 2 (61st overall) 2016 Draft
• • • • •
Came to North America this year to play his freshman season at Providence (Hockey East). Team Finland alternate captain at 2017 World Junior Championship; notched a goal and an assist, along with a plus-2 in six games at the tournament. Combined for 50 goals, 53 assists and 103 points in three seasons with the Espoo Blues (Jr. A SM-liiga) between 2013-14 thru ‘15-16. Finished second in points in Jr. A SM-Liiga with 66 in 2015-16; 28 goals ranked fourth, 38 assists ranked third. Penguins’ assistant GM Bill Guerin on Bjorkqvist: “The biggest thing with him is that he’s a very smart player. Numbers-wise, he’s not going to blow you away or anything like that, but, when you watch him play, he’s got a mature game. He plays a good 200-foot game.” -Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, December 26, 2016
RILEY BOURBONNAIS Position: C
Shot: L
HT: 5-11
WT: 194
Age: 23
How Acquired: Signed to minor-league contract
• • • • • • • • •
Signed an ECHL contract with the Wheeling Nailers on March 15, 2017. Led RPI with 17 goals and 31 points, and tied for second with 14 assists, in 2016-17. His 31 points ranked 20th in the ECAC in ‘16-17. Ten power-play goals and three shorthanded goals were both team-highs in ‘16-17. Teammates at RPI last season with William Reilly, the Pens’ 2017 seventh-round draft pick. Scored double-digit goals in back-to-back seasons at RPI (15 goals in 2015-16). Played for three teams over two seasons in USHL between 2011-13 (Cedar Rapids, Sioux City, Lincoln); amassed 88 points (42G-46A) over those three seasons. Finished 2011-12 second in scoring on Cedar Rapids with 39 points (17G-22A). RPI head coach Seth Appert on Bourbonnais: “His stick skill, strength on the puck and offensive playmaking ability give him the opportunity to be a valuable contributor at both ends of the ice.” -The Daily Gazette, July 16, 2013
BOBO CARPENTER
Position: LW Shot: L
HT: 5-11
WT: 185
Age: 20
How Acquired: Attending camp on a tryout contract
• His 32 points ranked fourth on Boston University in 2016-17. • Tied for second on the team with 14 goals in ‘16-17. • Son of 18-year NHL veteran Bobby Carpenter (WSH, NYR, LAK, BOS, NJD). • Finished third in scoring on Sioux City (USHL) in 2014-15 with 63 points (35G-28A) over 60 games. • Played with fellow development camp attendee Adam Johnson at Sioux City (USHL) for two seasons (2013-15). • Older sister, Alex, is a member of the U.S. National Team. She received the 2015 Patty Kazmeier Award, given to the top female player in the country, while skating for Boston College. • Boston University head coach David Quinn on Carpenter’s determination: “You throw a puck in a corner, he’s going to do everything he can to come out with it. When you add that type of will and determination with his skillset, you’ve got a pretty special player.”” -SB Nation College Hockey, October 7, 2015 • Carpenter’s father, Bobby Carpenter, on his childrens’ drive to play: “They’ll do anything to make themselves better. If you don’t have a passion, you are not going to be a very good player. They have the drive. Every day. They love being at the rink.” -Boston Globe, February 23, 2016
THOMAS DI PAULI Position: C
Shot: L
HT: 5-11
WT: 188
Age: 23
How Acquired: Signed as a free agent 8/19/16
• • • • • • • • • • •
Missed most of 2016-17 season, his first professional season, with various injuries after signing a two-year deal with the Penguins last summer. Played at Notre Dame from 2012-16 and was named an alternate captain his senior year. Voted Notre Dame’s offensive MVP following 2015-16 season. Tied for 14th in Hockey East with 14 goals in ‘15-16 for Notre Dame. Finished senior season at Notre Dame with 32 points (14G-18A), all career highs. Was teammates at Notre Dame with Penguins forward Bryan Rust. Represented Team USA at 2014 World Junior Championships in Sweden; registered two assists and a plus-4 in five games. Selected in 4th round (100th overall) in 2012 NHL Draft by Washington Capitals. Won gold at the 2012 Under-18 World Junior Championship. Born in Italy, moved to United States at the age of 12. Di Pauli on comparing his speed to Penguins forward and former Notre Dame teammate Bryan Rust: “I’m a similar type of player with a lot of speed, a lot of grit, hard working. Kind of the same size and body weight, too. Watching him and a lot of the other young guys was pretty encouraging. And obviously the coaching staff [in Pittsburgh] does a great job developing young players.” -Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, August 19, 2016
JAN DROZG
Position: RW Shot: R
HT: 6-0
WT: 174
Age: 18
How Acquired: Round 5 (152nd overall) 2017 Draft
• • • • • • • • •
