The Pittsburgh Penguins' forward depth chart is a fascinating puzzle, and one of the most intriguing pieces is Filip Hallander. Hallander's journey to the NHL has been a rollercoaster, marked by trades, injuries, and a blood clot that sidelined him for most of the previous season. Despite these setbacks, he's back in the fold with a two-year, $1.55MM contract, and the question on everyone's mind is: what do the Penguins have in Hallander?
A Strange Career Arc
Filip Hallander's career has been a whirlwind. Drafted 58th overall in 2018, he was once considered a key part of the Penguins' future. However, a series of trades and setbacks have left him in a unique position. After being traded for Kasperi Kapanen and then reacquired, Hallander was sent to Sweden for two seasons, where he averaged over a point per game in the SHL. This resurgence in Sweden brought him back to Pittsburgh, but the blood clot interrupted his progress.
NHL Potential?
The challenge with Hallander's NHL prospects is the small sample size. Just 13 games in the previous season don't provide a comprehensive picture. While his SHL success is impressive, it's not a guarantee of NHL success. The Penguins have a logjam of forward depth, with players like Connor Dewar, Blake Lizotte, and Elmer Soderblom already securing spots. Hallander will need to prove himself against tougher competition.
The AHL Conundrum
The Penguins could stash Hallander in the AHL, but his age and professional experience make this a tricky move. He needs waivers to be assigned to the AHL, and the uncertainty around him means a team might claim him. This could work in Hallander's favor, as it gives him a chance to compete for a roster spot. His two-way play, offensive skill, and skating make him a strong candidate for a fourth-line role.
The Wild Card Factor
Hallander's SHL success is noteworthy, with 26 goals and 27 assists in 51 games. This performance puts him in a unique position, as it's not a guarantee of NHL success, but it's a strong contender. With modest SHL and AHL success, along with a successful NHL audition, Hallander is a wild card who could make a significant impact. His ability to create a trade chip or an inexpensive depth option is a bonus for the Penguins.
The Defense Connection
The Penguins' need for help on the left side of their defense could be a key factor in Hallander's future. If he can bump someone out of a job, like Justin Brazeau, it creates an additional trade chip. This scenario adds an intriguing layer to the narrative, as Hallander's success or failure could impact the team's roster moves.
In conclusion, Filip Hallander's journey is a fascinating one, and his potential impact on the Penguins' forward depth chart is significant. Whether he succeeds or fails, his story will be a compelling one to follow as the season unfolds.
