The Pittsburgh Penguins have acquired forward Hendrix Lapierre from the Washington Capitals in exchange for two future draft picks, according to Pierre LeBrun of TSN.
In the deal finalized on Thursday, Pittsburgh sent a 2027 third-round selection and a 2028 fifth-round selection (originally belonging to the San Jose Sharks) to Washington to secure the young center. The move adds a high-upside playmaker to the Penguins' forward group as the team continues to retool its roster.
Hendrix Lapierre, 22, was originally selected by the Capitals in the first round of the 2020 NHL Entry Draft. He has proven to be a clutch performer in the professional ranks, notably winning the AHL playoff MVP honors during the Hershey Bears' 2024 Calder Cup championship run. During the 2023-24 NHL season, the Quebec native tallied 22 points in 51 games for Washington.
The trade represents a significant move within the Metropolitan Division, with the Penguins opting to sacrifice future draft capital for immediate help at the center position. For the Capitals, the move nets them two additional assets for upcoming drafts as they navigate their own roster transitions.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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