Spent 2016-17 with Leksands IF J18 and J20 teams, combining for 54 points (22G-32A) in 39 games; also registered four points in six playoff games between the two age divisions. Starred for Team Slovenia in the ‘B’ Division of the Under-18 World Junior Championship in both 2017 and ‘16. Earned ‘Best Forward’ and ‘Top Player on Team’ honors both years, becoming the first player in the history of the U18 ‘B’ Division WJC to win ‘Best Forward’ twice. Helped Slovenia win gold in the ‘17 tournament, leading all players in both assists (8) and points (13). Had the highest faceoff winning percentage in the tournament in each of the last two years (81.3% in ‘17; 71.6% in ‘16). Has played 15 career games at the WJC-U18 level, putting up 26 points (12G-14A). Also won a bronze medal with Slovenia in the ‘B’ Division of the 2017 World Junior Championship. Drafted in the first round (54th overall) by the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies (QMJHL) in the 2016 CHL Import Draft. Former Penguins director of amateur scouting Randy Sexton on Drozg breaking out as a late bloomer: “Jan is a little bit of a late bloomer. He’s from Slovenia, moved to Sweden and really caught our guys’ eyes in the second half of the year. We brought him to Pittsburgh for our combine, he performed very well and that helped us get over the top to take him. He’s an offensive player, he’s very slender, needs time to put on strength. But we’re excited to have him because he brings some offense.” -Pittsburgh Penguins.com, June 24, 2017
BRADY FERGUSON Position: LW Shot: L
HT: 6-0
WT: 194
Age: 22
How Acquired: Attending camp on a tryout contract
• • • • • • • •
Led Atlantic Hockey Conference in goals (24), points (58), points per game (0.63), power-play assists (21), power-play points (30), shorthanded goals (5) and game-winning goals (5) as a member of Robert Morris University in 2016-17. His 58 points in ‘16-17 ranked sixth in NCAA and marked the highest single-season point total in RMU history. His 24 goals and 34 assists ranked sixth and seventh in the nation, respectively, in ‘16-17. Led team with 57.7 faceoff percentage; ranked sixth in the Atlantic conference in ‘16-17. Paced Robert Morris to second straight Atlantic Hockey conference Championship berth, and third conference championship berth in four years. Skated two seasons with the Amarillo Bulls (NAHL); amassed 79 points (29G-50A) and a cumulative plus-40 over 114 games between 2012-14. Robert Morris coach Derek Schooley on Ferguson: “His compete level in the offensive zone is tremendous. He’s got a tremendous will...to hunt pucks. [He has] a hunt pucks mentality of putting pucks in, stripping pucks and making plays.” -Pittsburgh Hockey Digest, November 12, 2016 Former Robert Morris associate coach Matt Nicholson on Ferguson’s first impression: “He’s done a great job. We knew when we recruited him that he had the skillset to play in a top-nine or top-six (forward) role, but the thing we’ve been impressed with him is his play away from the puck. He’s also taking the puck to the net and using his size. We’re pleasantly suprised with the steps he’s taken early in his career.” -City of Champions Sports; Fansided.com, October 29, 2014
MASON JOBST Position: C
Shot: L
HT: 5-7
WT: 159
Age: 23
How Acquired: Attending camp on a tryout contract
• • • • • • • • •
The Ohio State product tied for the Big Ten lead in points (55); led Big Ten in assists (36), points per game (1.41) and power-play points (30) in 2016-17. Named to 2016-17 First Team All-Big Ten and selected to CCM Hockey All-American Second-Team in ‘16-17. Put up a team-high 19 multi-point games in ‘16-17 including five straight multi-point games in the last seven games of the season. Elected to 2016 Big Ten All-Freshman team and was Ohio State’s rookie of the year in 2016. Registered at least one point in 19 of the final 28 regular-season games in ‘15-16. Played four seasons with Muskegon Lumberjacks (USHL), serving as captain in last two. Limited to 11 games in final season at Muskegon (2014-15) due to injury; returned to put up three points (1G-2A) in Clark Cup Final. Finished second on Muskegon in scoring in 2013-14 with 45 points (10G-35A). Ohio State coach Steve Rohlik on Jobst’s competitiveness: “Everybody would look at him and say that he’s not a very big kid in stature. What we saw is a kid that competes all over the ice. He wants the puck. He’s not afraid to have the puck. He’s not afraid to go in tough areas. Sometimes guys get to the next level and they are afraid to make mistakes. Mason’s made mistakes, but he’s not afraid. Everyone that has coached him said, ‘Wow, you are going to get a heck of a player here.’” -The Lantern, January 25, 2016
ADAM JOHNSON Position: C
johnson Shot: L HT: 6-0
WT: 174
Age: 22
How Acquired: Attending camp on a tryout contract
• • • • • • • • •
Ranked second on Minnesota-Duluth with 18 goals, 37 points in 2016-17. Racked up 133 shots in ‘16-17, good for seventh in the NCHC. Finished fourth in shots on goal among NCHC freshmen with 95 in ‘15-16. Duluth’s top scoring freshman in ‘15-16, racking up 18 points (6G-12A) over 39 games. Named First-Team All-USHL in 2014-15 with the Sioux City Musketeers. Finished second in the USHL in points with 71 in 2014-15. Also finished third in USHL in both plus/minus (+25) and game-winning goals (7). Minnesota-Duluth coach Scott Sandelin on Johnson’s versatility: “I like him in the middle of the rink because he can control the game. He’s a guy that you want with the puck. He’s got some dynamics that are dangerous.” -Duluth News-Tribune, April 5, 2017 Minnesota-Duluth teammate Karson Kuhlman on Johnson’s progress at center: “He’s gotten better every day. He’s really worked on his positioning to the point where he is great at it. He’s got it down defensively. In the offensive zone, he lets his skill and speed take over. The change has been really good for him.” -Duluth News-Tribune, April 5, 2017
TROY JOSEPHS Position: RW Shot: L
HT: 6-1
WT: 184
Age: 23
How Acquired: Round 7 (209th overall) 2013 Draft
