Connor Dewar Re-Signs With the Penguins Despite Not Receiving a Qualifying Offer

The Penguins have not been quiet so far as we are just hours into this year's free agent frenzy.

Earlier today, Dubas brought in former Bruins defenseman Parker Wotherspoon, shoring up his defensive depth.

The team has also reportedly signed forward Anthony Mantha although that deal has yet to be finalized.

Now, in a more surprising move, the Penguins have re-signed forward Connor Dewar.

Dewar appeared in 17 games for the Penguins this season after he was acquired by the club in a deal with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

He had 4 goals and 7 points in those 17 games, which isn't a lot, but it far out-paced his production with Toronto where he had just 3 assists in 31 contests.

Now, Penguins insider Josh Yohe is reporting that the team is expected to also re-sign former restricted free agent Phillip Tomasino, who, like Dewar, did not receive a qualifying offer from the team.

Tomasino was also acquired via trade last season, but he spent most of the season in Pittsburgh, appearing in 50 games and putting up 23 points including 11 goals.

Neither Dewar nor Tomasino figure to play major roles for the team next season, but both have proven to be reliable depth, so it is not surprising that Dubas would want to keep them around.

Signing them in free agency rather than issuing them qualifying offers was a risky strategy, but one that appears to have paid off.