The Pittsburgh Penguins announced Tuesday that they have reached a two‑year agreement with forward Hendrix Lapierre, locking him in at an average of $1.3 million per season through the 2027‑28 campaign.
A Strategic Addition for the Future
Lapierre, a 24‑year‑old native of Canada, spent the previous season with the Washington Capitals, appearing in 74 games and contributing 16 points, while also logging time with the Hershey Bears, the Capitals’ AHL affiliate, where he captured two Calder Cup titles and earned Playoff MVP honors in 2024.
The deal marks the culmination of a five‑year trajectory that began when the Capitals drafted Lapierre 22nd overall in the 2020 NHL Draft, a move that set the stage for his rapid ascent through the organization’s developmental pipeline.
In 158 NHL appearances to date, Lapierre has accumulated 47 points, with his most productive season coming in 2023‑24 when he posted a career‑high 22 points, underscoring his growth as a reliable two‑way forward.
Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas praised the signing, noting that Lapierre’s blend of skill, work ethic, and playoff experience aligns perfectly with the club’s vision for sustained competitiveness.
Head coach Todd Nelson added that the forward’s familiarity with the organization’s culture will help maintain continuity as the team looks to build on recent successes.
The contract not only secures a key piece of the roster but also signals the Penguins’ intent to blend youthful talent with veteran leadership as they aim for a deep run in the upcoming playoffs.
Fans in Pittsburgh and across the hockey community have responded enthusiastically, anticipating that Lapierre’s dynamic play will add a new dimension to the team’s offensive schemes.