The Pittsburgh Penguins have secured the future of several of their emerging talents by reaching agreements with four restricted free agents, a move that sidesteps arbitration and solidifies the roster ahead of the upcoming season.
Forward Egor Chinakhov, who arrived from the Columbus Blue Jackets and posted 18 goals and 18 assists in 41 games, agreed to a three‑year contract worth $6.25 million. Center David Gustafsson, who recorded 10 goals, 22 assists and 32 points in 48 games for the Manitoba Moose, signed a deal that guarantees an average NHL salary of $850,000.
Contract details and player backgrounds
Goaltender Arturs Silovs, the Latvian net‑minder who posted a .888 save percentage during the regular season and a .939 mark in the playoffs, signed a one‑year contract valued at $2.8 million. Finnish goaltender Joel Blomqvist also received a two‑year agreement with an average annual value of $875,000 after a strong AHL showing that included a 16‑5‑6 record, a 2.40 goals‑against average and a .913 save percentage.
General manager Kyle Dubas said the signings reflect the organization’s intent to reward players who have demonstrated growth and reliability while maintaining flexibility under the salary cap as the team navigates the upcoming free‑agency period.
These moves come as the Penguins look to build on a promising recent stretch, integrating fresh talent alongside veteran stability. The front office hopes the new contracts will help the club contend for a deep playoff run in the coming months.