From St. Paul to Pittsburgh: Tommy Novak’s Journey
Tommy Novak, a 27-year-old forward from St. Paul, Minnesota, has finally found his way to the Pittsburgh Penguins, marking a significant milestone in his hockey career. Drafted in the third round (85th overall) by the Nashville Predators in 2015, Novak has been a consistent performer at both the NHL and AHL levels. His trade to the Penguins at the deadline not only reunites him with former teammate Philip Tomasino but also brings a seasoned player to a team vying for a championship. Novak made his Penguins debut on Friday against the Vegas Golden Knights, skating in his 202nd NHL game. Over his career, he has accumulated 49 goals and 68 assists for 117 points, while in the AHL, he has 37 goals, 98 assists, and 135 points in 157 games.
Early Success: From Tournaments to College
Novak’s hockey journey began with early success on the international stage. In 2014, he participated in the Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament, now known as the Hlinka Gretzky Cup. Novak’s performance was nothing short of stellar, as he helped the United States secure a Bronze Medal. He led the tournament in assists with six and points with 11, earning him the USHL All-Rookie Second Team honors. This early recognition was a clear sign of his potential and set the stage for his future endeavors.
College Years: A Star at the University of Minnesota
After two successful seasons in the USHL, Novak took his talents to the University of Minnesota. During his college career, he played in 129 games and tallied 18 goals and 88 points. His most impressive season came in 2016 when he scored six goals and 27 points in 37 games. Novak’s contributions were instrumental in helping his school win back-to-back NCAA (B1G) regular season championships in 2016 and 2017. His on-ice performance and leadership were crucial in these achievements, cementing his reputation as a versatile and reliable forward.
NHL Career: Consistency and Progress
Novak’s transition to the professional level has been marked by consistency and steady progress. He has played at least three games against every NHL team, showcasing his adaptability and skill. However, he is still searching for his first goal against the Carolina Hurricanes, New York Islanders, New York Rangers, Ottawa Senators, Philadelphia Flyers, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Toronto Maple Leafs. Despite these challenges, Novak has maintained a positive attitude and continues to work on his game. His best statistics against any NHL opponent are against the San Jose Sharks, where he has scored six goals and five assists for 11 points in seven games. This highlights his ability to perform at a high level in key matchups.
The Trade to Pittsburgh: A New Chapter
The trade to the Penguins represents a new chapter in Novak’s career. The decision to bring him in was strategic, as his experience and skill set complement the Penguins’ roster. Novak’s ability to play in various roles, whether on the power play or in a defensive capacity, makes him a valuable asset. Reuniting with Philip Tomasino, a familiar face from his time with the Predators, adds an extra layer of comfort and familiarity. Novak’s presence in the locker room and on the ice is expected to enhance the team’s chemistry and competitiveness.
Looking Forward: Goals and Aspirations
As Novak settles into his new role with the Penguins, he has several goals and aspirations on his mind. One of his primary aims is to score his first goal against the Pittsburgh Penguins, a moment that would be particularly sweet given his new team. Additionally, he is determined to earn his first point against the New York Rangers, the only NHL club against which he has not recorded a goal or assist. Novak’s focus on these personal milestones reflects his competitive spirit and drive to improve. With the Penguins’ strong organization and supportive environment, Novak is poised to continue his upward trajectory and make significant contributions to the team’s success.
