Pittsburgh Penguins: Top 10 prospects entering 2019

VANCOUVER, BC - JUNE 21: Samuel Poulin poses for a photo onstage after being selected twenty-one overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins during the first round of the 2019 NHL Draft at Rogers Arena on June 21, 2019 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. (Photo by Derek Cain/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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6. Justin Almeida

Acquired: 2018 fifth-round pick

Age: 20

Position: Center

Stats: 64 games, 33 goals, 78 assists, 111 points, 4 postseason games, 0 points (Moose Jaw Warriors, WHL)

Justin Almeida could be a late-round gem for the Penguins. They drafted him when he was 19 years old. Almeida rewarded them with an outstanding season, putting up 111 points. Yes, he did it when he was one of the older players in the WHL. But still, Almeida showed off his offensive upside.

Most importantly, he had a 111 point season despite playing most of the season with a hurt shoulder. Almeida was virtually invisible in the postseason, but I’ll give him a pass for two reasons. Firstly, most of his team was invisible – they only scored eight goals in four games. Secondly, Almeida’s injury was starting to nag him.

He’s not the best skater, so he’ll have to improve there. I think adding some strength to his frame would definitely help. Almeida’s overall game didn’t impress me, but then again, when you can drive offense like he can, you can justify his warts. His defense worries me, but he’s got the skill to make up for it.

I think he has the upside of a top-nine scoring forward. If paired with the right players, I could see him being a serviceable top-six forward. Almedia will likely be making the jump to the AHL this season and I’m excited to see how he does.

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