• Made his professional hockey debut with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins of the American Hockey League after signing an AHL contract for the 2017-18 season. • Led Clarkson with 20 goals, which were the most by a Golden Knight in seven years; 33 points placed second on the team in 2016-17. • Also led team in power-play goals and game-winning goals with seven and five markers, respectively in ‘16-17. • Notched a 21.5% shooting percentage in ‘16-17, good for 12th in the NCAA. • Named to the 2015 Three Rivers Classic All-Tournament team, scoring one goal at PPG Paints Arena. • Led Clarkson with a plus-7 in 2014-15 as a sophomore. • Put up 30 goals and 37 assists for 67 career points in 137 games in his four-year career at Clarkson. • Won the 2013 Ontario Junior Hockey League championship as a member of the St. Michael’s Buzzers. • Tied for sixth in points during OJHL 2013 playoffs, logging 20 points (7G-13A) in 24 playoff games. • Played for Canada East U19 team at the 2013 U19 WJAC tournament, posting two points (1G 1A) in five games. • Troy Josephs on his entrance into Wilkes-Barre and describing his game: “Coming here I wanted to make a physical presence with speed It’s something I took into account coming into the game - make sure I get my hits and make the smart play…[I’m] a two-way forward that works hard, plays 200 feet of the ice, is strong defensively and pitch in offensively when I can.” -Times-Leader, March 20, 2017
SAM LAFFERTY Position: LW Shot: R
HT: 6-1
WT: 184
Age: 22
How Acquired: Round 4 (113th overall) 2014 Draft
• • • • • • • • •
Grew up in Hollidaysburg, PA; 90 miles east of Pittsburgh. Led Brown University in points (35) and assists (22), and finished second in goals (13), in 2016-17. Named Brown University Team MVP, Third-Team All-ECAC and Second-Team All-Ivy in ‘16-17. Semifinalist for the Walter Brown Award in ‘16-17, presented annually to the best American-born college hockey player in New England. Ranked ninth in the ECAC with 1.13 points per game in ‘16-17. A two-sport athlete; member of Brown golf team in addition to hockey. Led Deerfield Academy with 55 points (21G-34A) in the 2013-14 season. Selected by the NEPSAC to the 2014 All New-England team. Brown coach Brendan Whittet on Lafferty’s style of play: “He has tremendous foot speed. There is no difference when he has the puck or when he doesn’t, which is rare. He never slows down. He has good hockey sense, plays hard and all around he has really raised his game. He has taken a big, big step for us this year.” -College Hockey News, January 31, 2017
AUSTIN LEMIEUX Position: RW Shot: R
HT: 6-3
WT: 170
Age: 21
How Acquired: Attending camp on a tryout contract
• • • • • • • •
Committed to play for Arizona State (NCAA-Independent) in 2017-18. Led Islanders (USPHL Premier) in assists (54) and points (74) in 2016-17. Notched 14 points in 57 games with the Omaha Lancers (USHL) in 2015-16. In 2014-15, his 37 points (14G-23A) in 31 games led the Pittsburgh Penguins Elite U18 team. Drafted in 2015 by Johnstown Tomahawks (NAHL) in the first round (9th overall). Son of Pittsburgh Penguins co-owner Mario Lemieux. Former Omaha Lancers coach Brian Kaufman on Lemieux’s development: “The way he thinks the game shows that Austin has a great mind that’s already at an elite level. He puts himself in good spots both on offense and defense…He’s come a long way. His work level and comitment to getting better has been very good. Puts in extra time in the weight room, he’s eating right and his game has continued to get better all year long.” -Omaha World-Herald, March 30, 2016 Austin Lemieux on learning from his dad: “Growing up he was my coach for many years, and I played on older teams when I was younger. Mostly I learned hockey from watching lots of NHL games and asking lots of questions of older people and of my dad, as well.” -Omaha World-Herald, March 30, 2016
DYLAN MALMQUIST Position: LW Shot: L
HT: 5-11
WT: 185
Age: 20
How Acquired: Attending camp on a tryout contract
• • • • • •
Ranked sixth on the Fighting Irish in scoring with 24 points in 2016-17. Was a 2015 finalist for Minnesota’s Mr. Hockey Award and was named Minnesota’s Associated Press Player of the Year. Registered a plus-2 as a member of the USA U-18 team at the 2013 Ivan Hlinka Memorial Cup. In 118 career games for Edina High School (Minnesota), scored 94 goals and added 120 assists for 214 points, making him Edina’s all-time career scoring leader. Father, Derek, played two seasons of college hockey at Harvard. Edina High School coach Curt Giles on Malmquist’s style of play: “He’s always at the front of the line, pushing himself. He always plays with speed, intensity and purpose.” - Star-Tribune, March 3, 2015
SAM MILETIC Position: C
Shot: L
HT: 6-1
WT: 187
Age: 20
How Acquired: Attending camp on a tryout contract
• • • • • • •
Led the London Knights and finished tied for 12th in the OHL with 37 goals in 2016-17. Has registered a combined 69 points (40G-29A) over 100 career games in the OHL over two seasons, both with London. Put up a team fourth-best 27 points (12G-15A) in 58 games with the Green Bay Gramblers (USHL) in 2014-15. Played in 2015 USHL/NHL Top Prospects game. Played at prestigious Cranbrook-Kingswood Upper School (Michigan) for three seasons, registering a combined 127 points (59G-68A) over 58 games (2.19 points per game). Previously committed to Michigan Wolverines (Big Ten) before electing to play Canadian junior hockey. Won Gold Medal at the Five Nations Tournament in 2013-14.
