Penguins/NHL
Restricted free agent Harry Zolnierczyk has agreed to a one year deal worth $550,000, the Penguins announced. The deal is a two-way contract. Zolnierczyk’s NHL’s salary last season was $600,000.
Zolnierczyk, 25, acquired in a trade with Anaheim last month, is expected to push for a final roster spot in training camp. The Penguins currently have $64,173,333 committed to 21 players for next season, including 12 forwards.
Zolnierczyk recorded 3 goals and 4 assists and 71 penalty minutes in 44 career NHL games with Philadelphia (2011-2013). He had 1 assist in 7 games played for the Flyers in 2013. Zolnierczyk didn’t appear in any NHL games with the Ducks last season.
SCOUTING REPORT
***Zolnierczyk is an excellent skater who likes to get his nose dirty. He’s a fringe player who the Penguins believe could push for a depth role on the 4th line or 13th/14th forward spot on the depth chart. He fits two attributes that the Penguins seek from role players, speed and being tenacious as he’s an effective hitter for a player of his size.
During the 2011-2012 season, Zolnierczyk had 67 hits in 37 games, his most extensive NHL action of his career.
