Penguins/NHL
Got a few emails this morning from readers asking about why 2009 second round pick Philip Samuelsson was released from his amateur contract. So I figured I’d post an update.
First thing Philip is not joining his Dad in the Swedish Elite League.
The plan for Philip (under the amateur contract) I’m told was always just a short term visit to get a feel for things. He was not scheduled to play for Wilkes Barre and will go back and finish school before joining the organization next fall.
Samuelsson’s entry level contract will begin next season.
Samuelsson who developed tremendously in two years at Boston College, is arguably the No. 2 or No. 3 defenseman in the Penguins system behind 2009 1st round pick Simon Despres.
Most observers have him rated No. 2 in front of Robert Bortuzzo whose another excellent prospect in the system.
A timetable to the NHL inside the organization is not yet established. He will spend at least a full season in Wilkes Barre.
Scouts have called him Boston College’s best defensive defenseman this past season and he has great defensive instincts inside the defensive zone.
Wilkes Barre also figures to have top prospect Simon Despres on their blueline next fall.