NIKITA PAVLYCHEV Position: C
Shot: L
HT: 6-7
WT: 200
Age: 20
How Acquired: Round 7 (197th overall) 2015 Draft
• Helped Penn State clinch the program’s first Big Ten tournament championship and NCAA tournament berth as a freshman in 2016-17. • Two shorthanded goals ranked second on the Nittany Lions in ‘16-17. • His 6-foot-7 height is tied for the second tallest among NCAA players; Would be third tallest player in NHL (courtesy: The Daily Collegian). • Put up 39 career points (15G-24A) in 104 career games with the Des Moines Buccaneers (USHL). • Averaged 1.24 points per game for the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Knights U16 team en route to an AYHL 16U National Championship in 2012-13. • Penn State coach Guy Gadowsky on Pavlychev: “The first thing you notice about Nikita is his size, but he is also very smart at both ends of the rink, is a tough competitor, and possesses very good hands for a big body.” -GoPSUSports.com
LINUS OLUND Position: C
Shot: L
HT: 5-11
WT: 185
Age: 20
How Acquired: Round 5 (155th overall) 2017 Draft
• • • • • • •
Registered 15 points (8G-7A) and a plus-9 in 39 games in his second season with Brynas IF (SHL) in 2016-17; also put up 10 points (6G-4A) in 20 playoff games as his team advanced to the SHL championship series. Served as captain of Brynas’ U20 club, finishing as team’s second-leading scorer with 34 points (18G-16A) in 27 games (1.26 points per game). Served as alternate captain for Sweden in the 2015 Under-18 World Junior Championship; collected five assists in five games. Has collected 36 points (9G-27A) in 63 career games playing with Team Sweden in various international tournaments. Made Swedish Hockey League debut at age 18 in 2015. Ranked 57th among European prospects by NHL Central Scouting. EliteProspects.com on Olund (2017): “Skilled two-way player that can be used on both special teams. Ölund has very good hockey sense and reads the game exceptionally well. Puck skills are fine and he has overall pretty good offensive skills.”
GAGE QUINNEY Position: LW Shot: L
HT: 6-0
WT: 201
Age: 21
How Acquired: Signed to minor-league contract
• • • • • •
Strong performance at 2016 rookie tournament in London, Ontario earned him a spot at the Penguins’ NHL training camp in 2016. Finished fourth on the Wheeling Nailers of the ECHL with 18 goals, and sixth with 44 points, in 2016-17. Averaged 0.98 points per game for Wheeling. Registered 119 points over 182 games across four seasons in the WHL (Prince Albert, Kelowna, Kamloops). Won a WHL Championship with Kelowna in 2015; averaging a point per game in the 2015 Memorial Cup tournament. Father, Ken, played 59 NHL games with the Quebec Nordiques. Wilkes-Barre/Scranton head coach Clark Donatelli on Quinney’s development at training camp: “[Quinney]’s learned to play with pace, which is big for us,” Donatelli said. “He’s an excellent puck handler. He put up a ton of points in junior… He seems to get it done.” -WBSPenguins.com, October 5, 2016
DANIEL SPRONG Position: RW Shot: R
HT: 6-0
WT: 180
Age: 20
How Acquired: Round 2 (46th overall) 2015 Draft
• Skated as a member of the Penguins’ ‘Black Ace’ practice squad during back-to-back Stanley Cup runs in each of the last two years. • Was one of the top offensive threats in Canadian junior hockey this past season once he made his season debut. Missed the beginning of the campaign due to offseason shoulder surgery. Named the QMJHL ‘Player of the Month’ in both February and March. • Led QMJHL with 1.90 points per game in 2016-17; averaged 1.31 points per game over four separate seasons with Charlottetown. • Had a seven-point game (4G-3A) against the Moncton Skaters on March 8, 2017; Also registered four four-point games in ‘16-17. • Led the QMJHL in power-play goals with seven during the 2017 playoffs. • Ranks second on all-time Charlottetown goal scoring list with 117 career goals. • Racked up a combined 117 goals, 144 assists and 261 points over four separate seasons with Charlottetown. • Made NHL debut with the Penguins on October 10, 2015; scored two goals in 18 games with the Pens in 2015-16. • Played in 2015 BMO CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game on Team Cherry. • Penguins assistant GM Bill Guerin on Sprong: “He’s had the luxury now of being around the NHL guys [during his rehabilitation] for quite some time and he sees how they act, how they carry themselves. He’s had an NHL shot since he was 17 years old. He’s a goal-scorer. He’s an extremely hungry guy to do that, so that’s not going to be an issue at all. There are some defensive shortcomings we’re going to have to work on, but that’s just like any other young player. The main thing is that Daniel has something you can’t teach, and that’s how to score
ANDREW STURTZ Position: RW Shot: R
HT: 5-8
WT: 185
Age: 22
How Acquired: Attending camp on a tryout contract
