Pittsburgh added some depth to its forward group on Thursday, agreeing to terms with ex-Panther Garrett Wilson on a one-year, two-way deal worth $575,000 at the NHL level.
More, from the Pens:
Wilson, 25, split the 2015-16 season between the Florida Panthers and their minor-league affiliate, the Portland Pirates. It was Wilson’s first extended NHL action, as he appeared in 29 contests with the Panthers.
During the 2016 Stanley Cup playoffs, the 6-foot-2, 199-pound Wilson suited up for all six of Florida’s opening-round matchups against the New York Islanders, picking up his first NHL point with an assist on Alex Petrovic’s game-winning goal in Game 4.
Wilson primarily plays left wing and while there aren’t many openings at that spot, his versatility could result in some minutes up front next season. Pens GM Jim Rutherford dealt away Beau Bennett to New Jersey, and has yet to come to terms with veteran center Matt Cullen.
If the Pens are looking for a physical presence next year, Wilson could be a good option. Despite only playing in 29 games for Florida last year, he finished seventh among forwards with 75 hits.