Penguins annual development camp opens at UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex

CRANBERRY, Pa. — The Penguins' annual development camp started Wednesday afternoon at the UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex in Cranberry, and the team had one thing in mind: Find the next player to impact the team.

Jake Guentzel participated in the camp with scouts and player personnel just last year and went on to lead the NHL Playoffs in goals scored.

While that may be a lofty “goal” for the organization to replicate, it is extremely possible to find role players that could aid in another run at a championship.

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Zach Aston-Reese and Daniel Sprong are two prospects most have their eyes on in this year’s camp and rightfully so.

Aston-Reese led the NCAA in goals scored and points throughout the majority of last season at Northeastern, while Sprong netted 32 goals himself in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League.

Top draft pick this year, defenseman Zachary Lauzon (51st overall,) and goalie Filip Gustavsson will not participate in the four-day camp due to minor injuries.

Player development has been a critical part of the Penguins' success in recent years, and they hope to find a couple more pieces before week’s end.

Cox Media Group