• Led the Nittany Lions in goals in both 2015-16 and ‘16-17. • His 22 goals this season tied a Penn State single season record; also tied for second in Big Ten in 2016-17. • Tied for first in the Big Ten with three shorthanded tallies in ‘16-17. • Finished second in Big Ten with 3.95 shots on goal per game in ‘16-17 behind Penn State teammate Vince Pedrie. • Scored five power-play goals in ‘16-17, finishing second on Penn State behind fellow Penguins prospect development camp attendee Chase Berger (6). • Helped Penn State clinch the program’s first Big Ten tournament championship and NCAA tournament berth in ‘16-17. • His 18 goals in 2015-16 were the fifth-highest among NCAA freshmen. • Spent two seasons (2013-15) with the Carleton Place Canadians (CCHL); Led the CCHL with 104 points (51G-53A) in 58 games in 2013-14. • Ranks eleventh all time in points in the CCHL with 176, first among American-born players. • Penn State coach Guy Gadowsky on Sturtz’s tenacity: “He’s a bull. He’s going to get his points because he’s hungry and he’s a gritty guy. There’s guys that you don’t want to check when they have the puck and there’s guys that you do. He’s someone you don’t want to check.” -Daily Collegian, October 26, 2015
FREDDIE TIFFELS Position: LW Shot: L
HT: 6-0
WT: 192
Age: 22
How Acquired: Round 6 (167th overall) 2015 Draft
• Signed two-year entry-level deal with the Penguins, beginning with the 2017-18 season, in late June. • Scored twice in eight games for Team Germany at the 2017 World Championship. • His 12 assists and 21 points in 2016-17 were career highs with Western Michigan. He ranked sixth on the club with 82 shots. • Western Michigan’s rookie of the year as a freshman. • At the international level, has represented Germany in three World Junior Championships (2013-15) and two Under-18 World Junior Championships (2011-12). • Played for three USHL teams in 44 days in 2013-14, putting up 13 goals and 50 points in 56 games that season. • Team Germany head coach Marco Sturm on Tiffels making a surprise splash at World Championships: “Freddie is giving us more than we had expected. Some of the others could learn a thing or two from him. He always goes all out.” -Deutsche Welle, May 9, 2017 • Team Germany teammate Christian Ehrhoff on Tiffels at World Championships: “Freddie is an important part of our team. He has the sort of speed that hardly any of the rest of us has.” -Deutsche Welle, May 9, 2017
NOLAN VOLCAN Position: LW Shot: L
HT: 5-9
WT: 194
Age: 18
How Acquired: Attending camp on a tryout contract
• • • • •
Helped the Seattle Thunderbirds of the Western Hockey League win the WHL championship by compiling 44 points (16G-28A) in 2016-17; also registered seven points (5G-2A) in 20 playoff games. Compiled 98 points (41G-57A) in 127 games over four seasons with Seattle. Skated for Canada Black U17 team at the 2017 World Hockey Championships, notching three points (1G-2A) in five contests. Won Western Canada Challenge Cup Gold Medal in 2013-14. Seattle Thunderbirds coach Steve Konowalchuk on Volcan: “His speed is up another notch, and that is helping him get time and space...He’s built like a brick wall. Guys think because of his size that they can hit him. He might be short, but they just bounce off of him. Plus his compete level and competitiveness are off the charts.” -The Seattle Times, September 24, 2015.
NICLAS ALMARI Position: D
Shot: L
HT: 6-1
WT: 167
Age: 19
How Acquired: Round 5 (151st overall) 2016 Draft
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Came to North America at the end of the 2016-17 season to spend a few weeks practicing with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins of the American Hockey League. Made his debut in Finland’s top professional league with HPK in ‘16-17. Talllied 12 points (4G-8A) in 44 games playing for the Espoo Blues U18 in Jr. B SM-Sarja and Blues U20 & Jokerit U20 in Jr. SM-Liiga in 2015-16. European Youth Olympic Festival bronze medal winner with Finland’s U17 team in 2014-15. Captained the Blues U16 team to a Jr. C SM-Sarja Championship in ‘13-14. Elected to Jr. SM-Sarja All-Star team in 2013-14. Former Penguins director of amateur scouting Randy Sexton on Almari: “He’s an excellent skater, he’s real smooth-skating, puck-moving transitional type D-man. Don’t know if he’ll ever play on our power play, maybe in a secondary nature. But certainly a mobile puck-moving, transitional type D-man.” -PittsburghPenguins.com, June 25, 2016
DANE BIRKS Position: D
Shot: R
HT: 6-2
WT: 183
Age: 21
How Acquired: Round 6 (164th overall) 2013 Draft
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The sophomore blueliner ranked second on Michigan Tech with a plus-12 in 2016-17, and he sat second on the club with 43 blocked shots. Only defenseman on Michigan Tech to register a shorthanded goal in ‘16-17. Put up 41 points in 102 games (9G, 32A) over two seasons with the Merritt Centennials (BCHL). Won U19 Junior-A Challenge bronze medal in 2013-14. Tied for first among Canada West defensemen in total points (2A) at the Junior-A Challenge. Logged two-plus years of action in the British Columbia Hockey League with Merritt and Trail between 2012-14 before joining the college ranks. Birks on his leadership with Michigan Tech: “I want to be that top guy that coaches can rely on. I want to be a leader and for people to look up to me.” -Pittsburgh Sporting News, July 14, 2015
CONNOR HALL Position: D
Shot: L
HT: 6-3
WT: 190
Age: 19
How Acquired: Round 3 (77th overall) 2016 Draft
