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Penguins Rising Star Recognized with Man of the Year Award
Photo credit: Russell LaBounty-USA TODAY Sports
Pittsburgh Penguins prospect Sam Poulin received a big honor from the American Hockey League today.
The Pittsburgh Penguins may have had a horrific season, but at least there are some bright spots for the team's fan to enjoy.
Specifically, the organization's farm teams have done exceptionally well this year.
Most notably, the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins of the American Hockey League are currently in third place in the Atlantic Division with a 39-22-7-1 record through 69 games.
The team has already clinched a playoff spot and are among the favorites to go on a deep playoff run this year.
A big part of the team's success this year has been due to Penguins goalie prospect Sergei Murashov, who appears to be the club's next starting goalie of the future.
Murashov has a 12-3 record in 16 games with the club since he was recalled from the Wheeling Nailers of the ECHL, who finished the regular season second in their division.
But as we all know hockey is a team sport, and Murashov is not the only reason for the AHL Penguins' success this year.
Another key player for the team has been forward Sam Poulin, a former 1st round pick of the Penguins in 2019.
Poulin has 19 goals and 43 points in 55 games at the AHL level this season, as well as an assist in 6 games in the NHL with the big club.
But Poulin's contributions go beyond the ice. In fact, he was named the IOA/American Specialty AHL Man of the Year for his contributions to the local community, specifically in regards to his advocacy for mental health.
"Throughout the year, Poulin has shared messages on his social media encouraging people to prioritize their mental health. He candidly shared the story of his own mental health break during his second pro season in 2022-23, using his platform to be a source of encouragement for others experiencing similar issues."
This is the kind of vulnerability and effort that makes for a good leader in the locker room.
Hopefully Poulin will continue to develop positively as he looks to become a regular with the NHL penguins next season.
| POLL | ||
AVRIL 16 | 168 ANSWERS Penguins Rising Star Recognized with Man of the Year Award Do you think Sam Poulin will make the opening night roster for Kyle Dubas' Pittsburgh Penguins next season? | ||
| Yes | 107 | 63.7 % |
| No | 61 | 36.3 % |
| List of polls | ||