On a Saturday afternoon in late June, Connor Clifton was at home with his family when he received unexpected news. The 30-year-old defenseman learned from Sabres GM Kevyn Adams that he was being traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins. Clifton expressed excitement about the move.
The Penguins acquired Clifton and the 39th overall pick from Buffalo in exchange for Conor Timmins and Isaac Belliveau. Penguins President of Hockey Operations and GM Kyle Dubas believes Clifton will strengthen their blue line.
“We just felt that Clifton, when at his best, brings an element that we have not maybe had on the back end in my time here,” Dubas said. “Which is, he’s a very highly competitive, physical guy that can be very difficult to play against.”
Clifton has played parts of seven NHL seasons with Buffalo and Boston since 2019. He led his team in hits over the last three seasons. However, he admits to struggling over the past two years and hopes to rediscover his form in Pittsburgh.
“I think my game, it’s kind of been at a standstill,” Clifton said. “I want to get back to my old self and how I play.”
Penguins assistant GM Jason Spezza recalls Clifton’s NHL debut on Nov. 16, 2018, where they ended up fighting during the game.
“I was just trying to survive my NHL debut and ended up getting a fight with him,” Clifton said.
Clifton looks forward to working with head coach Dan Muse, who has followed his career since college.
“He mentioned he wanted me to come in and find it right away,” Clifton said about Muse’s advice. “I’m excited for the opportunity.”