• Missed most of 2016-17 season with Kitchener due to shoulder surgery in December; Missed most of 2015-16 season with Kitchener due to broken jaw. • Notched five points (1G-4A) in nine games in the 2016 OHL playoffs. • Member of Team Canada’s U18 WJC team in ‘15-16. • Penguins’ assistant GM Bill Guerin on Hall: “A good, steady defensive defenseman who is very hard to play against. He has a lot of sandpaper to his game. He has the ability to make a good first pass, moves the puck up to the forwards quickly. He’s not a jump-into-the-play-type of guy; he’s not like a [Trevor] Daley, who’s all over the ice and a smooth skater, but he has the ability to make a play when he has to. He’s kind of like an old-school defenseman, but I don’t want to undersell his talent level.” -Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, December 26, 2016 • Kitchener Rangers coach and former Penguins defenseman Jay McKee on Hall’s throwback style of play: “He’s one of those guys where it’s almost like you went back in time and pulled him out of the late 80s. He’s got a real edge to his game. He’s a guy that loves to play the body, has a real physical edge, he’s a great
RYAN JONES Position: D
Shot: L
HT: 6-2
WT: 186
Age: 21
How Acquired: Round 4 (121st overall) 2016 Draft
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Scored his first goal in his collegiate debut for Nebraska-Omaha on October 14, 2016 vs. Alaska-Anchorage. Finished second on Nebraska-Omaha in blocked shots with 57 in 2016-17. Led Nebraska-Omaha with 52 penalty minutes in ‘16-17. Finished second among Lincoln (USHL) defensemen in scoring with 30 points (3G-27A) in 60 games in 2015-16; also accrued 112 penalty minutes in ‘15-16. Notched seven goals, 36 assists (43 points) and 181 penalty minutes over 120 career games with Lincoln (USHL). Former Penguins director of amateur scouting Randy Sexton on Jones: “He’s extremely mobile like [fellow draftee Connor] Hall and plays with a real edge.” -Pittsburgh Penguins.com, June 25, 2016
ZACHARY LAUZON Position: D
Shot: L
HT: 6-0
WT: 187
Age: 18
How Acquired: Round 2 (51st overall) 2017 Draft
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Was the Penguins’ top draft pick in 2017. First time the Pens chose a D-man with their first pick since Derrick Pouliot eighth overall in 2012. Earned Kevin Lowe Trophy as the best defensive defenseman in the QMJHL in 2016-17; the youngest defenseman to ever win the award (Past recipient: Kris Letang, 2007). His 21 points (3G-18A) were fourth among Rouyn-Noranda defensemen in ‘16-17. Member of Rouyn-Noranda Huskies squad that won the 2015-16 QMJHL championship and earned a spot in the Memorial Cup tournament. Named to QMJHL’s All-Rookie team in 2015-16. Amassed 34 points (4G-30A) in 135 games across four seasons in the QMJHL, all with Rouyn-Noranda. Collected eight points (3G-5A) over 29 career QMJHL playoff games. Also played in four Memorial Cup games in the 2016 tournament. Brother, Jeremy, drafted by the Boston Bruins in 2015 NHL Draft (52nd overall). The duo has been teammates with Rouyn-Noranda since 2014-15. Former Penguins director of Amateur Scouting Randy Sexton on Lauzon: “We like defensemen who are mobile, have great vision and can move the puck. Obviously, defending is important, and Zach fits that bill. He’s a tremendous skater, has great vision and he moves the puck well....Highly competitive. He’ll fit right in in Pittsburgh.” -PittsburghPenguins.com, June 24, 2017
JOSEPH MASONIUS Position: D
Shot: L
HT: 6-0
WT: 190
Age: 20
How Acquired: Round 6 (181st overall) 2016 Draft
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Tied for second on the UConn Huskies with six power-play assists in 2016-17; third in power-play points with seven. Finished fourth on Huskies in scoring with 21 points (6G-15A) in 2015-16 as a freshman. Led all UConn defensemen in scoring as a freshman in ‘15-16; five multi-point games that year. Was teammates with Penguins prospect Ryan Segalla at UConn. Member of US National Team Development Program; Played 65 games, scoring six goals and 23 assists (29 points) for US National U18 team. Helped lead Team USA to gold at Under-18 World Junior Championship in Switzerland. Won EJHL Championship with the New Jersey Hitmen in 2013. Has nine siblings. Penguins director of amateur scouting Randy Sexton on Masonius: “Extremely mobile... His puck skills are fine. And he also plays with some bite. When he got to Hockey East in UConn this year he had the opportunity to play a more prominent role and play with a lot of confidence and was really their go-to guy on the back end as a freshman.” -PittsburghPenguins.com, June 25, 2016
BOBBY NARDELLA Position: D
Shot: L
HT: 5-9
WT: 174
Age: 21
How Acquired: Attending camp on a tryout contract
• Made a Frozen Four appearance with Notre Dame in 2016-17. • Finished sixth on the Fighting Irish and second among Irish defensemen with 84 shots in ‘16-17. • Named to Hockey East All-Rookie team in 2015-16; selected as Notre Dame’s Rookie of the Year. • Tied for fifth on the Fighting Irish with 24 points in ‘15-16. • Ranked 13th nationally in points per game (0.69) among defensemen and fourth among freshmen defensemen in ‘15-16. • Teammates at Notre Dame with Penguins prospect Thomas Di Pauli. • Registered 42 points in 56 games in 2014-15 with Tri-City Storm (USHL), good for best among team’s defensemen and third among USHL defensemen. • Member of Team USA at the 2014-15 World Junior A Challenge (WJAC-19); won gold in Kindersley, Saskatchewan. • Played for Team USA in the 2013 Ivan Hlinka Tournament held in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. • In August of 2012, he was a member of USA Hockey’s 5-0-0 Under-17 team that won gold medal at the Five Nations Tournament in the Czech Republic. • Nardella’s father, Bob, won three championships in nine seasons playing with the Chicago Wolves (AHL), and played for Team Italy in two Olympic Games.
