The Penguins have secured new signings on the opening day of free agency. Elliott and Trotman are expected to fill the roles of the eighth and ninth defensemen in the team. This positions them as potential call-ups from the AHL if any NHL defensemen get injured since the Penguins lack young prospects ready for NHL action in the upcoming 2018-19 season.
It is likely that at some point during the season, one of these players will see NHL ice time. Trotman appeared in three games for the NHL’s Pittsburgh team last season after playing 70 games in Wilkes-Barre.
Jimmy Hayes appears to be the most notable addition. The Penguins already have a roster full of NHL-quality forwards and contracts. Hayes, a 28-year-old player, had a strong season with the Florida Panthers in 2015-16 with 19 goals and 25 points, but his performance has declined in the last two years. He tallied 9 points in 33 games with the New Jersey Devils last season and was assigned to the AHL for part of the season. Hayes is also recognized for being the brother of Kevin Hayes, a skilled player for the New York Rangers.
Whether Hayes serves as depth or has a genuine shot at a significant NHL role remains to be seen. There is a possibility that Hayes could compete with Zach Aston-Reese for a spot on the fourth line at the start of the season. However, it is uncertain how much Hayes has left in the tank or if he still possesses the skill level required for the 2018-19 season.
