Penguins Ink Blue Line Prospects
The Penguins have signed a pair of defensemen, both former draft picks, during the past couple of days.
Yesterday they signed 23-year-old Daniel Laatsch, a 6’5” 190-pound, left-shot defenseman taken in the seventh round (215th overall) under Ron Hextall in 2021, to a two-year, entry-level contract.
Judging by his stats, the rangy blueliner and assistant captain with Wisconsin employs a stay-at-home style. With only 18 penalty minutes spread over four seasons, physical play—like offense—would not appear to be his forte.
That stands in stark contrast to 21-year-old Chase Pietila, signed to a three-year, entry-level deal on Sunday. Drafted in the fourth round last summer (111th overall), the rugged 6’3” 195-pound, right-shot defenseman plays with a pronounced edge. With his dark hair, mustache and goatee and he even looks the part of a swashbuckler.
Pietila’s also displayed some offensive chops to go with the snarl, tallying seven goals and 22 points in 36 games for Michigan Tech.
Needless to say, I’m excited to have him in the fold. Right-side defensemen who employ a physical style don’t grow on trees, especially in these parts.
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