Penguins
Penguins Prospect Bjorkqvist Signs in Finland
The list of minor-leaguers who could challenge for a spot on the Pittsburgh Penguins’ roster in 2022-23 shrank Tuesday.
Winger Kasper Bjorkqvist, their second-round draft choice in 2016, signed a two-year contract with Karpat Oulu in Liiga, Finland’s top league.
He is a native of Espoo, Finland.
Bjorkqvist played in six games with the Penguins in 2021-22, scoring one goal. He appeared in 65 games with their farm team in Wilkes-Barre over the past three seasons, putting up 10 goals and four assists.
Those totals included eight goals and four assists in 54 American Hockey League games during the past season.
In a meeting with reporters following the Penguins’ elimination from the Stanley Cup playoffs, GM Ron Hextall cited him as one of the prospects who could contend for a job with the parent club this fall.
Bjorkqvist is 6-1, 198 pounds and played three seasons at Providence College before signing with the Penguins.
The Pittsburgh Penguins can retain his NHL rights by giving Bjorkqvist, who was a restricted free agent, a qualifying offer. There was no immediate word on whether they plan to do so.
Dan’s Daily: MacKinnon Will be PAID, Kadri Odds, Penguins Structure
DraftKings Kansas Pre-Registration: Get $100, Chance at $100K Free Bet
Barstool Sportsbook Promo Code Offers Top Bonuses for Month of August
Molinari: Building Up Penguins’ Infrastructure is Wise Investment
PHN Blog: Comparing Bergeron & Malkin Contracts, Penguins Have Options
Penguins Two Truths and a Lie: Moving Salary & Making the Playoffs
Dan’s Daily: Kane Trade Speculation, Penguins Catchup
Sizing Up Potential Penguins Trade Partners: 4 Teams With Cap Space
Sidney Crosby Turns 35; What Can We Expect If He Acts His Age?
That’s disappointing, but if he doesn’t want to be here, it’s better to make that clear and do what he thinks best for himself. Just opens more competition for other prospects hoping to play in the NHL.
Bjorkqvist probably would have gotten a look at training camp (assuming he had re-signed), but I think he was far from a lock to be on the Penguins’ Opening Night roster.
I believe you are right. He had some good games at the NHL level, and seemed like a good teammate. I suppose the search continues for those younger players whose contributions and affordable contracts make having players like Letang and Malkin possible.
He was always hurt. It seems that he was motivated more in the weight room than on the ice. But I really never saw him play much.