ANTTI PALOJARVI Position: D
Shot: L
HT: 6-1
WT: 176
Age: 18
How Acquired: Round 6 (186th overall) 2017 Draft
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Was one of four defensemen selected by the Penguins in the 2017 NHL Draft. Spent the majority of 2016-17 with Lukko of Jr. A SM-Liiga (U20), amassing 11 points (1G-10A) and 14 penalty minutes over 47 games. Member of Lukko’s Jr. A SM-Liiga Bronze Medal-winning squad in ‘16-17. Notched a goal and an assist and a plus-2 over eight playoff games with Lukko in ‘16-17. Put up 39 points (13G-26A) and 136 penalty minutes over 93 games between Lukko and KooKoo of the Jr. B SM-Sarja (U18). Played a combined 12 games with Finland’s U18 and U20 national teams in ‘16-17, putting up three points (2G-1A) and eight penalty minutes. Penguins head European scout Patrik Allvin on Palojarvi: “Antti’s more of a puck-moving defenseman, probably needs a couple of extra years. I think he’s in a good situation up in Lukko in northern Finland there. Was on the national team a little bit, but obviously the Finns have a very strong D corps. So it will be tough for him to get on the World Junior team next year, but I think he’s still in the mix there. I would definitely say a little bit of a longer-term prospect.” -PittsburghPenguins.com, June 24, 2017
CLAYTON PHILLIPS Position: D
Shot: L
HT: 5-11
WT: 174
Age: 17
How Acquired: Round 3 (93rd overall) 2017 Draft
• Named to USHL All-Rookie team in 2016-17. • Put up 20 points (7G-13A) over 56 games in his first full season with the Fargo Force (USHL) in ‘16-17. • His seven goals and 20 points were first and second among Fargo defensemen, respectively, in ‘16-17. • Played nine games with Team USA’s U18 and U19 teams in the Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament and World Junior-A Challenge in 2016. • Ranked 72nd overall among all prospects by The Hockey News; ranked 99th North American prospect by NHL Central Scouting. • Committed to play for University of Minnesota (Big Ten), beginning in 2018-19; recruited by Gophers’ associate coach Mike Guentzel (father of Jake Guentzel). • Played two seasons at Edina High in Minnesota prior to joining Fargo; notched 27 points (6G-21A) over 50 career games. • Teammates at Edina with fellow Penguins’ Prospect Development Camp attendee Dylan Malmquist in 2014- 15. • Former Penguins director of amateur scouting Randy Sexton on Phillips: “Clayton has some offense to his game. Highly mobile. He can really skate. He’s got terrific vision. A really solid puck mover.” -PittsburghPenguins.com, June 24, 2017
WILLIAM REILLY Position: D
Shot: R
HT: 6-3
WT: 196
Age: 19
How Acquired: Round 7 (217th overall) 2017 Draft
• Notched 15 points (2G-13A) and 68 penalty minutes in 35 games with RPI in 2016-17. • His 13 assists were second among RPI defensemen in ‘16-17. • Teammates with fellow Penguins Prospect Development Camp attendee Riley Bourbonnais at RPI. • Played for the Nanaimo Clippers in 2015-16; finished second among team defensemen in scoring with 32 points (9G-23A). • Put up an additional three points (2G-1A) and 16 penalty minutes over 14 playoff games with Nanaimo in ‘15-16. • Led North York defensemen in scoring with 35 points (17G-18A) over 47 games in 2014-15. • Awarded OJHL’s First Team All-Prospect and OJHL’s Top Prospect Award honors in ‘14-15. • Former Penguins director of amateur scouting Randy Sexton on Reilly: “William Reilly is an offensive defenseman, has good size, he skates well. He moves the puck and he can really shoot the puck. He ran the No. 1 power play in college hockey this year at RPI. We have some hope for him as a puck-moving, offensive defenseman.” -PittsburghPenguins.com, June 24, 2017.
JEFF TAYLOR Position: D
Shot: L
HT: 5-11
WT: 181
Age: 23
How Acquired: Round 7 (203rd overall) 2014 Draft
• Turned pro with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins following his senior year at Union College. • Led all Union defensemen and finished second among ECAC defensemen in scoring with 33 points (9G-24A) in 2016-17. • Tied for most game-winning goals in ECAC with four in ‘16-17 and led all ECAC defensemen with 31 points (4G-27A) in 2014-15. • Named Second-Team All-ECAC in ‘16-17. • Ranked fifth in NCAA defenseman in points per game (0.91) in 2014-15. • Won NCAA National Championship in 2014 with Union College. • Named to 2014 ECAC All-Rookie team. • Member of the 2013 Clark Cup Champion Dubuque Fighting Saints (USHL). • Penguins’ assistant GM Bill Guerin on Taylor: “This is a kid we’ve been looking forward to getting since we drafted him. I remember his first development camp, everybody was like, ‘Oh, wow, look at this kid. He can move the puck, he can skate, he’s quick. He thinks the game well.’ And it hasn’t stopped. He’s an undersized guy, but he has the ability to get himself out of trouble because he’s got great feet and he thinks the game well. He’s having a good year, production-wise, because he’s developed a better shot and is more willing to use it.” -Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, December 26, 2016 • Union coach Rick Bennett on Taylor’s signing with the Penguins: “Our staff is very proud and excited to see Jeff move on to the next phase of his hockey career. It was fun to work with Jeff throughout his four years and to watch his development as he transitioned into one of the best defensemen in the country.” -Daily Gazette, March 27, 2017
DYLAN ZINK Position: D
Shot: L
HT: 6-0
WT: 181
Age: 24
How Acquired: Signed to an AHL contract
