Pittsburgh Penguins Reward Defensive Prospect with Entry Level Contract
On a significant day for the Pittsburgh Penguins’ future, President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Kyle Dubas announced that the team has signed right defensive prospect Finn Harding to a three-year, entry-level contract. This move underscores the Penguins’ commitment to nurturing young talent and their belief in Harding’s potential to contribute to the NHL roster in the coming years.
Harding’s Journey to the Penguins
Finn Harding, a 6-foot-2, 192-pound right defenseman, has had a unique journey to this moment. He was selected in the seventh round (223rd overall) of the 2024 NHL Draft by the Penguins, marking a remarkable comeback as he was a re-draft after not being chosen in the 2023 NHL Draft. Despite this initial setback, Harding’s persistence and development did not go unnoticed, and the Penguins saw the value in giving him another chance.
Impressive Performance with the Brampton Steelheads
Currently playing for the Brampton Steelheads in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), Harding has been a standout performer. In the 2024-25 season alone, he has registered seven goals and 55 points in 59 games played, placing him fifth among league defensemen. His consistent offensive contributions and solid defensive play have made him a key player for the Steelheads. Overall, Harding has 19 goals and 99 points in 190 games for the team, maintaining a impressive plus-90 rating, which reflects his ability to effectively control the game on both ends of the ice.
Harding’s Potential and Skills
Finn Harding is not just a statistical standout; he is a well-rounded defenseman with a blend of offensive flair and defensive stability. His size and physical presence allow him to be effective in one-on-one battles and in the corners, while his skating ability and puck-handling skills make him a formidable offensive weapon. Harding’s vision on the ice is another strong asset, enabling him to create scoring opportunities for his teammates and navigate through tight spaces with ease. The Penguins believe that these qualities, combined with his work ethic and determination, will serve him well as he transitions to the professional level.
The Penguins’ Prospect Development Program
The Penguins have a robust prospect development program that has historically produced top-tier talent for their NHL roster. By signing players like Finn Harding to entry-level contracts, the team ensures that they have a pipeline of young, skilled players ready to step in and contribute. The organization’s focus on developing players through their minor league affiliates, such as the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins in the American Hockey League (AHL), has been a key factor in their success. Harding will likely continue his development with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, where he can gain valuable experience and further refine his game.
Looking Ahead
As the Penguins continue to build for the future, Finn Harding’s signing represents a promising step in that direction. The team’s faith in his abilities and potential is a testament to his hard work and the progress he has made. Harding’s journey from being a re-draft to securing an NHL contract is an inspiring story that highlights the importance of perseverance and continuous improvement in the world of professional hockey. Fans can look forward to following his development and potentially seeing him in a Penguins uniform in the near future. For the latest updates on Finn Harding and other Penguins prospects, be sure to bookmark THN – Pittsburgh Penguins on your Google News tab.
