The Pittsburgh Penguins have added another prospect to the organization, signing Linus Olund to a three-year entry-level contract. Olund will report to the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins on an amateur tryout, and start his ELC next season.
Olund went undrafted in his first two years of eligibility—despite being ranked the 70th best international skater in 2015—before being selected in the fifth round last June. In 51 games this season in the SHL he recorded 23 points, but is known for his solid two-way ability. A penalty killer with some offensive upside, he’s another late round pick who could make an impact in the Pittsburgh system.
Though he’ll join the AHL Penguins right away, his first taste of professional hockey in North America may have to wait until next season. Wilkes-Barre/Scranton is on the brink of elimination in their first round matchup again the Charlotte Checkers, down two games to none. The third game of the series is tomorrow, and it would be surprising to see Olund inserted into the lineup right away. Instead, he’ll likely have to make an impact in training camp in the fall.