In the first move after the Pittsburgh Penguins wrapped up their 2024 development camp, they announced the signing of forward Tanner Howe on Wednesday.
Howe, taken in the second round, 46th overall, at the NHL draft last month, signed a three-year, entry-level contract.
He had a strong showing during the development camp, displaying the calling cards that got him drafted — skill and a hard-nosed edge. In the camp-ending tournament Wednesday, he scored twice, both times from right in front of the net.
Part of his game is going hard on the forecheck and getting under opponents’ skin, including with his net-front presence. He told PHN during the camp that he relishes that part of his game.
Howe spent the past four seasons playing junior hockey for the Regina Pats, last season as team captain. He totaled 92 goals, 233 points in 207 career games. That includes leading the Pats last season with 68 games, 28 goals, 49 assists and 77 points.
Because he turns 19 in November, the 5-foot-10, 183-pounder could turn pro next summer — unless he first makes the Penguins roster and plays in more than nine NHL games in the coming season.
Howe is expected to be at training camp in September.