• Signed an AHL contract with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins and made his professional debut with WBS near the end of the 2016-17 campaign following a successful senior season at UMass-Lowell. • Named to Second-Team CCM Hockey All-American Team in ‘16-17. • Tied for second among NCAA defensemen with 10 goals, and tied for third with 36 points as a senior. He finished fifth among NCAA defensemen with a 0.88 points per game average. • Tied for fourth among NCAA defensemen with 11 goals in 2015-16. • Scored winning goal in the “Friendship Four” Championship, securing UMass-Lowell’s first-ever Belpot Trophy. • Played with current Penguin Scott Wilson at UMass-Lowell in 2013-14. • UMass-Lowell head coach Norm Bazin on Zink: “He’s a special player. We like to think he’s the best offensive defenseman in the league. We feel he gives us an edge when he’s out there.” -Lowell Sun, February 16, 2017 • UMass-Lowell head coach Norm Bazin on Zink and teammate Michael Kapla’s styles of play: “I would say they are true new generation defensemen. They are the guys that can move the puck up the ice consistently and have an offensive flair and they both have a chance to play for a long time. That trend has been developing for the last five or six years. In the NHL there is a premium on puck-moving defensemen that can add to the offense, and these guys certainly fit that mode.” -New Hampshire Union Leader, March 24, 2017
ALEX D’ORIO Position: G
Catches: R
HT: 6-2
WT: 198
Age: 18
How Acquired: Attending camp on a tryout contract
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Appeared in 28 games in 2016-17 with the Saint John Sea Dogs (QMJHL), registering a 2.40 GAA and .903 SVP, along with a 19-2-1 record. Member of Saint John Sea Dogs’ 2017 QMJHL Championship team, and he saw action in one game for the club during the Memorial Cup tournament. Played for Team Canada-Black at 2015-16 U17 World Hockey Championships, putting up a 2.90 GAA and .895 SVP in two appearances. Ranked 13th prospect in North America by NHL Central Scouting. Selected by the Sea Dogs in the first round (ninth overall) of the 2015 Quebec Major Junior Hockey League Entry Draft.
FILIP GUSTAVSSON Position: G
Catches: L
HT: 6-2
WT: 184
Age: 19
How Acquired: Round 2 (55th overall) 2016 Draft
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Signed his three-year entry-level contract with Pittsburgh this spring. Deal will kick in when he comes to North America. Slated to stay in Sweden for one more year next season. Suited up for Sweden at the 2017 World Junior Championship. Posted a .912 SVP and 2.70 GAA in 15 games in 2016-17 with Lulea HF in Sweden’s top hockey league. Named the top rated European goaltender according to NHL Central Scouting in 2016 and was ranked as the 46th best prospect (2nd among goalies) in 2016 Red Line Report. Logged 2.17 GAA and a .910 SVP in his SHL action in 2015-16. Won a silver medal with Sweden and awarded Best Goaltender honors at the 2016 Under-18 World Junior Championship. Won Hlinka Memorial Tournament silver medal with Sweden in 2016, posting a 2.11 GAA and a .930 SVP. Won a bronze medal at the 2015 U17 World Hockey Championship; posting a tournment-best save percentage (.924).
SEAN MAGUIRE Position: G
Catches: L
HT: 6-2
WT: 202
Age: 24
How Acquired: Round 4 (113th overall) 2012 Draft
• Skated with the Penguins as a member of the ‘Black Aces’ practice squad during the club’s run to the 2017 Stanley Cup championship. Traveled with the club as the third goalie, but didn’t dress, during Matt Murray’s injury. • Named ECHL Goalie of the Month and Warrior Hockey Goalie of the Month in January 2017. • Made his professional debut with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins at the conclusion of the 2015-16 season following his senior campaign with Boston University. • Six-time Hockey East Top Performer of the Week in ‘15-16 season with Boston University. • Named Beanpot Tournament MVP with a 41-save performance in 1-0 loss to Boston College in 2016. • Earned the Eberly Award for best save percentage in both Beanpot games during the 2015-16 season. • Named Hockey East Top Performer of the Week four times as a freshman and once as a sophomore. • Sat out 2014-15 season with Boston University as a medical redshirt. • Collected his first collegiate shutout in his home debut with Boston University. Stopped 21 shots in a 4-0 win over St. Lawrence on November 24, 2012. • Selected to 2012 BCHL Second All-Star Team with the Powell River Kings.
DANNY TIRONE Position: G
Catches: R
HT: 5-11
WT: 174
Age: 23
How Acquired: Attending camp on a tryout contract
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Named an alternate captain for New Hampshire heading into the 2017-18 season, a rare honor for a goalie. Given the team’s Charles E. Holt Coaches’ Award in 2017, dedicated “to the player that makes large contributions to the team, both on and off the ice.” Notched a career-high three shutouts in 2016-17, his second season as the club’s top netminder. Inducted into Alpha Chi Sigma, the National Collegiate Athletic Honor Society in 2017. Voted Hockey East Goaltender of the Month in March 2015 thanks to a 1.44 GAA and .950 SVP in that month. Spent the first half of the 2014-15 season with the Boston Junior Bruins (USPHL); recorded a 14-4-2 record with a 2.24 goals against average and a .929 save percentage. Played 44 games in 2013-14 with Cedar Rapids (USHL), putting up a 2.63 goals against average and a .917 save percentage and two shutouts on 1,221 saves. Selected as a ‘13-14 USHL First Team All-Star. Played at the Shattuck St. Mary’s high school prep program that produced Penguins captain Sidney Crosby. New Hampshire coach Dick Umile on Tirone’s off-ice habits: “He’s a very self-disciplined kid. He trains hard and takes care of his body. Academically he does very well. He’s a solid all around, hard-working, committed, disciplined individual.” -Fosters.com, March 9, 2017