The Pittsburgh Penguins announced on Jun. 2 that they have re-signed forward Connor Dewar to a two-year contract extension following his productive performance since joining the team.
Kyle Dubas, President of Hockey Operations and General Manager, said, “He could’ve gone to the market, and probably done very well. But he wanted to be here. Different players represent the Penguins in different ways, but in his role and everything he’s about, he represents us perfectly.”
Dewar was acquired from the Toronto Maple Leafs at the 2024-25 trade deadline. Previously drafted by Minnesota in 2018, Dewar played parts of three seasons with the Wild before being traded to Toronto and later moving to Pittsburgh. After returning from shoulder surgery during his time with Toronto and going goalless in 31 games there, Dewar found success with Pittsburgh by scoring four goals in 17 games late in the season and earning a one-year contract extension last summer.
“Things didn’t really go well for me in Toronto. I came here, and found a bit of life,” Dewar said. “But I felt like I had to prove that I’m an NHL player. That was kind of my motivation this year.” He finished with a career-best 14 goals during the regular season for Pittsburgh and added two more goals over six postseason games.
Dewar credited his upbringing in The Pas, Manitoba, for instilling a competitive style: “We would see the same five communities every weekend at tournaments… So, I think that kind of helped me learn to compete every game.” His role expanded as he centered lines when needed due to injuries among teammates such as Blake Lizotte.
Dubas said about Dewar’s adaptability, “No matter what gets thrown at him, he takes it, runs with it… And it’s great to be low maintenance, but it’s especially great when you have low maintenance players that have a great impact on the team.” The Penguins are looking forward to seeing further growth from Dewar over at least another two years.
The Penguins are known for their history of Hall of Fame players and coaches as well as their consistent playoff appearances within National Hockey League competition, according to the official website. The franchise plays its home games at PPG Paints Arena in downtown Pittsburgh.
